OFFERING ADAPTABLE AND AFFORDABLE SPACE SINCE 2007

HISTORY

Grow Studios was founded in 2007 by two locals living and working in Hackney Wick. The studios are formed from two previously empty warehouses close to the overground train station, with one backing onto the Lea Navigation canal.

The basic premise was to make space for artists/maker friends in which units could be customised to meet their needs and most importantly, be affordable. The studios were borne out of a DIY self-organising ethos and purpose to create useful and sustainable spaces for its tenants.

Everyone pitched in creating the units, sharing tools, knowledge and helping each other to turn the space into bespoke workspaces. The self-build aspect and affordable rates meant tenants have diverse in backgrounds and are at various stages of their creative career. People just starting out can take a unit and start experimenting with their practice/projects. Some of the UK’s most well known graffiti and street artists have known Grow to be their creative home over the years.

At date, Grow Studios has had over 300 visual and street artists, photographers, filmmakers, 2D modellers, architects, clothing designers and makers, set & furniture designer makers, music producers within its studios.

AN ECOSYSTEM

Grow Studios is also where Grow, Hackney is located. Grow is an independent creative space, bar and kitchen, which operates as an experiment in ethical and sustainable business. 

Both Grow Studios and Grow Hackney is an ecosystem where studio holders share knowledge, skills and equipment as part of the sharing economy. Studio holders get offers from the bar and kitchen and hold events in the creative space.

ALICE BILLINGS HOUSE IN STRATFORD

We’re working with the Creative Land Trust (CLT) and LB Newham to provide studio space and outreach and engagement at Alice Billings House in Stratford.

Alice Billings House, is one of Newham’s most historic buildings located on Stratford’s historic High Street. This beautiful Grade II listed building was built in 1905-6 as firefighter’s accommodation for the West Ham Fire Brigade and makes a perfect space to repurpose into studios for artists to make their creative home. Find out more.

SUSTAINABILITY & COMMUNITY