Stuck in a cramped, uninspiring art studio space? Dreaming of a creative haven surrounded by nature? Look no further! In this blog post, we’ll delve into the inspiring journey of Art at Eight, an artist on the Isle of Skye, who transformed their artistic vision into a reality with a bespoke modular studio from us. Discover how our innovative approach and commitment to client needs helped Art at Eight create the perfect space to bring their art to life.
How would you describe your art?
I am an illustrative artist, working on the Isle of Skye, my paintings are mainly produced in acrylic. I am inspired by animals, nature, land & sea and I tend to see the world in texture, pattern, colour and light, interpreting what I see into illustrative and more light-hearted scenes from where I live.
what size and layout did you choose from your art studio?
Size of studio chosen was a 20 foot High Cube container, a 20 foot was the maximum size we could offload. The advantage of using a High Cube container, made the interior of the art studio feel more spacious.
How long did it take from ordering the unit to receiving it?
The order was placed on the 8th of December 2023, and the studio was completed on the 8th of March 2024. Within the duration was Christmas and New Year shutdown period.
Why opt for a modular build?
Our initial plan was to renovate a stone byre into an art studio but we failed to engage any builders for the refurbishment. We investigated having a timber insulated cabin built as an art studio but felt that securing the site erection trades would once again be an issue. Whereas a container conversion into an art studio, all the construction, interior fitting out and electrical installation was carried out offsite and progress was not delayed by the weather. Basically, Iron and Pine created a “Plug and Play” art studio to an exceptionally high standard to our bespoke specification.
What were important features to have in your art studio?
Maximum wall space for displaying of artwork, installation of a ceiling track lighting system, installation of artwork hanging system, good level of thermal insulation, energy efficient heating, the exterior appearance of the studio.
Has the unit been easy to maintain and clean?
Externally we chose oiled timber cladding which will require reoiling every two years to maintain it’s appearance. Internally the quality of the floor covering with be easy to clean and will be hardwearing.
Why DID YOU CHOOSE Iron & Pine?
We looked at other suppliers for converting a shipping container into an art studio, the reason we chose Iron and Pine for our art studio was you could see from their previous conversions that they were finished to a very high standard. Having established contact with Iron and Pine we were impressed by their proactive support of our enquiry questions about the conversion process, and the fact that we were able to a have a fully bespoke conversion with advice freely given as required in the design stage. The whole project was very well managed, Art at Eight is based on the Isle of Skye, so we had video project calls and project updates with supporting images and videos.
Would you recommend US?
Art at Eight would have no hesitation in recommending Iron & Pine for any type of conversion, their support was there from our first contact, during the conversion phase and post delivery of the studio. Iron and Pine listen to what their clients want and delivery exceptional conversions.
Do you have any tips for other artists considering a modular art studio build?
Installation of a ceiling track lighting and artwork hanging systems during the conversion phase. Take the opportunity to look inside an empty shipping container to help to visualise the space and potential for converting a shipping container into your own bespoke studio.
