Middlesbrough's New Creative Hub Opens Doors This September!

The Auxiliary Project Space in Middlesbrough is preparing to open its doors in September after a delay. This new creative studio for artists and musicians is located in a large, two-storey warehouse that has been completely redeveloped. The building features corrugated panels, a prominent service entrance with a dark grey door, and glass double doors at the reception. Conference spaces on the ground floor have large windows, and a tall lamp post stands near the entrance, making the site easy to spot.

The project cost £1. 6 million and includes 27 studios, a co-working area, a gallery, an experimental music venue, and a community garden. The Auxiliary Project aims to support artists and musicians in the region by providing them with a space to showcase their work and develop their skills. Artist director Liam Slevin hopes the space will become a place where people can discover contemporary art for the first time, where artists feel free to take risks, and where communities feel a sense of ownership. He wants the studio to be a place where new ideas can grow and where everyone feels welcome.

Before the redevelopment, the warehouse was in poor condition, with peeling white paint and fences around it. There are two main hangars, one set back from the road, and the back hangar was missing a large section of wall under the roof. A pedestrian crossing is located in front of the warehouse, making it accessible to visitors. Liam Slevin explained that The Auxiliary has always focused on creating opportunities for artists to make ambitious work, build sustainable careers, and connect with local communities. After years of working in temporary and often challenging spaces, the team is proud to finally open a permanent home for artists in Tees Valley. The Auxiliary works with over 100 artists each year through exhibitions and events, showcasing regional talent alongside internationally recognized artists.