British designer Thomas Heatherwick's firm Heatherwick Studio, in collaboration with London-based studio SPPARC Architects, has been named to transform London's Olympia into a "world-class" venue, housing a new hotel, theatre and entertainment venues, as well as museums, co-working spaces and innovative new restaurants. The commission has been announced today by Olympia London owners Yoo Capital and Deutsche Finance and the two offices will completely be responsible for the overhaul of the 130-year-old project by protecting the buildings' original structure. 

The project, including the 130-year-old exhibition centre, sits on a 14-and-a-half-acre (approx. 58,679-sqare-metre) site in Kensington, London - the aim of this major transformation is to provide a world-class place for "a world-leading arts, entertainment, exhibition and experiential district whilst staying true to its original heritage as an exhibition business," according to the investors. 

Heatherwick Studio has also been commissioned to enhance communal areas and retail units whilst retaining its iconic features.

"My studio's passion is improving the public experience of cities for everyone. During this first phase we are beginning to talk to people, particularly local residents and visitors, to learn more about Olympia London and are looking forward to working on the project," said Thomas Heatherwick of Heatherwick Studio.

"When we took over as caretaker of Olympia London, we vowed to celebrate its iconic heritage. By working with world respected design firm Heatherwick Studio, we are staying true to this promise and ensuring that Olympia London is elevated on the world stage as a must-visit exhibition, events and leisure destination," said John Hitchcox, Chairman of Yoo Capital.

London's Olympia was originally built in 1886 by Henry Edward Coe as a National Agricultural Hall, showing the 170ft clear span of the roof. The building is famous for its stunning Victorian architecture, magnificent galleries and ornate barrel-vaulted roof, the space is perfect for exhibitions, conferences, sports and concerts. The building houses seven venues creating over 45,000-square-metre space for exhibitions to be used for different purposes.

Today it houses more than 220 exhibitions and events each year including the Olympia Horse Show and Stylist Live. 

"We are honoured to be long-term owners and caretakers of this magnificent estate. Our Victorian forefathers first conceived Olympia London to be a destination for all people to see, learn and experience major exhibitions, events in culture, music, technology, arts and sports," added Lloyd Lee, Managing Partner of Yoo Capital. 

"We are listening to local stakeholders Hammersmith and Fulham Council, the Greater London Authority, exhibition organisers and the local community to ensure Olympia London achieves its original vision."

The £45-million overhaul for Olympia London will be more than an exhibition venue, conference centre and live-event space - it will provide a place world-class facilities for visitors and new-found flexibility for events of every size, bringing modern facilities and British heritage together.

Two weeks ago, it was announced that Heatherwick Studio's another controversial project Pier 55 was scrapped, only a month after the architect's Garden Bridge was scrapped. 

1000 Trees in Shanghai, China and Vessel in New York are among the ongoing projects of Thomas Heatherwick. Besides that, the designer is currently working on Google's new headquarters in London with Bjarke Ingels Group.  

All images courtesy of Olympia London

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