A Victorian warehouse referred to as the Engine Works and situated on the banks of the Forth & Clyde canal has recently been restored to create a multipurpose events venue.

Michael McDonagh and Adele Gahagan, a couple from Glasgow, have spent the last four years renovating the warehouse. The Engine Room, one of the largest spaces within the building, features an original Henry Royce crane, which references the building’s industrial past.
The Engine Works was built in 1837, and has retained many of the original Victorian features after refurbishment, and in spread over three levels. The building now includes multiple studios available for rent and catering facilities, with the main performance and events space being created to have the ability to host a multitude of events, performances and artists from across the disciplines. There is also a private garden overlooking the canal. Within the gardens, there is also an outbuilding that can be used as studio space.

Despite its recvent opening, five businesses have already taken space at the building, with over fifty weddings and celebrations booked for the coming year.

The Engine Works currently employs five full-time members of staff, with the hopes that the events team will expand as demand for the venue increases.

Michael McDonagh, owner of The Engine Works, said: “This building has deep roots within the community and we wanted to stay true to its heritage by preserving as many original features as possible. We’ve always seen the potential of this once abandoned building and are pleased to see others recognising its beauty too.

“This project really has been a labour of love, and we are pleased that we can finally share this wonderful building with the local community of Maryhill and help others to create lasting memories.”

 

The restoration was made possible in part because of a six-figure funding package from Royal Bank of Scotland.

Jack Malcolm, relationship manager at Royal Bank of Scotland, said: “Michael and Adele have dedicated themselves to this project over the last four years and it really shows. The building has been lovingly restored, with care taken to celebrate the building’s industrial past as well as create a modern, high-end space for users.

“The events spaces are already booking up and we’ve no doubt this venture will be a success. We wish Michael and Adele all the best with this unique development.”