The epitome of industrial chic, the incredible events spaces at The Engine Rooms have come speeding onto the north London scene just in time for party season.
Paul Michaels is a well-known and liked figure in Highgate – for almost 60 years he has been selling classic cars from his dealership, Hexagon, one of the finest in Europe. But he has been branching out and cars are just the tip of the iceberg for Paul and his team. Last year, he teamed up with wine expert Bert Blaize to open Bottles ‘N’ Jars, an artisanal deli and luxury wine store on the site of the showroom, and this summer saw the opening of The Engine Rooms, a design-led restaurant, together with a specialty wine cellar and bar.
Combining beautiful classic cars, the extensive modern art collection of Michael’s late wife, and a Mediterranean inspired all-day menu, The Engine Rooms – on Great North Road – creates a truly unique lifestyle experience. Food is overseen by Head Chef James Harrison, formally of Taka Marylebone, while the exciting wine list has been put together by Bert Blaize.
With the restaurant already receiving rave reviews, thanks to some very special private hire spaces, The Engine Rooms looks set to become North London’s premier event venue, too. The event spaces surround Paul’s collections, creating a truly unique atmosphere for both business and personal events. In fact, all the spaces within The Engine Rooms have an industrial feel that is keeping the ambiance true to its roots.
The V8 Room is the smallest of the event spaces, hosting anywhere from 10-50 people. Styled in a simple but contemporary way, floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with natural light, whilst beautiful ceramics and exceptional art adorn the walls. An intimate space, it is ideal for private dinners, meetings or drink receptions.
The V12 Room is the perfect blank canvas, allowing clients to put their own touch on the unique setting, whether that is dinners, drink receptions, brand launches, conferences, large business lunches, or even a wedding with a twist. Designed to host up to 150 people, this space is versatile and adaptable with a more industrial vibe – perfect for taking any event from daytime to evening.
The Showroom itself can be transformed after hours to provide seating for 200 guests or enough space for 300 guests standing. With its breath-taking glass ceilings, it is a truly a dramatic setting for anything from fashion shows to award ceremonies, and it can even be hired as a filming location.
Throughout all of the spaces, an art collection meticulously sourced by Paul’s late wife, and curated by Natasha Michaels and Ben Mclaughlin, adds to the overall charm and atmosphere. The building exhibits one-of-a-kind pieces including a rare ex-motor show Jaguar engine and original pieces from the Ferrari Museum. Memorabilia from Paul’s racing days, when Hexagon Racing was the most successful private entry into the Formula One Championship, are tastefully dotted here and there, completing the overall look. Fascinating for more than just car-lovers.
With the perfect space sorted, you can be assured that things will run smoothly, thanks to an in-house event management team supported by an impressive list of preferred suppliers, including caterers, production companies, florists, videographers and photographers. The perfect event is one you don’t have to worry about and hosting one at The Engine Rooms really would be worry-free with such experts taking care of it.
82-92 Great N Rd, N2 0NL (theenginerooms.co.uk/)