The Blueprint hardhat tour gave guests an exclusive opportunity to view exciting the exciting refurbishment project at Southbank Centre before it is unveiled to the public early next year. Guests were provided with appropriate PPE for the tour, which was followed by a reception featuring Bubble’s seasonal canapes.
Originally created in 1951 for the Festival of Britain, the refurbishment of the Royal Festival Hall (RFH) ten years ago greatly enhanced the popular cultural sector south of the Thames. The RFH itself offers a number of stylish spaces for dinners, parties, awards ceremonies, conferencing, meetings and weddings.
The Southbank Centre as a whole has become one of London’s key cultural institutions and these refurbishments ensure its continued success for future generations.
Work is in progress within their iconic 1960s Brutalist venues – the Queen Elizabeth Hall (QEH), Hayward Gallery and Purcell Room – with plans in place to make public spaces around the site more attractive and accessible.
Their aim is to create new spaces for performance; to extend the roof gardens at QEH; to fully pedestrianise the route to the river between the RFH, Hayward Gallery and the QEH; and to improve the connections between the Southbank Centre and its neighbouring area.
With just six months of the project remaining, the restoration will return the venues to their former glory and equip them with 21st Century technology. The intention is to bring the spaces up to the world class standard expected by events organisers, whilst staying true to the 1960s aesthetic of the original designs.
Additionally, a key priority has been to ensure the much-loved venues remain bright, welcoming and inspiring spaces for all to enjoy, rain or shine.
Improvements to the QEH and Purcell Room include a refurbished auditoria with state-of-the-art production and technical equipment, enhanced acoustics and refurbished seats. Particularly beneficial for events, the foyer will be upgraded with new glazing resulting in a light and welcoming space with views over the Thames.
The key focus of the works in progress at Hayward Gallery is to restore the glass pyramid lights on the roof, which will benefit the upper galleries with controlled natural lighting. Additionally, the stone floors will be replaced, the sculpture terraces will be repaved and new climate control and other essential building services will be installed, ensuring the Hayward Gallery can continue to host its programme of globally renowned exhibitions.
Read more about the incredible transformations taking place at Southbank Centre or contact our talented events team on 020 7703 2653 to find out how this iconic venue, including Royal Festival Hall, can provide a unique backdrop for your next event.