The Royal College of Music has been recently awarded the distinguished 2025 RIBA London Award in recognition of a landmark redevelopment by John Simpson Architects, which was officially opened in 2021 following four years’ work.
The project revitalised the historic South Kensington campus with an investment of £40 million from generous supporters. This included a full renovation of the ground floor, where a new foyer now leads to The Carolean: a bright, modern refreshment space that adjoins both the outdoor 1851 Courtyard and the triple-height Cotes-Burgan Atrium.
Two new performance spaces were also built: the versatile Performance Hall, ideal for recitals, masterclasses, private dinners and receptions; and the Performance Studio, which is the new home for RCM’s Performance Laboratory Simulator. This world-leading training facility can replicate a wide range of performance environments using three wall-sized projection screens and a 64-speaker Meyer Constellation system, which recreates the acoustics of dozens of iconic venues at the touch of a button. Furthermore, a multi-level, fully accessible RCM Museum now houses one of the most significant collections of historic musical instruments in the world.
This significant renovation project has undoubtedly contributed to the College being named the Global No.1 Institution for Music and Performing Arts for the fourth year running. As well as supporting students with more performance and practice spaces, the College is committed to sustainability and inclusivity, with over half of their students receiving scholarships and bursaries to support their studies.
Alongside the opening of the redevelopment in 2021 came the successful launch of Royal College of Music Venue Hire, which offers these fabulous, state-of-the-art venues for external hire. All proceeds from venue hire directly support the College’s students and Future Music Fund.
To hold your next event in one of our award-winning venues, contact us today.
