The Arding & Hobbs building in Clapham Junction has undergone a significant refurbishment in the last three years, revitalizing its historic architecture while introducing modern amenities. Originally established in 1910 as one of South London's first purpose-built department stores, the building has been transformed into an incredible mixed-use space, combining retail, leisure, and contemporary workspaces. On the ground floor you will find Botanica Hall, which as its name suggests, is decorated with botanical plant-themes, alongside exposed brickwork and general industrial chic touches.

Botanica Hall is also known for its in-house distillery and such makes it the perfect venue for your cocktail party. As a Clapham-based event photographer Lily and Tom approached me to shoot their engagement party and hired The Olive Bar in Botanica Hall, and area that can comfortably house 80 guests and comes with its own bar and bartender.

Lily and Tom’s Engagement Party Photography in Botanica Hall

A large pink neon sign saying 'PARTY' on the wall in Clapham Junction's Botanica Hall.

Engaged couple pose for photograph in The Olive Bar within Botanica Hall in Clapham Junction.

Engaged couple chat with two guests in Botanica Hall in Clapham Junction.

Engaged lady hugs friends as they arrive at her engagement party in Botanica Hall in Clapham Junction.

Engaged lady chats with two friends at engagement party in Botanica Hall in Clapham Junction.

Engaged lady smiles at two friends at engagement party in Botanica Hall in Clapham Junction.

Botanica Hall also has its own wood-fired pizza oven - which make a great and inexpensive way to feed your guests.

Several pizzas sit on table in front of engagement presents in Botanica Hall.

Engaged girl poses with her three girlfriends for a photograph at her party in Botanica Hall.

Guest chat at an engagement party in Botanica Hall.

Guest laugh while looking at a phone at an engagement party in Botanica Hall.

Four girls pose for a photograph at a party in Botanica Hall.

Friends chat at bar in Botanica Hall while drinks are being poured for them.

Guest chat at the bar during an engagement party in Botanica Hall.

GET IN TOUCH

Wandsworth Common is one of my favourite outdoor spaces in South West London and as it’s in my neighbourhood you can often see me walking my doggie there when not doing photoshoots! I love the colour at the moment and the variety of backgrounds and textures - an engagement and wedding photographer’s dream!

So when Caroline and Michael approached me for an engagement shoot I jumped at the chance and especially when they told me they were bringing their doggie Zoe along! We met outside The Hope pub on Bellevue Road and walked across the road from there.

These are some of my favourite images from the day..