The studios were originally set up in January 1997 by two artists in direct response to the critical absence of available studio space within Dublin’s city centre. It began with a core of nine artists and no funding. The organisation has grown considerably since then. In July 1998 the studios expanded the existing 5000 sq.ft industrial unit, into a second unit of 2000 sq.ft, supporting a total of 22 individual studios spaces.

In November 1997 Broadstone was awarded capital funding from the Arts Council, and revenue funding in January 1998. With this assistance and the continued  support from the Arts Council and the commitment of the artists involved Broadstone continues to evolve within the parameters of available resources to facilitate the basic needs of professional visual artists.

In June 2010 the studios relocated to a new building on Harcourt Terrace, expanding the number of studios available in addition to a large ground floor space for public engagement, exhibitions and projects.