Queen Elizabeth Hall & Purcell Room reopen

When these buildings were opened in 1967 by Her Majesty the Queen, they were pioneering in their designs thanks to the controversial and forward-thinking ideas of by Hubert Bennett, head of the architects department of the Greater London Council. In 2018 the buildings have been technologically enhanced, in addition to benefitting from a new stunning glass fronted foyer, refurbished auditoria and cafe-bar. 

The design led by architects Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios (FCBStudios), focused on refurbishing the auditoria, foyer and artists’ back of house facilities. Improved access, ventilation and lighting systems, and new production infrastructure enhance the experience for audience and performers alike. New leather upholstery revitalises the Queen Elizabeth Hall and Purcell Room’s distinctive and comfortable seating.

This historic restoration has been made possible through generous support from Arts Council England and the Heritage Lottery Fund, thanks to National Lottery players, and through Southbank Centre friends, trusts and foundations supporting the Let The Light In campaign.

David Bowie, Daniel Barenboim, Patti Smith, Akram Khan and Pink Floyd were among the legends to forge their careers at these venues over the past fifty years and we will continue our pioneering history of incubating new ideas, work and artists.