Hosted in the historical Old Abattoir building in Bull Street, the Valletta Design Cluster is a hub for artistic and creative practice which brings together designers, makers, artists and other creative practitioners working across different disciplines.
Its shared environment supports the exchange of ideas, collaboration and peer learning, while giving members the independence to focus on their own work. In a span of only five years, the Cluster has already seen three designers and design organisations succeed to the extent that they eventually outgrew the space available at the Cluster, whilst others have strengthened their brand and established themselves within Malta’s creative industry.
The Cluster was designed as a platform for designers launching or building their creative practice. It provides members with access to studios, co-working areas, meeting rooms, exhibition spaces, a Foodspace (for prototyping and teaching) and a Makerspace equipped with digital fabrication tools including 3D printers, laser cutters and CNC machines.
Access to these tools and the free training provided allow designers to prototype, experiment and develop projects without investing in expensive equipment of their own.
Beyond the workspace, the Cluster hosts exhibitions, workshops, talks and artist residencies throughout the year, creating opportunities to connect with the wider creative community and engage with new ideas and practices.
For designers interested in joining, the Valletta Design Cluster offers different membership options to suit different stages of practice at highly affordable rates.
Temporary Studio Membership provides access to a private studio for a fixed period, making it ideal for designers working on specific projects, commissions or short-term creative residencies.
Annual Studio Membership offers a longer-term base for designers looking to establish their practice within the Cluster and become part of its creative community for up to three years.
Regular Membership is ideal for creative practitioners who do not require a dedicated studio but want access to the Valletta Design Cluster’s facilities, community, networking opportunities and year-round programme of events and activities.
Whether you’re launching a new practice, developing a product, or simply looking for a professional space in which to work, the Valletta Design Cluster offers the facilities to network and an environment to support your work.
Membership is more than access to a studio: It is an opportunity to work alongside other creatives, share ideas and develop your practice within one of Malta’s leading design hubs.
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