Artists are the engine of cultural life. Engine Room is designed to support that activity by providing affordable exhibition and event space for artists, cultural practitioners and collectives in London.
Based at Acme Propeller Factory, the programme responds to the growing challenges artists face in accessing space to present work. By offering flexible, affordable access without curatorial restrictions, Engine Room creates opportunities for experimentation, connection and public exchange.
About Engine Room
Located within Acme Propeller Factory, Engine Room takes its name from the building's industrial heritage and the role artists play in driving cultural life forward.
The programme provides affordable access to exhibition and event space for artist-led activity, supporting experimentation, public presentation, learning and exchange.
It is equally open to Acme tenants and non-tenants, as well as student groups supported by educational institutions and non-profit arts and cultural organisations. Applicants may use the space to develop or present work and explore new ways of working with audiences and communities.
In line with its charitable remit, Acme is committed to making the space accessible to a diverse range of users, particularly those who may face financial or structural barriers to accessing high-quality cultural space in London, and will be taking a non-curatorial approach to the allocation of hire space.
What can happen here?
Engine Room supports a broad range of artist-led and cultural activity, including:
- Artist-led solo and group exhibitions
- Exhibitions by educational institutions
- Freelance curator-led exhibitions and projects
- Exhibitions organised by not-for-profit arts and cultural organisations
- Workshops, crit groups, symposia and courses
Proposals not considered are:
- Private functions, including parties and weddings
- Commercial hires such as fashion shows and shoots, filming, advertising or promotional videos
- Film, photography or commercial content production not related to the exhibition
- Events that involve amplified sound that carries beyond the closed door of the hire space
- One day events that do not form part of an approved exhibition booking
- Activities that cannot be safely delivered within the space
- Proposals without adequate staffing, supervision or invigilation Activities that do not comply with Acme’s Health and Safety requirements
- Activities that may present legal, safeguarding or reputational risks to Acme
Fair access to space
Applications are assessed for eligibility, suitability for the space and the ability to be delivered safely and responsibly.
Acme does not assess applications on the basis of artistic quality, subject matter or curatorial preference.
Where demand exceeds available dates, bookings are allocated through a random selection process, ensuring a fair and transparent approach to access.
Inside Engine Room
A flexible ground-floor exhibition and event space within Acme Propeller Factory.
Features include:
- Step-free access
- 24-hour building access
- Ceiling-mounted projector
- Integrated sound system
- Three power sockets
- Bike storage
- Close to New Cross, Deptford and Deptford Bridge stations
Download floor plan and measurements here.
Programme schedule
Engine Room offers:
- 2-week bookings
- 3-week bookings
- 4-week bookings
Available from November 2026 to Summer 2027.
Cost
Hire costs are £650 per week, plus a refundable £150 key, damage and clearance deposit. Full payment is required 28 days before the start of the hire period.
Access information
Engine Room is committed to providing an accessible environment for participants and visitors.
- Ground-floor location
- Step-free access
- Accessible application formats available on request
- Public transport links nearby
Next steps
If you wish to apply, you will need to submit an application and demonstrate eligibility.
If you would like to receive the application information in an accessible PDF or Word document, please contact [email protected].
If you have any questions about the programme or application process, please get in touch at [email protected].
You can explore previous events held in the Engine Room (previously known as the Hub) below.