Olympia’s glass canopy | Heatherwick Studio

Celebrating the original architectural innovation of the 138-year old exhibition halls, designed by Sir Henry Edward Coe, Heatherwick Studio’s visionary new design aims to enhance the public experience of the revitalised masterplan, creating 2.5 acres of new publicly-accessible open space, packed out with restaurants and bars and a lush roof garden with views over the capital, created for future visitors and the local community to enjoy. 

The canopy is a remarkable feat of engineering, consisting of five large curved structural steel arches, each with a span of 22 metres. The transparent roof, constructed of 520 rectangular low-iron glass panels, covers nearly 1,000 square metres with a pleated glazing motif inspired by the façade of the Grade II* listed Grand Hall. Paying homage to the barrel vaults, the structure establishes a visual link to Olympia's storied past while embracing cutting-edge and pioneering design, showcasing sustainable practices that optimises glass panel usage to minimise waste and improve overall material efficiency. 

A Gateway to Connectivity and Community

Situated above ground level, the canopy structure fans out to form an inviting gesture from afar. Echoing the continuous arched shape of the Grade II* listed Grand Hall and Grade II listed National Hall sitting adjacent to it, the canopy is clearly visible from the bustle of Hammersmith Road below, tempting pedestrians to ascend the escalators and investigate. This connection to the street is crucial to opening up the new Olympia and enhancing public access in a distinctive way. 

The mezzanine level will offer public seating amid landscaping, providing visitors and the local community a new perspective through the clear span of the historic exhibition roofs, which have sat above Olympia for so many decades. Forming part of the development, several concepts of premium dining and drinking experiences will bring an additional lifestyle offering, further invigorating Olympia as an animated new hub for the neighbourhood.

Once completed, Olympia is set to become a global powerhouse for events, entertainment, and innovation. This one of a kind redevelopment, co-designed by Heatherwick Studio and SPPARC, will boast a diverse and expansive range of offerings, seamlessly blending the iconic exhibition halls with two world-class hotels; a buzzing F&B boasting 30+ restaurants; a live music hall managed by AEG Presents; a prestigious theatre by the Trafalgar Entertainment Group;  the Wetherby Performing Arts School, a partnership with The BRIT School, and of state of the art offices. This dynamic destination is projected to attract over 10 million visitors annually, solidifying Olympia's place as a ‘must-visit’ attraction in London.