ExCeL London Phase 3 is a landmark redevelopment that transforms the eastern edge of Royal Victoria Docks into a flexible, high-performance public realm. Led by Grimshaw as principal architect, the project brings together architecture and landscape to respond to the site’s dual role as a civic environment and international event venue—balancing local accessibility with global reach. Designed to accommodate fluctuating footfall from exhibitions, conferences, and major events, the scheme repositions the waterfront as a civic, cultural, and ecological asset for East London.

A defining feature of the design is the seamless integration of the Formula E race circuit into the public realm and architectural interface—allowing the site to shift between everyday use and large-scale event mode without compromising spatial quality or safety. This dual-purpose approach ensures the landscape remains active, legible, and welcoming throughout the year.

Rooted in the dockland’s industrial and maritime heritage, the landscape adopts a modular design language that supports changing cultural, recreational, and ecological programmes. A kit-of-parts framework—featuring reconfigurable furniture, planters, and public space elements—enables the public realm to adapt over time, supporting future flexibility and ongoing activation.

Biophilic planting strategies, nature-based drainage systems, and dock-edge enhancements contribute to environmental performance, while the design’s integration with the Royal Docks Public Realm Framework ensures strategic alignment with wider regeneration goals. ExCeL London Phase 3 sets a precedent for event-integrated placemaking—grounded in local identity, ecological resilience, and inclusive urban design.