The O2

A live music first was announced today as The O2 unveiled dream design options for their VIP suite holders.

When the venue (on the site of the former Millennium Dome) opens in July 2007, suite owners will be able to order from a selection of custom-ready bespoke dream interiors, inspired by music genres from rock to urban, all conceived by designer to the stars, Christopher Ciccone.

Three decades of experience in high profile stage, set and interior design, that include sister Madonna’s Girlie Show and Blonde Ambition tours, has seen Ciccone work with celebrities such as Dolly Parton, and his designs gracing residences from Demi Moore to Bill Clinton’s New York City office.

The 96 suites are split over the 2nd and 3rd levels of the 23,000 capacity arena. There are two different options - suites are either 40m² or 48m² and can accommodate 15 or 18 guests. All of the suites open onto the main arena - none of them have a glass front - and the seats are in the bowl of the arena to enhance the live music experience. The O2 will transform the traditional décor to a fantasy world that matches the style of performer.

Prototype designs, showcased for the first time today, include a ‘play along’ drum kit and original rock-star memorabilia in the full leather surroundings of a ‘Rock Room’; elements including a throne, a fish tank as a table and ceramic leopards surrounded by monogrammed walls make the ‘Bling Box’ the only way to enjoy an Urban gig; whilst all would-be divas out there can pay proper homage to their heroines with the ‘Suitey Darling’ order, in an atmosphere of sheer indulgence surrounded by white shag pile with pink satin walls and ceiling, whilst you receive a manicure and sip champagne served by semi-clad personal butlers.

Ciccone said: "These aren’t your traditional corporate suites - all the concepts are designed to ensure people enjoy their live music experience to the full. It’s a wonderful opportunity to be given a blank canvas for people to have the time of their lives in a dream environment while actually being at a concert."

David Campbell, President and CEO of AEG Europe, said: "These unique makeovers allow the space to be utilized in a completely novel and fresh way and the suite holders to host an unforgettable evening at a live gig. It's the best of both worlds that have never come together before. We’ve been encouraged by the take-up on the suites so far, two thirds of which have already gone over a year before opening and hopefully this will inspire people to think about how they can enjoy their suites in a whole new way."

The ‘Suite Dreams’ scheme will be available for the venue’s opening season in July 2007 at an additional fee per event. Open to suite owners, a full menu of options with price list will be made available nearer the time. In addition to The O2 Arena, the venue is host to a 2,200 capacity Live Music Club, 11 screen cinema, exhibition and theatre spaces as well as bars and restaurants all in a purpose-built street which wraps around the arena.