Penmachno

Located in the Machno Valley in the Snowdonia National Park, Penmachno has undergone major changes over the last century. Once a community of over 30 small businesses that capitalised on the booming slate mining and wool processing industries in the area, it is now facing new challenges. The
community’s vision for the future is therefore to improve its self-sufficiency and sustainability, create more affordable housing and offer more visitor attractions.

The space, which used to be a grocery shop, then a photo darkroom and finally fell into disrepair for 20 years, was renovated and redesigned. Through co-design events, workshops, consultations, open days, and the establishment of an active citizens’ initiative, Oriel Machno has created a new space with an ongoing programme of events and exhibitions, as well as street-facing shop windows for local producers and artisans to promote and sell their wares.