Case Studies

Exchange visit to Out of the Blue Drill Hall

Celebrating 30 Years!

A group of people smiling on a mezzanine level, with the lower floor and art spaces in the distance.

Since 2004, this historic venue has served as the beating heart of Out of the Blue, deeply embedded in the cultural fabric of Leith with its rich historical significance. Thanks to careful and sustainable restoration, this former military building has been reimagined as a dynamic arts and cultural centre. It now features artists’ studios, rehearsal and performance spaces, exhibition areas, and a popular café, offering a welcoming environment where contemporary arts thrive. Visitors can experience a vibrant mix of creative innovation, enjoy the unique atmosphere, and connect with others through art, conversation, and food.

As part of the exchange, we also visited Out of the Blueprint, a thriving social enterprise. This creative hub blends print production for trade with workshops, training, and artistic projects, supporting exhibitions and publications—a truly inspiring fusion of creativity and commerce.

Learning Outcomes

  • Understanding Cultural Preservation and Regeneration: Learn how historical buildings like the Drill Hall can be sustainably restored and repurposed into thriving contemporary arts and community hubs, maintaining their cultural significance.
  • Exploring Creative Social Enterprises: Gain insight into how Out of the Blueprint successfully integrates print production, workshops, and creative training to support both local artists and commercial ventures.
  • Appreciating Community-Driven Arts Initiatives: Discover the role of Out of the Blue Drill Hall as a participatory and inclusive space that fosters artistic expression, collaboration, and engagement within the Leith community.

"The Out of the Blue Drill Hall serves as a vibrant, community-centre hub in Leith, dedicated to fostering artistic expression, collaboration, and social engagement. Its participatory approach ensures that the space remains inclusive and accessible to all, reflecting the diverse needs and voices of the community. We got the feel while on the exchange that the Hall served as a safe and judgement-free space for artists and creatives to manage their own time and create work that improves the area they live in."