Novel use for former Wandsworth Library as new home for artists

Over the next two years, the building is intended to be gradually transformed into at least 14 affordable artist studios. Subject to funding and planning permission, the plans also include a public exhibition space, a community space and live/work artist studios. 

WIP Space is an artist-run organisation providing studios, exhibitions and community spaces in historic buildings across London and has a long-standing connection with Wandsworth Town. 

 

 

The two-year lease is part of a phased approach with a view for a longer plan in the future.  
  
With an existing base in Wentworth House on Dormay Street, this will be WIP Space's second site in Wandsworth Town and third in London. At Wentworth House, the organisation has brought another historic building back into use as 17 studios, two live/work spaces, a gallery, a project space, a community meeting space and an artist residency programme. 

 

  
Mark Nader, founder of WIP Space Studios, said: "For many years, the library was a place where the community came to learn, gather and create. We're delighted to give this much-loved building a new life as a home for artists, and a space that local people can visit, take part in and enjoy. By taking on its renovation, we can bring a historic council building back into use and keep it in use for the community. Wentworth House has shown what's possible when a historic building is opened up to the creative community, and we're excited to bring that to Garratt Lane." 

 

 

  
Councillor Lynsey Hedges, Cabinet Member for Opportunity said: “Many residents will have been curious to see what would happen to the former Wandsworth Library building. This is an exciting opportunity to support artists with much needed studio space and cement Wandsworth Town as a growing cultural hub.” 

 

The new Wandsworth Town Library opened it's doors in early 2024 and welcomes the public from Tuesday to Saturday.