The Sloane Club | London

Established in 1922 by Princess Helena, The Sloane Club has long been woven into the cultural and social fabric of Chelsea. First founded as the Service Women’s Club for female officers of the Armed Forces before evolving into the Helena Club, it became one of London’s most distinguished private members’ environments, eventually opening membership to men in 1976. Now, following a significant refurbishment, the Club welcomes members into a reimagined setting that honours its legacy while embracing a new generation.

The renewed interiors celebrate craftsmanship, heritage and narrative. The lighting design supports this vision with a layered and adaptive approach that responds to the building’s diverse programmes, from wellness and dining to arrival, socialising and private events. Throughout, the aim was to create atmosphere that feels considered, balanced and rooted in the Club’s distinct identity.

Integrating Human-Centric Commercial Lighting

The reception required particular precision due to its reflective surfaces. Light is controlled and softened, maintaining clarity while ensuring the space remains elegant and composed. On the terrace, home to Lila, the new restaurant, the retractable ceiling introduced a technical challenge. Lighting is positioned to work seamlessly whether the space is open to daylight or enclosed, ensuring the environment remains welcoming in every condition.

In the wellness areas, cooler tones support activity while decorative pieces ensure warmth and comfort. Front-of-house spaces take on a more expressive palette, with feature luminaires used as sculptural gestures. Architectural lighting is integrated discreetly to preserve visual calm, supporting the material richness of the interiors without distraction.

The Demob Bar embodies the characterful heart of the project. With no natural light and a tented illuminated ceiling, the room is shaped through layered accent and decorative lighting, supported by intimate table pieces and a striking back-lit onyx bar. The private dining rooms, each with its own tone and personality, demonstrate the flexibility of the lighting strategy, balancing daylight conditions, evening ambience and event requirements. As a result, we the commercial lighting scheme that enhances the architectural rhythm, supports the interior design vision and delivers the atmosphere expected of a world-class private members’ club.

Completed and now open to its members, The Sloane Club reflects a collaboration with Russell Sage Studio, shaped by shared ambition and thoughtful dialogue. Together, the team has contributed to the ongoing legacy of this historic institution, ensuring it remains an inspiring and long-lasting destination for the future generation.