Wembley Park Expansion 2024 — Second Floor Studios & Arts

Quintain doubles affordable artist space for Second Floor Studios & Arts at Wembley Park

Press Release 22.02.2024

Quintain, the award-winning developer behind Wembley Park, is strengthening its ties with Second Floor Studios & Arts as it confirms a new lease which will see the number of affordable artist workspaces more than double at Wembley Park, consisting of 56 studios, housing 80 artists.

The partnership between Quintain and Second Floor Studios & Arts began in 2016, with the first studios opened in 2018. This initial phase saw 6,880 sq. ft. of studio space built at Wembley Park. A long-term partnership, starting out as a ‘Section 106’ planning requirement, has already successfully ensured over 60% of the artists and makers are residents from the local London Borough of Brent.

The new lease will see the second phase of the affordable workspace launch, with a further 8,293 sq. ft. of studio space later this year, 25% more than required under Quintain’s planning permission. A total of 30 studios are to be provided and will be purpose-built for the visual arts, becoming home to local artists, makers and designers. Ground floor and first floor studios are provided along with a breakout area where artists and designers can come together and exchange ideas as well as a gallery wall where artwork, ceramics and designs can be displayed. All spaces are fully wheelchair accessible.

James Saunders, CEO of Quintain commented:
“It has been a privilege to work with Second Floor Studios & Arts to successfully support and boost the local creative community. We are committed to establish Wembley Park as a place for art and culture and have ensured that affordable space is provided so that local creatives can thrive.”

Nichole Herbert Wood, CEO of Second Floor Studios & Arts said:
“I am heartened to see the Quintain partnership that we have established since 2016 go from strength to strength, supporting an additional 40 artists. Thanks to backing from Quintain and Brent Council, we are pleased to provide affordable, long-term and high-quality studio spaces for artists which I believe is vital in order to protect the creative and cultural aspects of London and its communities.”

Councillor Shama Tatler, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Planning, Regeneration and Growth at Brent Council said: "Our borough is brimming with creative talent and we're committed to supporting local creatives to thrive in their hometown. Partnering with Quintain and Second Floor Studios & Arts, we're delighted to be delivering 30 additional affordable workspaces in Wembley Park supporting even more local people to flourish.”

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What is means to have a studio at Wembley Park:

‘Having a studio in Wembley has been life changing for me. It has allowed me the space to create freely in a supportive environment that has been both inspiring and enriching. My studio is light and airy and incredibly good value for money. I really value the SFSA community and am proud to be a part of it.’ Shilpa Bilimoria, Fashion Designer Maker.

'My studio is my sanctuary, it's a place where I am able to bring my vision, sustainably to life. Having affordable, safe, spaces to work in for creatives is vital to generating community, and belonging in an area. Being a local resident, the offering in Wembley brings a new facet not only to us, the creatives, artists, but those that live in the area, pass by and around the spaces daily.' Emma O’Rourke, Painter.

“As a ceramic artist, having a studio space is vital as it is a very messy practice! I am lucky to have had a private studio with SFSA for many years now, which has been crucial in the development of my work. As a self-taught ceramicist that has created a career through this passion, a studio means I can devote as much time necessary to my practice.” Rula Sayegh, Ceramicist.