The Mill which is of classic Victorian industrial design dates from 1880. It was originally built by a consortium of lace manufacturers on a co-operative basis, whereby each manufacturer was entitled to a number of “Lace Standings” dependent upon their financial contribution. Today, the Mill now houses a number of well-known furniture manufacturers with on site showrooms supplying major national stores and a number of other showroom and office occupiers. Whilst the UK lace industry has now mainly moved overseas, a small but vibrant lace industry still remains on site, focusing on high quality short run supplies of narrow band lace trim for the furniture and garment industry.

The first floor comprises 5,000 sq ft that has been converted into 18 self contained artists’ studios linked to a gallery area and an exhibition space. In its first year it is already beginning to achieve national and regional recognition for its cutting-edge approach and work and has established close links with local councils and universities. It is the only studio in the county to offer a sponsored arts graduate space.

The purchase of the freehold has secured the long-term future of the studio in a market where many other studio groups are struggling to survive and will help to support Nottingham’s growing reputation as a major cultural and arts centre.
The ground floor comprising 4,000 sq ft is currently being refurbished by the owners to provide high-quality mainly open plan office accommodation with extensive on site car parking. Agents, Bruton Knowles consider it to be ideal for architects, commercial designers, call centres and other office and showroom users seeking unusual and interesting accommodation with excellent parking and communications. It can also accommodate an element of more traditional workshop/manufacturing/workshop use which adds to its flexibility.

James Bailey, partner at Bruton Knowles in Nottingham explains that: ‘The purchase of the interest will not only secure the future of the studios, but also provide the clients with a very valuable long-term investment. The ground floor is being offered at a competitive £6.25 per sq ft which makes it very attractive by comparison with similar accommodation in the area.”

He adds: “The refurbishment will restore this section of the Mill to its original condition and it is intended to retain features of its industrial past as part of a tasteful modernisation of a classic Victorian building.”

Bruton Knowles is also instructed to offer another ground floor unit in the mill which comprises 3,750 sq ft of un-refurbished accommodation suitable for workshops, storage and offices. Again the rent is a very competitive £2.25 per sq ft and the unit is available on flexible terms.