Islington Council’s Affordable Workspaces scheme provides local businesses with the space they need to grow. Rather than rent, the council asks these businesses to contribute social value to the local area. This can involve a range of activities, such as volunteering, teaching, skill-sharing, and providing workspace to up-and-coming freelancers and small businesses.  

This setup encourages a more communal way of working, where entrepreneurs gain access to vital equipment, collaborate with others, and provide amazing opportunities to residents.  

One shining example from the scheme is Fashion Enter, based on Fonthill Road, where sustainability meets style. We spoke to Beth Davy-Day, Creative Director, about festive upcycling, community spirit, and why affordable workspace matters. 

How is Fashion Enter celebrating Christmas this year?

We’re running upcycling workshops to help people create beautiful, sustainable gifts and decorations. Our final session for 2025 is on 16th December, you can make stockings, tree ornaments, or transform pre-loved garments into something special. It’s all about creativity and reducing waste.

Why is sustainability so important to you?

Christmas is wonderful, but there’s a lot of pressure to buy new when it comes to presents, and that creates huge amounts of waste. We champion upcycling because it saves money and the planet. Fashion Enter has won Draper’s Sustainable Fashion Awards, and we’re proud to lead by example.

How do you celebrate Christmas as a team?

We have a potluck party where everyone brings a dish from their culture, it’s a lovely way to share traditions. In previous years, we’ve made ponchos for the homeless and volunteered at soup kitchens. Giving back is part of who we are.

What advice would you give someone starting out with sewing and upcycling?

Start small! Add a lace trim or swap buttons from a charity shop. You don’t need expensive equipment – just a needle and thread. Our workshops are perfect for beginners because we guide you through every step. 

How has the Affordable Workspace scheme helped Fashion Enter?

It’s been transformative. It’s allowed us to work closely with local designers who have amazing talent but lack equipment and a place to be creative. We get to nurture them and help them reach their full potential. It’s opened doors for community projects like these workshops and allowed us to engage with schools, building the next generation of cutters, stitchers, and designers. 

What’s your favourite festive upcycle this year?

I made bows for my Christmas tree from old ribbon! Simple stitches, big impact. 

What is it like being located in Finsbury Park?

I might be biased because I live here, but Finsbury Park is such a fantastic place to live and work. It’s a creative hub with a rich history of fashion manufacturing. In decades past, on Saturdays, manufacturers on Fonthill Road would sell their “Cabbage stock” – an industry term in the rag trade for garments made from fabric that was surplus to requirements. People would queue up for these cheaper looks for their Saturday night outfits! It’s inspiring to keep that fashion heritage alive. 

Read more about Fashion Enter and sign up to an upcoming workshops.

Learn more about Affordable Workspaces.