London’s best blank canvas venues available for dry hire

By Carrie Larwood, July 22, 2014

This is a classic blank canvas venue, with a warehouse feel and a totally empty space in which you can let your imagination run riot. Theming companies and decorators will be pleased to hear that the sturdy steel beams can hold heavy weights, and you’re welcome to drape them in material or lights, as long as health and safety regulations are followed carefully.

The 255sq. m. of rectangular floor space offers white walls, and frosted skylights mean you can shut out the world while still letting the sun inside. A kitchen space is provided, along with a reception hall and extensive toilet facilities, and this venue also benefits from having its own alcohol license, Internet and outdoor courtyard.

ICAN Studios, E2

Offering the ideal events space for a makeshift club night or lavish themed party, this double-height space offers enough space for 1000 people standing and features a mezzanine, large empty floor space, and built-in stage specifically designed to host bands, DJs and entertainers.

In a convenient location just off Hackney Wick, there’s also a ready-made smoking area here that looks out onto an enormous courtyard (available separately as a blank canvas outdoor venue), as well as 3 other smaller rooms, ideal for chill out areas or somewhere to set up a bar/catering.

The October Gallery, WC1

This versatile venue has been finished to a high specification, and offers three stunning spaces with high ceilings, plenty of natural light and good quality hardwood floors. You can build your environment from scratch here, and the bright white walls mean bold colours make a big impact. The building is Victorian, and as such, boasts a wealth of character features.

Offering three events spaces, there’s a light and airy gallery with tall sash windows, towering vaulted ceiling and professional lighting rig. There’s also a courtyard garden which comes as bare and ready to be transformed as the interior, and there’s a fully equipped kitchen space for self-catering food prep.

For additional space, you can also hire the Club Room – a welcoming and tranquil meeting room holding 40 people with armchairs, low tables, tall bookcases, a stained glass window and an open fire.