Laban

In 1997 the Swiss architects of Tate Modern, Herzog & de Meuron won the international design competition to build a home for the Laban Dance Conservatoire, in Deptford Creek, South-East London. The Architects collaborated with artist and Goldsmiths College art guru Michael Craig-Martin to create stunning exterior features. The building is wrapped in a revolutionary semi-translucent, coloured polycarbonate punctuated by large clear windows, (similar to the box illuminating Tate Modern’s chimney). The intention was to create an inspiring focal point for the local community and the effect at night is stunning, turning the building into a glowing beacon. Recently the building has been used as a video location for the Eric Prydz’s hit dance track ‘Call On Me.’

The design of the building has been designed to reflect the fluid movement of dance. Colour plays a key role giving distinct moods to different areas of the building. There are also beautiful light wells, some decorated with water or mosses, which penetrate deep into the interior of the building from the roof. The main theatre space acts as the heart of the building with corridors, interior corridors and meeting spaces structured around it.

The Concourse is an explosion of colour, containing the Laban Wall Drawing by Martin Craig Martin. This area can be enhanced by digital film projections and sound installations. Other spaces to hire include 300-seat Bonnie Bird Theatre, Lecture Theatre, 12 dance studios which are perfect for fashion, film and photography shoots. The Laban also has a unique outdoor theatre, with landscape garden design by Vogt Architects. Designed as a performance space, the main building provides a spectacular backdrop to any event. Although more suited to the summer months, the Laban can provide a marquee to cope with all weather conditions.

Event Types

Wedding Reception.