Portland Works, Sheffield

Portland Works is a historic former cutlery works located in the Highfield area of Sheffield. Built in 1877 and designed by architect JH Jenkinson, the building is now a Grade II* listed structure and one of the last remaining examples of a purpose-built metal trades factory. The site is characterized by its brick-built workshops, offices, and showrooms arranged around a central courtyard featuring an octagonal chimney and some later additions. Originally, the workshops were partially mechanized and included hand forges and a steam-grinding room, remnants of which were still present when surveyed by English Heritage in 1995.

Portland Works was initially occupied by R. F. Mosley, a major cutlery manufacturer before being divided into smaller workshops. The building's history is notably marked by its role in the pioneering manufacture of stainless steel cutlery in 1914, thanks to a collaboration between Harry Brearley, Ernest Stuart, and R. F. Mosley. This groundbreaking achievement cemented Portland Works' place in Sheffield's rich steel industry heritage.

In early 2013, nearly five hundred people came together to purchase Portland Works through one of the largest community share issues in the UK, ensuring the building's preservation and continued use. Today, it houses a vibrant collection of workspaces for over 30 small businesses, ranging from traditional craftspeople to modern artisans.

Portland Works is situated close to Sheffield United’s football ground, Bramall Lane, and reflects the city's deep ties to its steel industry, which is also celebrated in local culture, such as through the ice hockey team Sheffield Steelers and the football team Sheffield United, nicknamed 'The Blades'.