Historic roots, reimagined for future progress: Olympia
Olympia's £1.3bn Regeneration: Transforming London's Events Landscape
London's historic events venue, Olympia, is set for a major transformation as a £1.3bn regeneration project kicks off, aiming to establish it as a leading cultural and events destination in the city's creative district [1][3][4].
The project, scheduled to open in phases from the second half of 2025, will expand Olympia into an integrated destination, offering a diverse range of new facilities. These include five event and conferencing venues operated by Olympia Events, a 1,575-seat purpose-built theatre operated by Trafalgar Entertainment, and a 4,000-capacity live music venue operated by AEG Presents [1][4].
The heart of the regeneration is the new International Convention Centre (ICC), set to open in early 2026. The ICC will offer event organizers the opportunity to craft unique event experiences, with approximately 3000 sqm of flexible space. It will also feature two theatre-style auditoriums with capacities of 400-830, seven breakout and seminar rooms, and a business lounge [1][4].
The ICC will be fully connectable to Olympia's current four exhibition spaces, ensuring seamless integration with existing events. The Grand and National Hall are being carefully restored as part of the regeneration project, preserving and celebrating Olympia's rich heritage while modernizing its structures [1][4].
In addition to the ICC, Olympia will also boast a private members club, The Addison, offering opportunities for extended conferences. The Addison will have the ability to host private dinners and drinks gatherings by hiring the entire restaurant and bar, as well as the mezzanine above [1][4].
The regeneration project, designed by Heatherwick Studio and SPPARC for Yoo Capital and DFI, will also include on-site hotels, dining outlets, and restaurants, enhancing the visitor experience. New office spaces and schooling facilities are planned to create a multi-use environment [1][4].
The anticipated annual footfall for the regenerated Olympia is circa 10 million, making it a significant player in London's events scene. The goal is for Olympia to become a dynamic, international hub for conferences, entertainment, exhibitions, and live events [1][4].
This transformation of Olympia marks an exciting chapter in its history, which dates back to 1886 [1]. The regenerated Olympia aims to be the most dynamic international conference, exhibition, entertainment, and major event destination in the world.
[1] The Olympia London Regeneration Project
[3] Olympia London announces £1.3bn regeneration project
[4] Olympia London to be transformed into a major cultural and events destination
- Amidst the transformation of Olympia, it will soon become a hub not only for sports and cultural events but also for lifestyle, entertainment, home-and-garden exhibitions, and general news conferences, thanks to the addition of multiple venue types and facilities.
- With the opening of the new International Convention Centre, people can expect Olympia to emerge as a leading destination for diverse events, ranging from specialized seminars and conferences to live music concerts, theater performances, and more, making it a significant player in London's lifestyle and entertainment scene.
