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Can florals transform an iconic setting? At the Old Royal Naval College, the answer is a quiet but resounding yes.
For the first-ever Dojo Ball, held within the breathtaking Painted Hall at the Old Royal Naval College in London, Wildabout Flowers designed an evening where florals didn’t compete with the architecture - they elevated it. Against one of the most extraordinary interiors in the world, the flowers brought warmth, movement and a sense of contemporary elegance to a historic space.
A Setting Like No Other: The Old Royal Naval College
The Painted Hall at the Old Royal Naval College is known for its dramatic baroque ceilings, gilded detailing and grand scale. It’s a venue that demands a thoughtful approach - anything too heavy risks overwhelming the space, while anything too minimal disappears.
Wildabout’s design struck that balance perfectly.
Soft, atmospheric lighting washed across the columns and ceiling, enhancing the rich tones of the historic artwork, while the florals introduced a layered palette of deep burgundy, fresh greens and soft whites- tones that felt both modern and timeless within the setting.
A Grand Floral Welcome
Guests arriving at the Old Royal Naval College were welcomed by a series of sculptural, asymmetrical arrangements placed on stone plinths and classic urns.
These designs were deliberately architectural - echoing the columns and symmetry of the venue - yet softened through movement. Cascading amaranthus draped elegantly over the edges, while clusters of hydrangea, roses, anthuriums and calla lilies created depth and contrast.
Touches of near-black calla lilies added drama, punctuating the softer whites and greens, while burgundy elements subtly referenced the richness of the evening ahead.
The result was a refined entrance moment: understated, but undeniably striking.
Tablescapes: Deconstructed Elegance
Inside the Painted Hall at the Old Royal Naval College, the floral design shifted scale.
Rather than traditional centrepieces, Wildabout created deconstructed floral “tufts” across the dining tables. These arrangements felt intentionally loose and organic - low enough to encourage conversation, yet detailed enough to reward a closer look.
Clusters of delicate blooms - ranunculus, roses, hydrangea and textural green elements - were paired with warm candlelight and soft lamp glow, creating an intimate atmosphere beneath the grandeur of the hall.
The interplay of light was key. Glassware, candle holders and metallic accents reflected the ambient glow, allowing the florals to feel alive within the space as the evening unfolded.
A Statement Bar Installation
One of the standout floral moments at the Old Royal Naval College was the bar.
Here, Wildabout introduced a dramatic cascade of deep wine and burgundy tones, flowing through the arrangement with a sense of movement and richness. The florals appeared almost to spill over the bar, drawing guests in and creating a natural focal point within the room.
Set against the backdrop of the Painted Hall’s historic artwork and the energy of the evening, this installation added a contemporary edge - bold, immersive and unforgettable.
Florals That Complement, Not Compete
Designing for a venue like the Old Royal Naval College is always about restraint as much as creativity.
The florals were never intended to overshadow the Painted Hall. Instead, they were designed to sit in harmony with the architecture, enhancing the experience of the space rather than distracting from it.
Through careful colour selection, sculptural placement and a balance of scale, Wildabout ensured that every arrangement felt considered - each one contributing to a cohesive, layered atmosphere.
A Celebration of People, Place and Achievement
The Dojo Ball was more than just an event - it was a celebration of people, energy and achievement. Hosted to honour Dojo’s top performers, the evening brought together leadership and teams in one of London’s most iconic venues.
Within the Old Royal Naval College, the combination of history, atmosphere and thoughtful floral design created something truly memorable: an evening that felt both grand and personal.
Creating Impact at the Old Royal Naval College
This event is a perfect example of how florals can transform even the most iconic venues.
At the Old Royal Naval College, Wildabout Flowers demonstrated that impactful design doesn’t need to be overwhelming. With the right palette, placement and attention to detail, flowers can quietly take centre stage - enhancing the architecture, shaping the mood and elevating the entire guest experience.
Credits
Organisers: Dojo
Venue: Old Royal Naval College
Planner: Jack Doheny and Charlotte Lov for TOMMY’S
Photography: Barry Scowen
Flowers: Wildabout Flowers
AV: Velvet Living
Live Music: Its Red Red Red
DJ: DJ Just Craig