Portland Works is a former cutlery works in the Highfield area of Sheffield in England. Built in 1877, it is now a Grade II* listed building and one of the last remaining working examples of a purpose built metal trades factory. In early 2013, it was bought by nearly five hundred people, through one of the country's largest community share issues. Today Portland works operates a collection of workspaces for traditional and modern craftspeople and is home to more than 30 small businesses. History The building, designed by architect JH Jenkinson was constructed in the late 1870s as a cutlery works. Three two- and three-storey ranges of brick-built workshops, offices and showrooms lie around a courtyard containing an octagonal chimney and some more recent structures. The central part of the rear range of workshops was reduced from three to two stories, following a fire. It was occupied for many years by R. F. Mosley, before being split into separate workshops. When first constructed, it was partially mechanised. When surveyed by English Heritage in 1995, it still retained hand forges and a steam-grinding room. In 1914, through a collaboration between Harry Brearley, Ernest Stuart and R. F. Mosley at Portland Works, this became the first place in the world to manufacture stainless steel cutlery and this remains, to this day, one of the site's many activities. The city of Sheffield in itself is strongly associated with its steel industry heritage not least in sporting world, with the ice hockey team known as the Sheffield Steelers and one of the local football teams, Sheffield United being nicknamed 'The Blades'. Bramall Lane, Sheffield United's football ground, is within walking distance of Portland Works. Tenants Portland Works exists as a centre for small manufacturing, independent artists and craftspeople. In November 2020, more than 30 small businesses were located within the 2600 square metre floor space. These include knife makers, engravers and engineers; cabinetmakers and joiners; jewellers and silver platers; artists; guitar makers; photographers and a Yorkshire based gin distillery. Music and art Musicians Portland Works has been associated with the music and art scene for a number of years. Bands such as Kimmy Yeah, Dosch and Big Eyes Family Players use Portland Works to practise, and there are studio facilities for use by other bands. Def Leppard used the works for early band rehearsals. Artists As well as musicians, a number of artists make