Project overview

South Hampstead School

Location: London, UK

South Hampstead School, a prestigious all-girls institution in London, caters to pupils aged 4 to 18 and is known for its academic excellence and forward-thinking ethos. After completing its new senior school building in 2015, the school turned its attention to a new ambition: transforming Waterlow Hall into a dynamic performance and assembly space that could serve both students and the wider community.

The vision was clear. South Hampstead wanted a contemporary, flexible venue that could host everything from theatrical performances and school assemblies to public events and examinations. The space needed to be practical, sustainable, and capable of supporting up to twelve distinct uses, all while maintaining a high standard of design and functionality.

Solution

To meet this ambitious brief, Hussey Seatway provided the Seatway TP retractable seating system, fitted with the elegant Gallery 3 chair. This solution allowed seating for up to 400 audience members, with the flexibility to reconfigure the space as needed. The facia boards were carefully matched to the hall interior finishes, creating a seamless and cohesive look. The chairs were upholstered in a bold, autumnal orange, adding warmth and vibrancy to the space.

Waterlow Hall officially reopened in 2020 as a state-of-the-art venue featuring tiered retractable seating, stunning wood panelling, and exceptional acoustics. Its transformation was met with acclaim, earning a spot on the shortlist for the Architects Journal Award in 2021.