Somerset House opens its largest space for creative events in London

Somerset House is throwing the doors open to its largest and most exclusive indoor space this autumn, previously used for exhibitions such as Valentino: Master of Couture and Isabella Blow: Fashion Galore.

Running the entire length of the South Wing and situated on two floors with capacity for 800 people standing, the opening of the 1,059-square-metre Embankment Galleries for the 2017-18 autumn and winter seasons will significantly increase event capacity at Somerset House.

Originally a barrel-vaulted bargehouse dating back to 1864, the contemporary event space features stunning vaulted ceilings and has previously played host to exhibitions celebrating fashion’s most influential figures, including Martin Margiela and Guy Bourdin.

Somerset House has already received enquiries for the rarely available blank canvas space from event organisers looking to host product launches, experiential events and large dinners. And with London Fashion Week being held at 180 The Strand (15-19 September), the Embankment Galleries provide the ideal location for after parties and fashion shows, with space to house a 60-foot long catwalk.

Somerset House is running an open house event on 19 and 20 April to showcase the Embankment Galleries’ versatility. The space will be transformed by production company Light Motif and florist Pinstripes and Peonies to illustrate the variety of events that can be staged.

Jenny Freestone, Head of Corporate Events for Somerset House Trust comments: “This is a very exciting time for Somerset House, as we’re able to offer our largest venue to event organisers for autumn and winter 2017-18. Up until now, this exclusive space has not been available for such an extended period of time. We expect demand to be very high for this versatile venue.”

Bookings for the Embankment Galleries can be made for autumn-winter 2017-18 seasons up until February 2018 by contacting the events team at Somerset House on 020 7845 4618 or events@somersethouse.org.uk. Further information can be found at somersethouse.org.uk/embankment-galleries.