The purpose of this Competition is to arrive at the architectural concept for the conversion and retrofitting of one of the floors of Hope Mill into renatble artist studios that will be best in terms of its planning, architectural, functional, aesthetic, and operational aspects, and recognise the site's nature, status, and location.

The space is located on the fifth storey of a Georgian cotton mill, with a developable floor area of 6000 sq ft. (557 m2). The storey is shared with the offices of FC United.

The primary function of the space is workshop space for artists. These may include painters, printmakers, photographers, jewellers, woodturners etc. and larger collaborative enterprises.

The studios will be let cheaply to individual and collective groups of artists.

The proposal may benefit from an area set aside for public exhibition. A space for the artists to exhibit their work in a more appropriate setting than their workshop area may be a favourable feature.

Each scheme should also include an area available to all artists-in-residence to increase social interaction. This space should have kitchen facilitites.

Adeaquate sanitary facilities should also be considered. The current services are located in the South corner, and new services should utilise the existing water and waste plumbing.

There will a budget of approximately £5,000. This figure is dependant on funding. easa010 retain the right to work with the winning entrants to adjust the design, should this be necessary.

The conversion and retrofitting will be undertaken by mainly untrained manpower at easa010. The workforce will be students of architecture that are participating in easa010.