Restaurateur Des Gunewardena is launching a new 30,000 sq ft concept restaurant, bar and events space at the £1.3bn redevelopment of Olympia in West London.
The co-founder and former CEO of restaurant group D&D London will transform the Grade II* listed Pillar Hall into a landmark venue featuring a main restaurant, less formal café/grill, central bar, outdoor dining and a basement speakeasy.
There will also be a 370-seated capacity/600 total capacity new music and events space that will cater for a wide range of events, both private and public.
The new Pillar Hall will be designed by Robert Angell Design International and will stay true to the hall’s original design elements, while creating a spectacular new interior.
The redevelopment of the 14-acre Olympia site, which is due to open from 2025, is being spearheaded by Yoo Capital and Deutsche Finance International. The redevelopment was co-designed by Heatherwick Studio and SPPARC.
Des Gunewardena, CEO of D3 Collective, said: “Olympia is a much-loved British institution, but many people might not have been there for a while. With these plans, that’s going to change big time. The new Olympia is going to become a globally recognised entertainment and leisure destination bang in the middle of West London, and we are excited to be a part of it.”
Lloyd Lee, managing partner at Yoo Capital, added: “We are delighted to welcome Des whose restaurants have thrilled Londoners and visitors for over a generation and a half. Partnering with an industry heavyweight such as Des, further cements Yoo Capital’s commitment of creating a world class destination that showcases the best of major brands, innovation, culture and food.”
