When it comes to planning an event, the venue is quite literally the MOST important aspect (obviously location and vibes are also integral, but these still depend on the venue itself). The right space can have you feeling super enlivened and the event completely transformed.
Today, I’m going to introduce you to three of my favourite venue spaces in London—but these spaces don’t just host events, oh no. Instead, they inspire them.
(That quip may have sounded better in my head.)
PROTEIN STUDIOS
Protein Studios (sick name, btw) is nestled right in the vibrant heart of Shoreditch—the best location for organic engagement and foot fall)—and from the second that you step into its 13,000 square feet of interconnected studio space, I swear you’ll be absolutely overtaken with inspiration.
It’s pretty cool, actually: you have the flexibility to choose from individual studios for more intimate gatherings, or combine studios for larger productions. The venue’s industrial chic aesthetic—polished concrete floors, high ceilings, and abundant natural light—provides an unbounded platform for any type of event (even tieguanyin tastings, and we all know how finicky they can be).
Here, you can host either large-scale productions or super intimate gatherings—the space really is that versatile. Plus, as it is so easy to adapt, you can experiment as much as your heart desires. Let Protein Studios help guide you with supplier suggestions, so you can let your inner child run free.
With vault ceilings that stretch to 8.5 metres (even bigger than me, and I’m pretty giant), the space can be flooded with daylight, elevating the inherent vibes of the place, enhancing the moods of everyone involved, and stimulating more things than just creativity (I’m talking innovation).
Be welcomed by a dedicated team with their a lil’ black book of partners (I also have one of these, but for different reasons), so you can feel fully supported with every aspect of the event.
In short, Protein Studios is an ideal venue that can adapt effortlessly to different themes and formats. Plus, it has a history of hosting events which reflect cutting-edge trends in art, fashion, and design, with every corner simply exuding creativity and innovation.
It’s pretty perfect, tbh.
SHOREDITCH TOWN HALL
Imagine, lofty ceilings, walls adorned with Italian marble, and a Matcham-style balcony (named after architect Frank Matcham, celebrated for his Victorian and Edwardian designs, duh). To be frank (and not the Matcham kind), Shoreditch Town Hall, with its historic ambiance and sophisticated design, encourage innovation by immersing attendees in a super inspiring setting.
Honestly, is as perfect for event-throwing as it is for professing your love in classic Juliet-on-the-balcony style.
This is the untouched basement of the original Grade II listed building, and it exudes the most divinely raw and creative energy. With exposed brickwork, pipes, and original fireplaces and stoves, this space offers an immersive, intimate setting. But don’t be led astray by the rugged charm (I’ve been there), as The Ditch boasts full production capabilities and flexibility for a range of events.
Council Chamber & Mayor’s Parlour
The Council Chamber, originally the Vestry Hall, comes with a moulded ceiling, floor-to-ceiling columns, and stained glass windows which make it absolutely perfect for intimate dinners, drinks receptions, or talks. You can also pair it with the adjacent Mayor’s Parlour, which is pretty cool.
Large, Medium and Small Committee Rooms
Located on the first floor are three interconnecting rooms: the Large Committee Room, the Medium Committee Room, and—you guessed it—the Small Committee Room. With their distinctive period features, Edwardian fireplaces, and elegant buttressed ceilings, these spaces provide an intimate yet sophisticated environment for events.
Here, amidst architectural details which simply ooze grandeur and sophistication, allow yourself to truly get swept up in your own imagination. With seating for 770 in a exceedingly classy theatre-style arrangement, this venue can truly transform into a flexible event space where all of your event-related (and other-related, if you so wish) dreams can come true.
Inspired yet?
ST MARTIN IN THE FIELDS
And then we have St Martin-in-the-Fields, an absolutely gorgeous space which is more than just a breathtaking historical landmark; it’s a creative canvas (teehee I said our name!), located right in the heart of London. And when I say heart, I mean heart—I’ve been drinking tea at their cafe for years during my forays throughout the city.
If you’re interested in spaces where history and elegance intertwine, their 18th-century Crypt is likely the perfect place for you.
The Crypt is their most exclusive space. There is nothing quite like it in London and the open layout and large capacity (up to 500 standing) make it the perfect location for receptions, dinners and networking events. They’ve played host to major opening night parties for the stars, film crews using it as a distinctive location backdrop in major movies, themed parties, wedding receptions, fashion shows and more. With infinitely flexible ways to dress the space, and full hospitality services to cater for your guests, the Crypt can be transformed to suit any number of requirements
With the same stunning architecture as the main Crypt, the Gallery can hold up to 120 people standing and can be entirely self-contained or used in conjunction with the main Crypt. The space has access to its own toilet facilities and can be configured for receptions or seated dinners. There’s even a hidden corridor of interesting historical artefacts for your guests to explore if they so wished!
With a more contemporary design and flexibility, St Martin’s Hall is a stunning setting for events from conferences, lectures, training, receptions and seated dinners. We have also held cultural rehearsals in the space, from West End shows to chamber orchestras.
Finally, every event held at St Martin-in-the-Fields supports their community initiatives, work with the homeless and other vulnerable populations across London. This commitment gives the venue a purpose beyond hosting, creating a space where creativity flourishes with a sense of meaning and social impact.
As you can see, it’s a pretty fantastic venue all-round.
