About us

We believe vacant space is an opportunity.

Interim Spaces was created from a simple idea:

What if empty buildings didn't have to sit empty while they waited for their next chapter? Instead of seeing vacancy as a problem, we see possibility. A temporary activation can create revenue, bring people into a neighbourhood, support local businesses, introduce a building to new audiences and help a property become part of the community again.

That's what Interim is here to do.

Built From Experience

Interim Spaces didn't begin as an idea on paper. It grew out of years of actually operating creative spaces. Through Millworks Creative, we've experienced what it takes to take an under-utilized building, understand its potential, create an identity around it, bring people through the doors and build a community around the space.

That experience has included photography, film, events, creative studios, workshops, markets, wellness, retail and community programming. We've learned that successful activation isn't simply about putting something inside an empty building. It's about understanding the building, the people around it and the opportunity in between.

Why Interim?

Because we've seen firsthand what can happen when an overlooked building becomes active again.

  • A vacant property can become a workplace.
  • A temporary studio.
  • A gathering place.
  • A destination.
  • A testing ground for a future idea.
  • Or simply a place where people want to spend time.

Interim exists to help more properties discover that potential.

Our Approach

We don’t force rigid templates onto vacant buildings. Every property is distinct, every neighborhood has unique needs, and every timeline creates a different opportunity.

Instead of fitting your building into a pre-packaged box, we build the strategy around the asset. We evaluate:

  • The Building: Physical capabilities, unique character, and natural layout limits.
  • The Location: Local demographics, surrounding businesses, and community demand.
  • The Opportunity: Viable interim uses that drive immediate foot traffic and revenue.
  • The Timeline: Your commercial target dates and optimal break-clause flexibility.
  • The Investment: Modular, low-cost fit-outs that maximize value without overcapitalizing.

We turn holding costs into active opportunities through custom-fit strategy—not one-size-fits-all formulas.

  • Temporary by Design

    Interim activations are designed to be flexible. That means we can work within buildings that may eventually be renovated, leased, sold or redeveloped. We focus on thoughtful improvements and creative programming rather than permanent changes that limit what comes next. The goal isn't to compete with the building's future. It's to create value while that future is being figured out.

  • We Love Buildings with Character

    While Interim isn't limited to heritage properties, we have a particular appreciation for buildings with history, character and a story to tell.

    • Old industrial buildings.
    • Historic storefronts.
    • Former institutional spaces.
    • Empty commercial properties.
    • Buildings that have been overlooked.

    We believe these spaces can become meaningful parts of their communities again — sometimes in ways that were never originally imagined.

  • Collaborative Activation

    We believe the best activations are built collaboratively. Interim serves as the connective tissue between property owners, creative professionals, and local communities—transforming idle spaces into vibrant destinations.

The Next Chapter

Interim Spaces isn't about keeping buildings temporary forever.

It's about recognizing that there is value in the time between what a building was and what it will become.

Sometimes that period is six months.

Sometimes it's two years.

Sometimes the activation reveals an entirely new possibility for the property.

Whatever the timeline, we're here to make that time count.

This is Interim.

The space between what was and what's next.