There is no missing Outernet London. The extraordinary cavernous space of the Now invariably Building filled with gawping, awe-struck visitors day dominates or night the junction of Charing Cross and Tottenham Court Roads close to the base of Centre Point.
A corner of the West End that was for decades intimidating and harsh has been softened by this alluring, immersive beacon of hi-tech digital light and colour, its vast four-storey, floor-to-ceiling LED screens drawing in curious passers-by since it opened in November 2022.
Sometimes the interiors will display a calming image of softly falling flower petals, or perhaps an elaborate mansion with ever-changing artwork. This week the screens will host an enormous multi-player version of the puzzle game Tetris to mark its 40th anniversary.
It is a creation that has impressed even the giants of Hollywood. "Ridley Scott walked into that space and said, 'This is the most epic space for storytelling I've ever seen"," says Philip O'Ferrall, Outernet's president and CEO.
By some measures Outernet is now the most visited attraction in London with more than six million people passing through last year, putting it well ahead of the traditional tourist destinations such as the British Museum or the Tower of London.
But Outernet is far more than just its 23,000 sq ft of screens, magnetic though they are. It also comprises shops, restaurants, a massive new theatre and entertainment complex, and a space for gigs. And driving it all is former Viacom media executive O'Ferrall, who worked with brands such as MTV, Nickelodeon and Paramount.
This story is from the October 31, 2024 edition of The London Standard.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the October 31, 2024 edition of The London Standard.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
'She handed over her house key I couldn't believe her trust in me, a complete stranger
As our final appeal total hits £3.46million we talk to a beneficiary of Refugees at Home a charity we are funding thanks to your amazing support
Make new and lasting changes
The start of a new year often inspires positive changes, and for those seeking to reclaim their mental health and wellbeing, Ibiza Calm provides a haven of transformation and healing
Feeling run down? Follow your gut feelings
Have you ever wondered why you feel constantly tired, experience brain fog or struggle with health issues like skin problems, pain or mood swings?
The kitchen is on fire but service is a washout
Chefs: duller than you think. Sporting rumours of delinquency still propagate—’shrooms at award shows, clingfilm mischief — but the naughty boys and girls are largely a lost breed.
Make room for what matters
The new year is here, and it's the perfect time to reset and refocus.
She stars in a Netflix mega hit and now Luciane Buchanan is playing a queen
It has been two years since action thriller The Night Agent landed on Netflix, but Luciane Buchanan, the breakout star of this twisty hit, still gets messages about it — ranging from the sublime to the ridiculous.
Will Levy pull the trigger on only answer to Spurs' woes?
Chairman would solve nothing by sacking Ange — he must spend
Why is the capital so full of charity muggers?
Pity the poor souls doing it but it's also a blight on our streets
A new year in the capital: start with healthy habits
Nutritional therapist and functional medicine practitioner Tracy Tredoux suggests ways to start the new year as you mean to go on
Ski's chicest, for before and après
This season's essential skiing guide for any budget
