A WINCHESTER woman is hoping to bring something new to the city's art spaces with the launch of her shop and workshop.

Mother-of-two Sarah Green has opened Birdhouse this weekend in Romsey Road and is hoping it will become a 'go to' destination for art lovers.

"We have the Colour Factory and Art Cafe but Winchester needs more art spaces," the 46-year-old said.

"There needs to be more places for people to go particularly with children, so hopefully I can contribute to that."

The shop will stock Ms Green's own originally-designed items, along with other brands of jewellery, greetings cards, gifts and contemporary homeware.

Most items will be handmade and there will be room for creative craft workshops for both adults and children - they were previously run from her home in Fulflood.

Ms Green is a trained graphic designer and craftperson, but also combines her love of art with entrepreneurship.

Her after-school design club sees children design cards, with the best put up for sale and the profits taken by the designer.

She is also an associate lecturer at the University of Winchester's business school, and studied a masters in cultural studies there in 2012.

As well as promoting Birdhouse as a friendly and welcoming environment, Ms Green is hoping to add some sparkle the area.

"I hope it will regenerate this part of town," she said.

"It's a little bit in need of some development, and I'm interested in that.

"I want Birdhouse to be friendly and approachable but also professional. I'm not aiming to be the most expensive place in town."

The shop, at 4 Romsey Road, held a launch evening on Friday July 3 from 7pm-10pm and is officially open from 10am today.