It seems like every time we walk down Argyle Street there’s something new to the neighbourhood. Finnieston is in a state of flux. Chelsea Markets opened recently, Strip Joint gastropub has replaced Bannister’s and the bar that was Rockus until late last year is currently being re-kitted. It’s set to be the latest new venue from Kained Holdings, who have been buying up and transforming bits of Finnieston for the last decade. They are also planning a deli beside Lebowski’s.
As you walk up from Minerva Street, you’ll notice the tasteful exterior of Finnieston House. In the 80s this was a a hardware store – the current owner worked there with his father. Before that it was a TV set shop called Panovision; before that a hatter’s shop by William Bennett. Way back in 1855 this address was Finnieston House, established to serve the people of the Finnieston Cross area.
So, things have gone full circle. It’s also interesting how this one spot has reflected the high street trends of the times.
We hope the modern incarnation of Finnieston House is a trend-setter. They describe themselves as a “trading pop-up venue for artisans, artists, micro-businesses and hand-crafters wishing to exhibit, express, showcase and sell their wares”.
Translated, that means that one of the prime spots on the coolest street in the city is now available to local food producers and creative folk as they grow their business. This is an exciting new development.
You have a gallery space, a coffee shop, a street food stall, vegan brunch spot, a small performance venue and, most importantly, cake, in one compact, multi-faceted location. Every part of town should have somewhere like this.
Don’t roll your eyes at the bang-on-trend hipster sensibilities – quite frankly, we’ll take all the healthy bakes and street food we can find – think about what opportunities Finnieston House will offer to young businesses or proto-entrepreneurs.
There are plenty of creative cottage-industries growing in the city, particularly around food and crafts – these people need tangible places to connect with customers. Add in a bit of music, art and we’ve got a party.
Owner Aziz is working with Gillian from Something Brewed and Jasmeet from Garam Masala Street Food. The space is available for hire by artists or anyone making artisan goods. A rolling roster of producers will be providing food to try. Think of it of an edible bric-a-brac store, with a healthy, vegan focus.
If you are curious, pop in this weekend, discover some new sweet treats from Big Bear Bakery and meet some of the best local producers in the city.
Finnieston House
994 Argyle Street,
Glasgow,
G3 8LU
Tel: 0141 237 3435
Glasgow G3 8LD, UK