First established in 2000, the ExCeL Centre required further investment in order to host significant events. Grimshaw won the commission for ExCeL Phase II, which extended the existing structure by 32,500 sq m, creating more than100,000 sq m in total and forming an identifiable eastern entry to the 900-metre-long building.

Marked by a vibrant yellow spiral that announces the entrance from the DLR Prince Regent Station, the new extension contains a multi-purpose, highly flexible performing events building in which to host live concerts, trade exhibitions, conferences and banquets.

The 15-metre-tall spiral stands the full height of the building and envelops the foyer, extending into the central boulevard and serving as a landmark to navigate between different levels. Alongside this distinctive facade, the new hall respects the established scale and materials of ExCeL Phase I by echoing the mast structures along the extended central axis and using similar industrial cladding.

To prevent ‘exhibition fatigue’, large ETFE roof panels in the central boulevard flood the space with daylight, creating communal areas that are naturally lit and ventilated.