THE HOUSE OF KOKO
Unprecedented backstage access, redefining live music and entertainment
THE HOUSE
OF KOKO
PRIVATE MEMBERS CLUB
London, UK
A creative collaboration anchored in a richly layered narrative, and a design paying homage to the history of the timeless, iconic Koko theatre, from its colourful Victorian origins to the bohemian lifestyles of its many past performers.
Taking inspiration from how a theatre would live and breathe, we created bespoke Interior Design and furniture over 4 floors, each room with its own identity, referencing the theatre’s creative history throughout. All new 16 spaces are carefully connected to one another, providing members of The House of KOKO with a constant sense of adventure and discovery through the building.
People flow from room to room discovering new spaces and experiences making every visit a different experience.
From the Stage Kitchen which takes inspiration from the ironmongery; to the bathrooms, inspired by backstage hair and make-up rooms where performers would get ready. Influenced by the old screen-printing rooms, Ellen’s Jazz club features a hand-painted mural, whilst intimate vinyl rooms reference what could have been KOKO’s old lighting storage rooms.
The concept for KOKO elevates the notion of a music venue with a textural alchemy of the site's creative history, a mix of sensitivity, respect for the location and cultural legacy of the space.
PIRAJEAN LEES SCOPE
Full Interior design scheme
Coordination of M&E into the design
Layouts, room distribution
Bespoke finishes and joinery
Bespoke furniture design
Bespoke decorative lighting
PARTNERS
Client: Olly Bengough
Architect: Archer Humphryes Architects
Photographers: Leslie Lau, Polly Tootal