Opportunity Knocks: 99 King St W Extension & New Artist Spots Available!

Written by

We have some exciting news for the downtown Kitchener arts community! Our “Meanwhile Space” project at 99 King Street West has been officially extended. We are now inviting artists to join this unique shared studio residency through August 30th, 2026.

If you’ve been looking for a bright, professional, and central place to anchor your practice this summer, now is the time to apply.

The Vision: A Suite Built for Creativity

In partnership with Lowland Properties Group, we’ve taken a dynamic vacant suite on the third floor of 99 King and transformed it into a collaborative haven for visual artists.

This isn’t just a room; it’s a dedicated environment designed to help you connect with other local creators while maintaining your own focused workspace.

Space Details at a Glance

  • The Footprint: Each artist is allotted a 14’ x 14’ workspace.

  • The Vibe: Classic urban loft with plenty of natural light, high ceilings, and downtown energy.

  • Amenities: The suite is equipped with a dedicated paint sink, full heating and air conditioning, and gender-neutral washrooms.

  • Access: Work on your own schedule with secure 24/7 FOB access.

  • The Walk-up: Please note, this beautiful third-floor space is accessed via 44 stairs (no elevator), perfect for those who don’t mind a bit of a daily climb!

Affordable & Accessible

We know that price is a major barrier for many artists. To keep this space accessible, the cost is just $330.00 per month (all-inclusive).

Claim One of the Final 3 Spots

We currently have 3 out of 5 spots available for artists practicing visual arts, media arts, or other “quiet” creative disciplines.

Because this is a meanwhile space residency, these spots are available specifically through August 30th, 2026. Whether you have a specific project you need to wrap up or you’re looking to kickstart a new body of work this summer, 99 King is ready for you.

Ready to move in? Apply Here

Need Support? If you have questions about the layout, accessibility, or the application process, please reach out to our team at coordinator@artsbuildontario.ca.

Wing 404 Meanwhile Space Program Extended to May 29th 2026!

Written by

We are thrilled to share some exciting news for the Waterloo arts community! Due to the success of our ongoing partnership with the City of Waterloo, the Meanwhile Spaces program at Wing 404 has been officially extended. Local artists, collectives, and arts organizations now have access to this versatile, historic venue until May 29th, 2026.

What is Wing 404?

Located at 510 Dutton Drive, Wing 404 is a unique, multi-functional space designed to support the creative process. Whether you are mounting a large-scale rehearsal, hosting a movement workshop, or looking for a quiet place to develop a new literary work, Wing 404 offers the infrastructure you need to succeed.

As part of the Meanwhile Spaces initiative, this venue provides a low-cost, high-flexibility solution for creators in a time when affordable space is harder than ever to find.

Space Features & Amenities

Wing 404 is a highly adaptable facility that can be used as one large venue or divided into three distinct sections:

  • The Stage Room (Assembly 1 & 2): 34′ x 42′ — Perfect for large rehearsals and performances.

  • The Fireplace Room (Assembly 3): 34′ x 34′ — A cozy yet spacious mid-sized area.

  • The Forest Room (Assembly 4 & 5): Two smaller, intimate spaces (24.3′ x 27.2′ and 17′ x 19′) ideal for small groups or clean visual arts.

Technical & Site Specs:

  • Capacity: Up to 300 standing or 272 seated.

  • Tech: High-speed Wi-Fi, projector screen, and a full sound system.

  • Furnishings: 136 chairs and over 30 tables (various sizes) are available for use.

  • Access: 24/7 key access for selected tenants.

  • Parking: On-site parking for up to 90 vehicles (no permit required).

  • Comfort: Full heating, air conditioning, and kitchenette on-site.

Booking & Eligibility

Wing 404 is suitable for movement practices, performance arts, literary arts, and “clean” visual arts (e.g., no ceramics or excessive paint). The space is designed to accommodate both quiet practices and loud production work.

Affordable Rates:

$12.00 + HST per hour

  • Primetime (Mon-Sat, 5 PM – 10 PM): 3-hour minimum booking.

  • Non-Primetime: 1-hour minimum increments.

Accessibility Note

We strive to be transparent about our facility’s accessibility. Wing 404 is a ground-level facility with no stairs. Washrooms are available and include stalls wide enough for mobility devices with handrails; however, please note they are not currently classified as universal or gender-neutral.

How to Apply

We are currently accepting applications from local artists and organizations looking to make Wing 404 their creative home through 2026.

  • Apply Online

  • Questions? For support requests or more information, please email our coordinator at coordinator@artsbuildontario.ca.

Making Spaces for Art: A Case Study – Registry Theatre

Written by

“Let me not to the marriage of true minds admit impediments”

registryThe story of The Registry Theatre is intimately and irretrievably entwined with that of J.M. Drama and the City of Kitchener. Originally built in 1939 as the Waterloo County Registry Office, it is one of the few art deco buildings in Waterloo Region. Yet what became The Registry Theatre was the result of its own perfect marriage between the City of Kitchener and J.M. Drama. Like all relationships, they have their own romantic tales and foibles. But make no mistake, this marriage not only is growing strong, but still has its spark.

[ continue reading ]   

Making Spaces for Art: A Case Study – Dundas Valley School of Art

Written by

“In this world there are only two tragedies. One is not getting what you want and the other is getting it.” Oscar Wilde

Dundas Valley School of Art has turned the tragedy of getting what you want into triumph.  The catalyst for some transformations is sometimes so deceptively simple. The Dundas Valley School of Art turned a minor injury into a major overhaul.  A broken ankle for Executive Director Arthur Greenblatt resulted in the renovation of the entire facility. The experience has left Greenblatt with some cautionary tales about closing your venue and renovating it tip to top, about accepting money from the Federal Government, and about navigating politics. But his biggest caution echoes the thoughts of the famous playwright Oscar Wilde. “Be careful what you wish for,” Greenblatt says.

[ continue reading ]  

Accessibility Ontario Webinars

Written by

The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) affects all businesses, nonprofits and all levels of government in Ontario. With the goal of breakdown barriers for people with disabilities, the AODA mandates that all organizations meet various standards relating to customer service, employment, information and communications, the built environment, and transportation (www.accessontario.ca).

ArtsBuild has partnered with Accessibility Ontario to deliver the information that you need to comply with Accessibility Ontario Disability Act (AODA) Standards.

Accessibilty Ontario is about to begin their first two webinar series, aimed at helping organizations understand the AODA Standards – and both of the first webinars are being offered for FREE. Visit our Calendar for more information, or head to www.accessontario.ca to learn more about the AODA and Accessibility Ontario’s programs.