London's KOKO is closing for huge redevelopment plan

28 February 2019, 14:01 | Written by Cerys Kenneally

(News)

Camden's iconic venue KOKO is about to close its doors to undergo a year-long refurbishment and expansion.

The redevelopment will cost £40 million, and will see the venue reopen with the inclusion of two adjacent buildings, and a renovated rooftop area. 20,000sqft of new spaces are expected to be added, while still keeping its iconic 1500 capacity main venue space.

Designed by Pirajean Lees and architect David Archer (Chiltern Firehouse), the transformation will bring six new venue spaces, a radio and broadcast station, as well as three new restaurants and a rooftop conservatory/terrace.

Tha venue's stage has recently hosted Charlotte Gainsbourg, Azealia Banks, and Jimothy Lacoste. Since being renamed as KOKO in 2004, the Camden venue has hosted Kanye West, Skepta, Dua Lipa, and more.

Olly Bengough, owner of KOKO since 2004, explains, "KOKO has always taken great pride in our innovative approach and we can see that our audience want a 360-degree experience in the future and it’s our duty to deliver that, to cut out the unknowns of going to a venue our size, most of which haven’t changed since the 1950s...This isn’t just about offering a music venue. In the Camden spirit of independence, auteur-ship and eccentricity, we want to offer an unrivalled experience."

KOKO's first closing party will be held this saturday (2 March), with the second on 5 March, with details announced the day before. The venue is scheduled to open its doors again in Spring 2020. Find out more.