A pilot project from the UK’s only UNESCO City of Craft, supporting local makers and breathing new life into the city centre.
Closing date: 14 Apr 2026
Perth, the UK’s first and only UNESCO City of Craft, is proud to announce the launch of the Make Room Open Call, inviting craft makers from across Perth & Kinross to apply for a free 6-12 week lease of a fully equipped city‑centre creative space.
Make Room is a new pilot initiative designed to support makers while exploring innovative uses for vacant shop units. Successful applicants will gain free access to a flexible, public‑facing unit that can be used as a retail shop, working studio, gallery, workshop venue, meeting room, office, or collaborative space.
This pilot aims to energise Perth’s creative sector, strengthen the visibility of local talent, and contribute to a vibrant and culturally active city centre.
Make Room is located at 19 Princes Street, Perth.
Each free‑let space includes:
- Moveable cabinets, tables and seating
- Tea and coffee facilities, small fridge, microwave and kitchen sink
- WC
- Free utilities and broadband
- No setup or material fees
- No commission taken on retail sales
Tenants must provide their own payment method for sales.
The open call is available to applicants who:
- Live and/or work in Perth & Kinross
- Are primarily practising craft makers (creatives with a focus on fine art, illustration, painting and drawing do not fit the criteria for this particular opportunity)
- Have an active craft‑based business
- Have a retail element in their project plan
- Hold Public Liability Insurance (or agree to obtain it before the lease begins)
- Apply either as individuals or as a group (all group members must meet the criteria)
Craft definition: craft is the creation of a functional object which is primarily handmade, replicable, and involves teachable skillsets. Functional means the piece can be worn, eaten/drunk from, used as a tool, etc. For this reason, fine art, painting, illustration, etc., are not considered craft in this context, as the output is expressive and decorative, but the skills cannot generally be taught or replicated.
This opportunity is delivered through Perth’s UNESCO City of Craft designation. Amongst other priorities, our remit it to promote craft and create opportunities for craft makers in Perth & Kinross. We actively support and celebrate all forms of creativity from all over the world, especially as an active member of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network. However, Make Room’s remit is specifically for crafters in Perth & Kinross.
Selected makers must:
- Open the space to the public on Saturdays and advertise regular opening hours for the lease duration
- Maintain an engaging window display
- Act as ambassadors for local creativity and culture
- Participate in project evaluation
- Engage positively with the local creative community
Applications will be judged by a panel with a focus on project quality, feasibility, eligibility, and timing. Where multiple applicants are suited to the same period, a fair allocation or random selection process may be used.
Make Room leases will run on a 6–12 week rotational model, with a waiting list in operation. The first lease is expected to begin in April/May 2026, with a second planned for August 2026 (dates may vary depending on final scheduling).
The deadline for the first round of open calls is 1PM, 14th April 2026.
Enquiries: PerthCraftCity@gmail.com
Disclaimer:
These listings are uploaded by makers, places, organisations and the Craft Scotland team. Please check the organiser's website for the latest update on the event, Craft Scotland is not responsible for incorrect details.
