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Following the merging of Southbank Sinfonia and St John’s Smith Square in 2021, the joint organisation has been developing plans for a reinvigorated building to mark the 20th anniversary of the creation of Southbank Sinfonia. The newly regenerated St John’s Smith Square will offer a permanent home for a renowned orchestral fellowship programme and act as a beacon for the future of classical music, embracing versatility and innovation in everything from great symphonies to bold new musical adventures.

A masterpiece of English Baroque architecture, St John’s Smith Square was designed and built by Thomas Archer and has survived fire, lightning, bomb plots and the Blitz. The beauty of the building is matched by an exceptional acoustic and from its restoration as both church and concert hall in the late 1960s, St John’s has presented some of the finest classical talent in a programme featuring choirs, chamber orchestras and period instrument groups.

Proposed Works

The proposed works fall into three broad categories:

- External repairs as identified in the last Quinquennial Report;

- Improvements to mechanical & electrical services within the building to enhance user experience and environmental performance; and

- Staging and seating improvements within the main body of the building and in the galleries.

We are currently applying for funding to undertake the work and anticipate starting on-site sometime during 2026.

Should you have any questions about the project, or would like to speak to one of our team, please contact Rosie Fraser, Chief Executive, at [email protected]


We want to hear from you

In addition to undertaking repairs and improvements to the building, we are looking to expand our Education and Engagement Programme. We want to ensure we're providing the best possible experience at St John's Smith Square - please support us by filling our this survey, letting us know which activities and facilities would be of interest to you. 

Take the survey