Venue Review

Character: Neo-classical school meets modern gallery.

Funky Features: Grand scale space with modern art installations.

Location and History

Housed in the former Lambeth Ragged School, Beaconsfield gallery has expertly preserved and used the architectural features of its original design. The building was erected between 1849-1851 by Henry Beaufoy and designed in the classical Doric style with a Victorian spin. Since its rejuvenation as a contemporary art space over a decade ago the gallery has gone from strength to strength, attracting homegrown and international artists and collaborations. Such innovation marks Beaconsfield out as a quality venue - a comfortable and cool venue in which to stage almost any event.

Interior

The Lower space which spans the building’s ground floor entrance, makes a striking introduction to the venue. Designed to be both intimate and airy, the space fuses the existing features with contemporary and stylish design. Striking features such as four original cast iron pillars and an original stone floor are complemented by contemporary spotlighting and a simple and fully functional bar area.

The Arch space is a spacious tunnel of a room. The brick vault and the concrete floor give it a raw and durable feel. Providing over 130 square metres of floor space it can be adapted for a wide variety of events which require that hard-core urban setting. 

For a grander event, you should consider the Upper space, situated at the top of the original iron staircase. This is Beaconsfield’s piéce de resistance. Original tiered wooden floorboards complement vast white walls and the eye is drawn to a porthole window at the top of the rear wall. This room is bathed in the light from a trio of arched windows.

Spaces for Hire

Beaconsfield Gallery offers three distinct spaces making it a thoroughly versatile hire venue. The intimate yet crowd-friendly layout of the Lower space makes it ideal for drinks receptions and soirées or it be hired as the anteroom for bigger affairs when the magnificent upper space is needed. This is frequently hired by discerning customers staging launches, conferences and corporate hospitality parties. The Arch space lends it.