Iconic Landmarks: The Hidden History of the OXO Tower

Nestled on the bustling South Bank, the OXO Tower is an iconic part of London’s creative scene. Known for housing some of the UK’s top contemporary designers, chic restaurants, bars, and galleries, it also boasts one of London’s most impressive event spaces and the home of Camm & Hooper, OXO2.

The OXO Tower’s rich history dates back to 1900 when the original building was constructed as a power station to supply electricity to the Post Office.

Back in the late 1920s, the Liebig Extract of Meat Company, famous for their OXO beef cubes, bought a building that was destined for fame. With advertising rules putting a damper on skyline ads along the River Thames, they turned to the inventive architect Albert Moore. He took on the challenge and brilliantly wove OXO’s branding right into the building’s architecture. Moore designed windows shaped like the letters “OXO, a simple yet striking move that cleverly sidestepped the advertising ban while putting the brand front and centre. Initially called Stamford Wharf, this smart design move gave the building a new identity, earning it the beloved name of the OXO Tower—a landmark that still mesmerises people today.

Over the years, the building faced many challenges. By the 1970s, it had fallen into disrepair, and there were multiple proposals to demolish the art deco structure. However, these were met with public opposition, and the building was ultimately saved by the Coin Street Community Builders. In the 1990s, it underwent a major refurbishment that revitalised the site, transforming it into a vibrant hub filled with social housing, restaurants, and galleries, which remain key features of the South Bank’s cultural landscape.

In 2022, Camm & Hooper took the reins of the iconic OXO2 space, introducing a new era for the venue under the banner of ‘The Next Chapter.’ With a reputation for transforming historical venues into stunning event spaces, Camm & Hooper breathed fresh life into OXO2, staying true to their mission of creating extraordinary event experiences in unique settings. The relaunch marked the first step in a broader vision to make OXO2 and other heritage sites—like 26 Leake Street and Platform Glasgow—central to the UK events scene.

Since the relaunch, OXO2 has hosted a series of high-profile events, cementing its status as a premier destination in London’s event scene. One of OXO2’s greatest strengths is its versatility—a blank canvas that allows any event to flourish and transform the venue into a bespoke experience. This flexibility has attracted notable names, including Marvel, with an exclusive Loki Pop-Up that thrilled Disney fans, and the prestigious Pure Beauty Global Awards 2024, celebrating the best in the beauty industry. OXO2 has also become a go-to spot for lifestyle brands, hosting the release of DFS’s SS23 Collection and London Fashion Week legend, Eudon Choi. Each event underscores Camm & Hooper’s vision of contributing to the creative events scene, delivering extraordinary experiences within this historic space.

The OXO Tower’s transformation from an industrial power station to an innovative event space is a testament to London’s ability to evolve while embracing its rich history. Now under the stewardship of Camm & Hooper, OXO2 is the ideal venue for unforgettable events, offering both modern style and historic charm. Whether you’re planning a fashion show, product launch, Christmas party, wedding or corporate event, OXO2’s flexible, blank canvas space can be tailored to your vision.

Get in touch with us today to explore how OXO2 can be the perfect setting for your next extraordinary event. Take the 3D tour here.