April 16 2025

A historic private members club in Edinburgh will no longer turn its back on Princes Street with the engagement of Sutherland Hussey Harris to restore its civic presence.

The New Club will remodel the entrance and porch to their A-listed home by stripping back ad-hoc alterations made to the main entrance since it was built in 1969.

Originally conceived as an open entrance from the street the space has become encumbered by the installation of a cash machine and fire escape as well as covering up original features with carpet, ceiling tiles and roughcast.

Removing this clutter will allow the porch to be returned to a single-glazed opening, enabling the granite-lined interior to be fully appreciated and pulling the club out of the shadow of an Ann Summers store and a confectionary business. The glazed screen aligns with these shopfronts to prevent the accumulation of rubbish in any recess, establishing a secure entrance without the need for roller shutters.

In a design statement, the architects wrote: "By making the sliding door within the new screen asymmetrical it allows the re-establishment of the original entrance diagram: 2/3 width dedicated to Club entrance and 1/3 width for the stairs to the mezzanine.

"This rebalance enhances the Club entrance and resolves the issue with anonymity as well as providing a more practical entrance space for users in accordance with the current building regulations. The opportunity to tidy up services and various kit affixed to walls and ceilings is also welcome and further still enhances the original design features."

A large fan light will further enable the club to sit harmoniously within its retail setting instead of signage. 

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