Old Market Manor, Makers Space
d e s i g n / c r e a t e / c o l l a b o r a t e
Imagine a creative environment where no one is limited by circumstance, a place of opportunity, discovery and creative collaboration thriving deep in the heart of an Bristol's urban community. Old Market Manor is a 7000 SQ FT, factory situated in the Old Market area of St Philips. It is a community-built, communit
y-led space, a design centre of excellence built by people who are dedicated and passionate
about making. Following our own creative rhythm and often going against the grain, we will create a space that will work like the ‘hot desk’ collaborative system that has become so essential for the professional Freelance creative sector; a
space where practical makers can share the skills of their craft and train, inspire and mentor. Our ambition is to create a sustainable business model for both the community and the environment, to provide affordable access
to machinery, training and vocational classes across multiple disciplines. Old Market Manor will provide an affordable solution for those who require workshop, studio or desk space, but can't afford or don't need to own one. It will give designers and makers access to temporary or permanent bench spaces, affordable by the day/week or month, for short and long term projects, and will also accommodate longer term business with
resident spaces for them to base and incubate their business in a inspiring and creative venue. The facility will offer a joinery and furniture making workshop, with all of the
machines and equipment found in commercial business, as well as Metal fabrication, Upholstery,Jewellery making, digital design, CNC cutting and 3D Printing. Old Market Manor also houses office space and co working desk space and will plans to have a small cafe towards the end of the year. We will work alongside local colleges and universities, nurturing talent and encouraging progression in skills and craft through the dedicated support of our Fellowship and Members. We intend also to advise business start-ups and burgeoning collectives, expanding our technical and vocational training to entrepreneurial support through the provision of affordable yet professional sector training. This is not a unique project. A number of successful makers spaces exist in the USA and there are a number of facilities in London with a similar, successful business model. We have recognised a need in Bristol for this industry/business model, one that not only provides space, but also offers a community and provides training, employment and professional mentoring at every level of engagement. By investing in this way we are committing wholeheartedly to both the
present and the future, engendering skills and wellbeing for both the city and its people, contributing to Bristol’s vital backbone – it’s ever-growing creative economy.
