Projects hotels

German Gymnasium Grand Café & Restaurant, London

In this historic landmark — the first purpose-built gymnasium in England (designed by Edward A. Gruning and built in 1864–65 for the German Gymnastics Society founded by Ernst Ravenstein) — Muzéo collaborated with Conran+Partners to create an unforgettable artistic experience. The venue famously hosted the indoor events of the first National Olympian Games in 1866, a forerunner to today’s Olympic movement, while outdoor events took place at Crystal Palace and on the Thames. Today it is Grade II listed and sits between King’s Cross and St Pancras; following a sensitive redesign by Conran+Partners, it reopened as a restaurant in 2015, retaining features such as the remarkable laminated timber roof trusses. For this remarkable site, Muzéo’s creative direction drew upon its signature expertise, working alongside Conran+Partners to deliver a thoughtful and layered approach to the venue’s transformation. The visuals and wallpaper were conceived to capture the spirit of athleticism and celebration, using wit and refinement to honour both the building’s architectural character and its social history. Through carefully curated designs, the visuals reinterpreted the venue’s storied past while introducing a contemporary language, reflecting its evolution from a pioneering gymnasium to a vibrant destination. Muzéo’s contribution paid homage to the site’s heritage while subtly echoing the energy and optimism of its early sporting years. The result is an environment that is both engaging and resonant, striking a harmonious balance between past, present, and future — a setting that invites visitors to connect meaningfully with the venue’s layered identity.