Deptford Foundry

Spring 2019 saw SFSA launch the only studio project of scale to open within Zone 2 of London in the last decade.

Safeguarding the future for generations to come - SFSA has a 250 year leasehold at Deptford Foundry offering 85 purpose-built studios and workspaces.

Justine Simons OBE, Deputy Mayor for Culture and the Creative Industries, said: “I am delighted to see the brand new affordable studios open in Deptford – this is a major milestone in delivering the Mayor’s first-ever Creative Enterprise Zones and creating vital affordable workspaces in the capital.”

Reasons why

‘The Mayor of London’s study into artists’ workspace found that 3,500 artists in London are likely to lose their places of work in the next five years and with 35,000 graduates emerging from London’s Art & Design schools every year, demand for studio space is ever increasing across the city.’ - GLA

“The continuing pressures of the commercial and residential property market, recent government changes leading to liberalisation of planning regulations, the lack of long-term building leases being offered that our sector can realistically afford, the increasing demands for similar workspace by other more lucrative sectors, combined, these factors are all having a flattening effect on the provision of affordable studio workspace for artists and makers in the capital.

It’s now time for a strategic change. For SFSA to hold and own property for use as permanent affordable studio space. To secure our own buildings, no longer under threat due to short-term leases with landlords considering more profitable uses of property assets. Creating perpetuity in what we do, securing low-cost space for artists and makers now and for generations to come, and bolstering a resilient future for SFSA.” - Matthew Wood, Founder SFSA

“As a ceramicist, it is almost impossible to find an affordable studio space in London - especially one with a sink and a decent power supply. Most available spaces are refurbished offices or warehouses, which explains the hefty price tag and the limitations on what these spaces can be used for. To be able to work in a purpose-built studio like Deptford Foundry has made it possible for me to make my living as a maker. I love having other makers and artists around. Because of the affordable rates, there is a lot more diversity in backgrounds and practice - and that breeds creativity.” - Janneke De Jong, Ceramics. Studio AR01.

SFSA opened Deptford Foundry in spring 2019. 30,000 sqft of space comprising of 85 affordable purpose-built ground and first floor studios, now fully occupied with over 115 artists and makers supported by a further 40+ employees, apprentices and interns.

2022 Practitioners on site are working in the areas of:

The project sits within a 316 home and mix-used scheme on Arklow Road, Deptford. The developer was Anthology, Architect, Rolf Judd and main contactor Sisk. The ambition was for the site to become home to a diverse variety of local artists and makers, adding to the social and cultural value of the new residential development. This has now been achieved and recognised not only pan London but internationally.

Deptford Foundry was featured in the art philanthropy section of the TEFAF 2020 Art Market Report

SFSA Deptford Foundry was a recipient from the Mayor of London’s Good Growth Fund grant, helping towards the fit out cost for the project.

A Director’s perspective: a loan to protect our future SFSA co-owner Nichole Herbert Wood talks to Charity Bank about the creation of affordable studios in London, the challenges the sector faces and a pathway towards securing the future.

Header image: Leslyn Fraser, Shoe Accessory Maker, Freelance Footwear Designer - Credit Amanda Rose Photography
Footer Image: SFSA Deptford Foundry - Credit Amanda Rose Photography