New Studio

Unit 6 The Mill Centre Coolaney Co Sligo

Ok- I never thought I’d be here. When I built my backyard studio, I thought I’d be there for life but then I had to build another shed - and then I had to start renting office space while still using all the other spaces. It got to a point where everything is everywhere and I’m trying my best to be efficient and have a workflow but the set up is impossible. I had been admiring a space in Coolaney for years and eventually made the decision to ‘push a door’ and see if it opened.

So meet Unit 6, The Mill Centre in Coolaney. If you’re familiar with the village, it’s the back unit on the right hand side facing the hill to Rockfield. It’s an amazing space with a small stream just outside the front door and at the end of the gorgeous Coolaney riverwalk. It’s taken about 18 months since I purchased the unit to finally have the development begin and it’s SO EXCITING! I am trying to be so patient but I’m beside myself ;D

It hasn’t been without snags- there has been A LOT of paperwork, applications, solicitors, planning permission, tendering etc etc but I am very privileged to have been approved for a grant with Leader to help out with costs. There will probably be lots more things to overcome but seeing it all come together is allowing me to believe that the dream is becoming a reality. Luckily I have some amazing friends and mentors locally that have helped me along the process and I don’t know where I would be without the support from my amazing family- my folks, husband and kids.

Most people who have known about the new studio ask the same question:- will you open a shop? The answer is hopefully eventually. The space is going to be mostly dedicated to fitting the needs of my current business as a well functioning workshop but my planning permission does include a small provision for retail. My immediate goal is to get settled in before that happens.

Anyway- I’ll update soon with more progress pictures!