Swindon design agency Hot Pepper is to create a studio, art gallery and design shop in Old Town to showcase local and international artists.
The firm is to relocate from its base at Wyvern Theatre to the vacant 1,500 sq ft unit in Victoria Road – the latest arrival in the area as it undergoes a revival as a centre for independent retailers and businesses.
As well as acting as a studio for the agency, whose services span brand identity, app and web development, film and animation and illustration, the retail until will sell interior products and gifts alongside art works. 
The Swindon office of property agents Alder King, which let the building to Hot Pepper on a five-year lease, said it boasted a wealth of character. The unit was previously occupied by furniture and interior décor firm The Little Rose Cottage but has been vacant since the end of last year.
Hot Pepper art director Mark Pepperall said: “We chose Victoria Road as the base not only for our studio, but also for the new gallery as the area is thriving with a wide range of independent businesses making Old Town the obvious choice.
“We see the gallery/design shop becoming a part of the cultural hub and look forward to welcoming a vast array of clients from the surrounding area and further afield following the refurbishment of the building.”
Martin Baker of Alder King added: “We are delighted to have concluded lease negotiations with Hot Pepper and wish them every success with their new business venture. The property generated a good level of interest from occupiers underpinning the desirability of Old Town as a location for all nature of businesses.”
Pictured: The Old Town building that will become Hot Pepper Design’s new studio and gallery
