Exhibition News January 2020 | Page 55

Venue Focus Church House Westminster: Church House Westminster was designed by Sir Herbert Baker in 1937, and opened as a venue in 1990. Whilst the venue may have a rich history, hosting the first UN Security Council meeting and home to the Houses of Parliament during WW2, it remains up to date with the latest event technology, after a £1m investment in audio-visual technology. Over the years, Church House Westminster has evolved from being a one- dimensional conference centre to a multi-purpose event venue; the venue contains 19 event spaces. Uncertainty around Brexit is currently affecting the venue, as it is making businesses hold back on making decisions until there is more certainty. However, the venue is not too concerned about its dip in bookings, as it believes things will improve throughout 2020. Church House hosts a large variety of events including the annual PinkNews Awards (2019), Children with Cancer, and the International Association of Women Judges. Future plans for the venue include increasing investment in audio-visual and event technology. The Mermaid London: In the 1950’s, Sir Ove Arup built The Mermaid London, then known as Mermaid Theatre; the first theatre in London since the time of Shakespeare. Since then, The Mermaid London has been enhanced, including the appointment of two partners; KUDOS, the venue’s catering partner and White Light, the venue’s event production partner, have invested £3m in new technology for the venue. The venue has also continuously refurbished its event spaces, including investing over £2.5m into its River Rooms, and over £250,000 into its Newgate Suite. The Mermaid London has nine event spaces, including the Auditorium, the only 600-seated auditorium in the City of London. The Auditorium also offers the ability to host a banquet on the stage for up to 450 people. Currently, The Mermaid London is focusing on sustainability, and is looking into initiatives to help improve its work towards being a greener venue. In the future, The Mermaid London is planning on improving the venue, including refurbishing and further investing into facilities, and appointing industry experts. January — 55