Learn More About

The Cleveland

Twist Drill Building

Looking up at sky from Twist Drill courtyard. A water tower with the word "Cleveland" sits on top of the building.

The Cleveland Twist Drill Building, a historic commercial industrial complex, spans an impressive 375,000 square feet and stands as a testament to Cleveland's rich industrial heritage. With structures dating back to the 1800s, this architectural gem is being thoughtfully re-purposed into a vibrant and inspiring space for artists, artisans, photographers, designers, mixed media artists, and event services.

The Building

Side of industrial building and cars parked on the street alongside it.

Situated at the intersection of E. 49th and Lakeside Ave in the heart of Cleveland, Ohio, the Cleveland Twist Drill Building offers a prime location with easy access and ample free parking. We understand that convenience is key, and we strive to provide a hassle-free experience for all our tenants and visitors.

Looking into the Twist Drill courtyard from the garage entrance. The bricks above an opposite garage entrance says "7" noting the building number and "1906" noting the year the building was built.

Step inside our doors, and you'll discover a dynamic mix of interconnected buildings, each with its own unique charm and character. From spacious loft-style studios to versatile workspaces, our complex offers a plethora of options to suit the needs of every creative professional.

Rows of empty, white chairs arranged for an event in the BLDG 17 space.
Woman from artists at the twist collective shows in-progress work in her studio.

Here, artists have the freedom to unleash their creativity in expansive studios flooded with natural light, while designers find inspiration in our flexible spaces that can be tailored to their specific projects. Photographers can capture stunning visuals against the backdrop of our industrial architecture, and event planners can transform our expansive hall into memorable weddings, conferences, and more.

Smiling man with glasses from the Artists at the Twist collective prepares his workspace for a project. Artwork hangs on the wall behind him.

Whether you're an established artist looking for a new space or a budding creative seeking a nurturing environment, the Cleveland Twist Drill Building welcomes you with open arms. Join us in celebrating Cleveland's artistic renaissance and become a part of our thriving community today.

For a small sampling of the companies and individuals that make up our community, check out:

Our History

Historical image from the Twist Drill Cleveland Co. shows a woman operating machinery.

Commanding the corner of East 49th and Lakeside in Cleveland, Ohio, the Cleveland Twist Drill Building is a testament both to the city's industrial past and its vibrant future. At nearly 400,000 square feet and constructed over several generations, this structure embodies the rise and fall of a manufacturing giant, the ingenuity of American engineering, and the ongoing transformation of urban spaces.

Historical photo of men from the Twist Drill Cleveland Co. operating machinery.

Cleveland Twist Drill began when Ohioan Jacob Cox invested in a small machine shop which he later moved to Cleveland in September of 1876. By June of 1888, the growing enterprise moved to its long-time location at Lakeside and E. 49th St. The company introduced many employee benefits that are standard today, including 2 weeks of vacation, profit sharing, retirement pensions, and group life insurance.

Historical illustration of the Twist Drill Cleveland campus when it was at it's prime.

In the late 20th Century, as Cleveland Twist Drill, the company, was sold to larger corporations, Cleveland Twist Drill, the building, embarked on a new chapter. Recognizing its historical and architectural significance, dedicated investors are transforming the giant industrial space into a modern home for creative businesses in the heart of the city. Today, the building houses dance studios, art galleries, an event space, and even a coffee roaster, breathing new life into its sturdy walls.

The Cleveland Twist Drill Building stands as a symbol of Cleveland's industrial heritage. It whispers tales of innovation, grit, and the indomitable spirit of American manufacturing. In its new incarnation, it represents Cleveland’s ability to adapt and reinvent itself, a testament to the enduring power of urban spaces to evolve and continue serving future generations.