Concrete to Colour: How Factory No.1 Continues Bristol’s Street Art Legacy

Bristol’s reputation for creativity thrives in unexpected places, and at Factory No.1 in Bedminster, that spirit is once again being brought vividly to life. City & Country has reimagined part of its landmark development by transforming sections of the underground car park into a striking public artwork, created in partnership with acclaimed local street artist S.P:Zero.

The concrete walls of the historic former factory are being reworked as vibrant canvases, continuing a creative collaboration between City & Country and the artist that has evolved over more than a decade. S.P:Zero, whose real name is Keith Hopewell, first became part of the Factory No.1 story through the creation of the development’s original branding, now recognisable in the distinctive green and black artwork lining the arcade. Since then, his work has become synonymous with Factory No.1, appearing across a number of communal areas, including a beautifully restored listed staircase.

City & Country has also previously commissioned S.P:Zero to create large-scale artworks on the development’s hoardings, including a tribute to Her Late Majesty The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee in 2022, followed by a poignant memorial piece later that year to mark Remembrance Day. The latest installation builds on that legacy, further embedding art into the everyday experience of residents and visitors alike.

Using a colour palette consistent with his earlier work on the site, S.P:Zero’s new designs take inspiration from the original architecture of the former W.D. & H.O. Wills tobacco factory. Historic photographs, overlooked architectural details and the relief sculpture outside the building all influence the artwork, while abstract organic patterns symbolise the blending of heritage with new life at Factory No.1.

Reflecting on the project, S.P:Zero said: “Bristol has always found beauty in unexpected places. Transforming a concrete car park wall into a vibrant piece of art felt like a natural extension of that spirit. It’s about injecting life, personality and a bit of surprise into everyday surroundings.” He added: “It’s very special to be asked to bring the history of Factory No.1 to life through art. I’ve spent the best part of a decade working on this site, and the designs have evolved as the development itself has grown. We’ve drawn inspiration from the minute details of the building and abstracted them to bring attention to parts of the architecture that are often overlooked.”

Through its sponsorship and support of street art at Factory No.1, City & Country continues to champion Bristol’s creative culture while strengthening the relationship between contemporary urban living and artistic heritage. Shelley West, Sales and Marketing Director at City & Country, commented: “Our Factory No.1 development has been shaped by history, but it must also speak to the present. Working with S.P:Zero brings a bold contemporary layer to a historic setting and reflects our belief that great places evolve through creativity as much as craftsmanship.”

Factory No.1 offers a unique combination of historic character and modern living in the heart of Bedminster, one of Bristol’s most vibrant and well-connected neighbourhoods. Built on the site of the former Imperial Tobacco Factory, the development features thoughtfully designed homes with high-spec interiors, SMEG-equipped kitchens and elegant quartz worktops.

Residents enjoy exclusive access to landscaped courtyard gardens that offer a peaceful retreat close to the city centre, alongside secure gated entry and a dedicated concierge service supporting day-to-day living. The development is just a short distance from Bristol city centre, with Bristol Temple Meads station providing direct rail connections to London in approximately one hour and 35 minutes and to Birmingham in around one hour and 20 minutes.

With the final phase now released, Factory No.1 presents a rare opportunity to secure a home in one of Bristol’s most sought-after locations. A selection of one- and two-bedroom apartments is available, with two-bedroom homes priced from £390,000. The show home is open daily from 10am to 5pm for prospective buyers to experience Factory No.1 first-hand.