Battersea Evolution has opened a new, more intimate events space for SMEs and businesses of 500 to 700 employees or less.

The new Mezzanine level comes following research that showed 21 per cent of companies surveyed would be interested in booking events at Battersea Evolution if a smaller space was offered on site.

The space is open for the 2015 Christmas season, and will give guests panoramic views of the ‘New York, New York’ theme that Smart Christmas Parties is delivering for the season, including the Rockefeller tree outside the venue and a staircase over a recreation of Central Park. Bespoke additions, including mix and mingle entertainment, photo booths and late night dining is also available.

The Mezzanine level got its first work out for the inaugural Rugby Captains Dinner, where it hosted a VIP pre-dinner reception.

“The Mezzanine level has lifted the potential of Battersea Evolution and opened up a whole host of new opportunities for the venue,” said Andrew Hodgkins, group managing director, events. “The ability to be able to offer a more versatile product to the short-lead Christmas market is appealing.

“The Mezzanine also gives us the ability to compete in the conferencing sector, where breakout space and natural daylight are increasingly popular. It puts us at a real advantage in an area of the capital where versatile venues are few and far between.”

Battersea Evolution is part owned and operated by Smart Group Ltd.