the evolution of olympia
Heatherwick Studio and SPPARC have revealed the next phase of Olympia’s transformation from exhibition venue into a new cultural destination, reimagining one of London’s great Victorian public buildings...
Originally opened in 1886, Olympia was synonymous with public spectacle, hosting everything from international trade fairs to Vivienne Westwood’s first runway show, and historic concerts by Pink Floyd and Jimi Hendrix. For over 140 years, it has continued to welcome visitors to remarkable events, serving as a showcase for culture, creativity and innovation on the world stage. Today, its transformation builds on that legacy, introducing new public spaces, cultural venues and hospitality destinations that invite people to experience Olympia in new ways throughout the year. The new masterplan, co-designed by Heatherwick Studio and
SPPARC builds on Olympia’s intricate Victorian architecture, integrating the 14-acre site back into the city. By relocating all logistics underground and opening 2.5 acres of publicly accessible streets, spaces, elevated walkways and landscaped terraces, the design restores the historic routes that once ran between the Grade II and Grade II* listed halls. Olympia’s historic exhibition halls remained in continuous
operation throughout, preserving their 20,000-person capacity. The new rooftop space under Olympia’s striking new glass
Image: Raquel Diniz
Canopy is now open. Rising at second-storey level above the existing heritage halls, the Canopy introduces nearly 1,000m2 of new public space to the city. Visible from Olympia Way, the structure fans outwards above a public staircase and the escalators, creating a clear visual gateway that draws people into the site. From its mezzanine level, visitors can experience entirely new views across the cast iron and glass barrel-vaulted roofs that have defined Olympia’s skyline for over a century. It was inspired by the original design of Sir Henry Edward Coe, and is formed of five curved structural steel arches. Each arch spans 22m, supporting a transparent roof of 520 pleated glass panels that reference the facade of the historic Grand Hall.
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50 |
Page 51 |
Page 52
