The Maida Vale studios in west London is one of the capital’s most historic recording studios. Belonging to the BBC for nearly 80 years, the complex was home to the BBC Symphony Orchestra and hosted recording sessions by pop and rock royalty.
The BBC announced its closure in 2020, but in 2023, a group led by famed composer Hans Zimmer bought the complex with hopes of restoring the studios to their former glory.
Initial plans for a revamp at the £10 million valued studios have now been shared by the group, which includes Zimmer (The Lion King, Interstellar), and his business manager Steven Kofsky, alongside film producers Tim Bevan and Eric Fellner, as reported by the BBC.
On a dedicated website, MVS Partnership LLP have outlined their plans to improve the structure of the studios, as well as three new “state-of-the-art” studios for writing and composing.
As consultations for the work begin, the group have proposed a “retrofit-first approach with sustainable design to improve energy efficiency.” The group have cited carbon concerns with the demolition of the building, and are proposing to retain much of its existing fabric to “minimise” the impact.
The group is yet to submit a formal planning application to Westminster City Council. You can read the full consultation here.
From 1946, the complex was a regular fixture in BBC broadcasts, featuring on Radio 1, 2, 3 and in filmed television episodes on BBC One and more.
In 1967, it became the home of the Peel Sessions, hosted by BBC Radio DJ John Peel and hosted iconic performances by The Smiths, David Bowie, Dusty Springfield and Fleetwood Mac.
Upon news of the purchase in 2023, Zimmer said that the goal was to “make Maida Vale Studios a place that inspires, teaches, technologically serves the arts and humanity, and gives the next generation the same opportunities I was given: to create and to never give up.” The online consultation will run until October 11.