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Match My Venue | Royal Institute Of British Architects | Riba | Art Deco Event Space For Hire in Central London | auditorium

Royal Institute Of British Architects

Located in the heart of London’s West End, the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) at 66 Portland Place is a Grade II listed* Art Deco masterpiece. Designed in the 1930s, this iconic venue offers a unique blend of historic elegance and contemporary facilities, making it ideal for corporate events, product launches, award ceremonies, conferences, weddings, and private celebrations.
 
With its stunning architectural details, sweeping staircases, and striking floor-to-ceiling windows, RIBA provides a truly spectacular backdrop for events of all sizes.
 
Key Features & Event Spaces
Florence Hall – A Grand Art Deco Setting
The Florence Hall is the centrepiece of RIBA, offering a beautifully designed, light-filled space with elegant etched glass doors, intricate stonework, and a terrace overlooking leafy Portland Place. This space is perfect for wedding receptions, formal dinners, drinks receptions, and exhibitions.
 
Capacity:
  • Seated dinners: Up to 200 guests
  • Standing receptions: Up to 400 guests
  • Theatre-style seating: Up to 400 guests
 
Features:
  • Direct access to an outdoor terrace, ideal for summer receptions
  • High ceilings and Art Deco detailing, creating a striking backdrop
  • Flexible layout for dinners, drinks receptions, and exhibitions
 
RIBA Gallery – Contemporary Elegance with Natural Light
The RIBA Gallery offers a sophisticated setting, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the space with natural light. With its modern design and clean, minimalist aesthetic, it is perfect for ceremonies, conferences, and evening receptions.
 
Capacity:
  • Seated dining: Up to 120 guests
  • Standing receptions: Up to 250 guests
 
Features:
  • Bright, contemporary interiors, perfect for elegant events
  • Can be combined with Florence Hall for larger gatherings
  • Flexible layout, allowing for creative event styling
 
Jarvis Auditorium – Purpose-Built for Conferences
The Jarvis Auditorium is a purpose-built lecture theatre, designed for high-profile conferences, presentations, and panel discussions. Equipped with state-of-the-art AV facilities and tiered seating, this space offers an exceptional setting for business events.
 
Capacity:
  • Theatre-style seating: Up to 284 guests
 
Features:
  • Integrated AV systems, including microphones, projectors, and screens
  • Adjacent spaces for breakout sessions, catering, or networking
  • Comfortable tiered seating for maximum engagement
 
The Lutyens Room – An Intimate and Stylish Space
Named after the legendary architect Sir Edwin Lutyens, this intimate event space is filled with natural light and historic detailing. Perfect for private dining, board meetings, and workshops, it offers a refined yet welcoming atmosphere.
 
Capacity:
  • Theatre-style seating: Up to 100 guests
 
Features:
  • Classic architecture with beautiful period details
  • Flexible seating arrangements for meetings and dinners
  • Quiet, professional setting, ideal for corporate functions
 
Why Hire the Royal Institute of British Architects?
Architectural Grandeur & Iconic Design
Hosting an event at RIBA means immersing your guests in a setting of architectural excellence and Art Deco sophistication. The venue’s stunning features and historic charm provide a backdrop like no other.
 
Versatile Spaces for All Event Types
From large-scale conferences and award ceremonies to intimate private dinners and stylish receptions, RIBA’s range of event spaces ensures complete flexibility for any occasion.
 
Modern Facilities in a Historic Setting
Despite its 1930s heritage, RIBA offers state-of-the-art facilities, including high-speed Wi-Fi, professional AV equipment, and customisable lighting, ensuring every event is executed flawlessly.
 
Prime Location in Central London
Situated between Oxford Circus and Regent’s Park, RIBA is easily accessible by tube, train, and road, making it a convenient venue for both London-based and international guests.
 
Expert Event Support & Catering
A dedicated in-house events team provides professional guidance from start to finish, ensuring every detail is handled with precision. The venue also offers bespoke catering solutions, from elegant canapés to full banqueting experiences.
 
Ideal for a Range of Events
  • Location: 66 Portland Place, London, W1B 1AD
  • Venue Type: Grade II* Listed Art Deco Building
  • Event Spaces: Florence Hall, RIBA Gallery, Jarvis Auditorium, Lutyens Room & more
  • Capacity: Up to 400 guests
  • Key Features: Historic architecture, flexible layouts, modern amenities, central London location
 
Book Your Event at the Royal Institute of British Architects
For those seeking a sophisticated and versatile venue in London, RIBA offers a seamless blend of history, innovation, and elegance. Whether you’re hosting a conference, wedding, product launch, or gala dinner, this venue guarantees an unforgettable experience.

  • Public Transport

    London City Airport | 9.6 miles

    Regents Park | 0.2 miles

    Great Portland Street | 0.3 miles

     

     

     

  • Capacity

    Reception | 400

    Dinner | 250

    Theatre | 300

  • Details

    Event Spaces | 11

    Meeting Rooms | 9

    Bedrooms | 0

Similar Venues

1. Venue Sourcing

What It Means: The process of identifying and securing the ideal venue for an event based on specific criteria such as capacity, location, amenities, and budget.
Why It’s Important: Venue sourcing is a critical first step in event planning, and clients often search for "venue sourcing tips" or "how to find the perfect venue." Including this term in your content can drive traffic from people in the early stages of planning.

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2. Event Production

What It Means: The behind-the-scenes coordination and execution of all technical and creative aspects of an event, including AV setup, stage design, lighting, and sound.
Why It’s Important: Many corporate clients and planners search for "event production services" or "event production companies" when looking for professional help with larger-scale events.

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3. Delegate Management

What It Means: The process of organising and overseeing the experience of attendees (delegates) at an event, including registration, communication, and follow-up.
Why It’s Important: This term is highly relevant for conferences and corporate events, where organisers often look for tools or services for "delegate management software" or "effective delegate management."

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4. Hybrid Events

What It Means: Events that combine in-person and virtual experiences, allowing attendees to participate both physically and digitally.
Why It’s Important: The rise of hybrid events means people frequently search for "how to host a hybrid event" or "hybrid event solutions," making it a powerful SEO keyword.

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5. Event ROI (Return on Investment)

What It Means: A metric used to measure the success of an event by comparing the financial or strategic benefits against the costs incurred.
Why It’s Important: Corporate clients often look for content around "event ROI strategies" or "how to measure event ROI" when justifying their event budgets.

 

Areas We Cover

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Y

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How to Pick Your Perfect Venue: Expert Tips and Common Pitfalls

Whether you're planning a corporate event, wedding, or private celebration, choosing the right venue is crucial. With so many options, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make the best decision and avoid costly mistakes.

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1. Define Your Event Objectives

  • What to Look For: Choose a venue that complements your event’s purpose. For instance, conferences require AV facilities, while weddings may need a picturesque backdrop.

  • Pitfall to Avoid: Not having a clear vision. Venues can be versatile, but not all are suitable for every event.

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2. Prioritise Location

  • What to Look For: Is the venue easy for guests to find? Consider proximity to transport links, parking availability, and accommodation options.

  • Pitfall to Avoid: Ignoring accessibility. Difficult-to-reach venues can discourage attendance.

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3. Assess Capacity and Layout

  • What to Look For: Ensure the venue fits your guest list comfortably, leaving space for activities, dining, and networking.

  • Pitfall to Avoid: Overcrowding or excess space. A venue that’s too small or too large can affect the atmosphere.

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4. Check Amenities and Services

  • What to Look For: Does the venue offer catering, AV equipment, or on-site staff? Confirm Wi-Fi availability and technical support for corporate events.

  • Pitfall to Avoid: Overlooking hidden fees for amenities. Some venues charge extra for basic facilities like table settings or projectors.

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5. Consider the Ambience

  • What to Look For: The décor and style should align with your event theme. A modern conference might clash with a rustic venue, for example.

  • Pitfall to Avoid: Choosing a venue based on photos alone. Visit in person or request a virtual tour.

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6. Review Restrictions

  • What to Look For: Check policies on noise levels, event timing, and decorations. Some venues restrict catering or alcohol providers.

  • Pitfall to Avoid: Overlooking restrictions that could limit your event vision.

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7. Compare Costs and Contracts

  • What to Look For: Ensure transparency in pricing. Get clarity on deposits, cancellation policies, and additional fees.

  • Pitfall to Avoid: Not reading the fine print. Hidden charges can inflate your budget.

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8. Evaluate Sustainability

  • What to Look For: Venues with sustainable practices, such as recycling programmes or energy-efficient lighting.

  • Pitfall to Avoid: Ignoring sustainability, especially if it aligns with your brand values or guest expectations.

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9. Seek Recommendations and Reviews

  • What to Look For: Ask for testimonials from previous clients and check online reviews.

  • Pitfall to Avoid: Skipping due diligence. A venue might look great but have poor service or reliability.

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Common Pitfalls When Choosing a Venue

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  • Booking Too Late: Popular venues get booked months (or years) in advance. Start your search early.

  • Not Considering Weather: Outdoor venues are charming but need contingency plans for rain or heat.

  • Underestimating Logistics: Failing to account for setup and teardown time can lead to scheduling issues.

  • Overlooking Vendor Compatibility: Some venues have preferred vendors; ensure yours can work with them.

  • Ignoring Venue Insurance: Always confirm that the venue has liability coverage.

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Final Tip: Get Expert Help

A venue-finding agency like Match My Venue can simplify the process. With access to unique spaces and industry insights, we’ll help you find the perfect venue, tailored to your needs.

Let Us Do The Hard Work

Finding the best conference venues for events can be challenging, especially in a bustling city like London. That’s where we come in! With our extensive network of London conference venues, we work closely with the city's top locations to secure the best deals and availability for your event. We understand that every conference is unique, and we focus on matching your specific needs with venues that offer the right facilities, from cutting-edge AV equipment to flexible meeting spaces. Let us find the perfect space for your event. We'll explore London's top conference venues to ensure a seamless and successful experience.

Why Use Match My Venue?

Our Services Are Free for Clients

At Match My Venue, our venue-finding service is completely free for clients. You can explore and book the perfect conference venue in London without any cost to you. We earn our commission directly from the venues or suppliers once your booking is confirmed. They pay us a percentage of the total event spend as a fee for introducing their space to your event. This way, you get the benefit of our expertise and network at no extra expense, ensuring a seamless and cost-effective venue search experience.

Best Price Guaranteed

With our deep knowledge of London venues and the teams that manage them, we ensure you get the best deal possible. We know when a quoted price truly reflects value, and we use our industry connections to negotiate on your behalf, securing the most competitive rates available. Our expertise means you can trust that you’re always getting the best price for your chosen venue, without any hassle.

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