Hackney artists’ studios to open at former Matchbox factory

Block B of Matchmakers Wharf, Homerton, which includes 49 purpose-built affordable artists' studios. Image: Acme Studios

This summer won’t just see swarms of athletes heading to east London, but a different kind of crowd as well: fine artists.

Matchmakers Wharf, built on the site of the former Lesney Matchbox Toys Factory in Homerton, will consist of over 200 homes, offices, shops, commercial space and 49 purpose-designed artists’ studios. The new artists’ studios are set to open next month.

The studios will be owned and managed by Acme, a London-based charity which provides affordable studio space, residencies and awards for non-commercial fine artists.

Matchmakers Wharf studios are the first purpose-built, affordable studios in Hackney and will be a permanent resource for the borough.

Jack Fortescue from Acme Studios said: “Homerton is sort of off people’s radar and hasn’t had the regeneration in the same way as other areas of Hackney. We want to ensure that no matter how gentrified Hackney becomes, there will always be affordable studios for artists.”

Studio rents start at £220 a month for permanent, high-quality, purpose-built, accessible, self-contained artists’ studios. At £12 per sq ft per year, studios are roughly one third cheaper than they would be on the open commercial market. Priority for the studios will be given to Hackney residents.

Jonathan Harvey, Chief Executive of Acme Studios said: “Acme Studios is committed to ensuring the long-term future of affordable studios in London. We have had a presence in Hackney for almost 40 years and are delighted we will be continuing to provide high-quality studios at affordable rent levels in the borough.”

Matchmakers Wharf Studios have been developed by Acme in partnership with Telford Homes Plc.

To register an interest in Matchmakers Wharf Studios, visit the Acme website.