London's New Fashion Residency Empowers Emerging Designers with Free Studios
A new fashion residency program has launched in London to help emerging designers grow their businesses. Backed by the Paul Smith Foundation, the scheme provides six designers with 18 months of rent-free studio space and expert support. It forms part of a wider effort to transform Smithfield Market into a major cultural hub.
The residency began in 2024, addressing a shortage of long-term support for early-stage fashion brands. Participants receive business mentoring alongside studio space in Smithfield Market, London’s historic wholesale meat market. The City of London plans to redevelop the site into an international destination for culture and commerce.
One of the first cohort, Pauline Dujancourt, used the program to expand her studio and hire more staff. Another designer, Paolo Carzana, secured seven new wholesale partners after completing the scheme. Despite the market’s planned relocation in 2028, the foundation aims to keep its base there. Later this year, the London Museum will also open at Smithfield Market, further boosting the area’s cultural appeal.
The residency offers designers a rare chance to develop their businesses without financial pressure. With studio space, mentoring, and industry connections, participants gain tools to scale their brands. The program’s success could shape the future of fashion support in the capital.
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