£500,000 grant to save iconic Westminster building
The Julia Rausing Trust is pleased to announce a £500,000 grant to Sinfonia Smith Square to support its ‘Doors Open’ capital project that will restore the iconic Smith Square Hall in Westminster.
The £22m project represents a generation-defining investment in the future of the Hall, and the Trust’s support marks a significant milestone in the campaign, helping Sinfonia Smith Square move closer to realising its vision of a more inclusive, resilient, and environmentally responsible cultural hub for world-class music.
The project will safeguard this nationally significant Grade I listed building and renowned concert venue. Currently on Historic England’s Heritage at Risk Register, the restoration programme will ensure that the Hall not only survives but thrives for generations to come.
Rosie Fraser, Chief Executive of Sinfonia Smith Square, said: “This generous grant from The Julia Rausing Trust reflects our shared vision of transforming Smith Square Hall into a world-class home for musicians and audiences for generations to come. The project’s name, Doors Open, captures both our architectural ambitions, and our commitment to offering an accessible, inclusive programme of exceptional music to all that visit. This investment marks a major milestone in delivering that ambition.”
Anne Dodwell, Director – Arts & Heritage at The Julia Rausing Trust, said: “We are delighted to support Sinfonia Smith Square’s ‘Doors Open’ Project, which will not only remove Smith Square Hall off the Heritage At Risk Register, but also revitalise the building into a modern concert and events space in the heart of Westminster. We hope this project inspires new audiences and musicians alike.”
12th December 2025