East India ClubHeritage Club Refurbishment

Value:

£1.5m

Timescale:

15 weeks

Standing prominently on St James Sq, The East India club has been established since the mid 19th Century.

Refurbished hallway featuring decorative blue and white tiled walls and flooring, complemented by modern ceiling and wall-mounted lighting. A glass display case showcasing trophies adds a focal point, blending heritage elements with a clean, contemporary fit out that enhances both functionality and visual interest.

This heritage club refurbishment focused on restoring the back-of-house and basement areas to reflect the quality and character of the front-of-house spaces. Our approach balanced careful restoration with modern upgrades, creating improved facilities while respecting the building’s historic character.

Over many years, alterations and fit-out works had changed the basement considerably. Therefore, our team carefully stripped back these additions before introducing new high-quality systems and finishes.

Restoring the Building’s Heritage

Structural alterations formed an important part of the project. For example, our team created an opening between two vaulted arches to connect previously separate areas.

We also commissioned bespoke wall tiles for the new passage. These complemented the surrounding architecture and helped the new connection feel established within the historic setting.

Elsewhere, we opened up several smaller offices and cupboards to create a new gym and changing complex. The improved facilities now provide modern amenities for members and their guests.

Introducing Modern Member Facilities

In addition, we repurposed a disused meeting room to create a modern food preparation kitchen. This upgrade supports an enhanced dining experience for members.

The introduction of The Den also created a dedicated area for relaxation and tranquillity. Quarry floor tiles complement the restored jack arch ceiling, reinforcing the character of the basement.

Meanwhile, our team revealed and enhanced the same ceiling construction within the Snooker Room. This approach celebrates the building’s original architectural features rather than concealing them.

Mechanical and Electrical Upgrades

Alongside the heritage works, our team completed a comprehensive mechanical and electrical upgrade. This presented a significant challenge within the densely serviced basement.

Over time, successive additions had created a complex network serving the existing offices and storage areas. As a result, careful coordination played an essential role in delivering the new systems successfully.

Heritage Refurbishment in a Live Club

Importantly, the Club remained fully operational throughout the works. Therefore, our team carefully planned each stage to minimise disruption to members, neighbours and the surrounding area.

Ultimately, we completed the heritage club refurbishment on programme and within the agreed budget. The finished spaces successfully combine restored architectural character with modern amenities and upgraded building services.

The project also demonstrates the value of sensitive refurbishment within a prestigious historic setting. We are proud to include the completed scheme within the Virtus portfolio.

Project Gallery

Refurbished snooker room featuring two green baize tables under warm pendant lighting. The fit out includes traditional wall-mounted scoreboards, framed memorabilia, and a heritage-inspired interior scheme. Carefully curated lighting and finishes reflect a design approach that balances functionality with classic recreational charm.

Elegantly refurbished lounge space featuring rich red walls, curated equestrian artwork, and a mix of upholstered seating. Warm lighting and classic furnishings—including a glass-fronted display cabinet—create a refined, intimate atmosphere. The fit out blends traditional charm with thoughtful design, ideal for hospitality or heritage-inspired interiors.

Modern public restroom interior featuring a clean fit out with wall-mounted sinks, expansive mirrors, and dark vertical tiling contrasted by light-painted surfaces. Integrated fixtures like a hand dryer and concealed stall access reflect a streamlined refurbishment focused on hygiene, accessibility, and contemporary design.

Modern locker room interior featuring a clean fit out with white lockers, integrated sink and mirror unit, and a frosted glass door marked with “M.” The design reflects a high-spec refurbishment prioritising privacy, hygiene, and contemporary styling—ideal for workplace wellness facilities or gym environments.

Contemporary restroom interior featuring a high-spec fit out with frosted glass stall doors, integrated mirrors, and a clean layout. Design details include a wall-mounted urinal, open shelving with rolled towels, and a wicker basket for added texture. The space reflects a premium refurbishment, balancing hygiene, privacy, and modern aesthetics.

Refurbished men’s restroom featuring a sleek fit out with a row of sensor-equipped urinals, framed artwork, and a long vanity counter with integrated sinks and mirrors. The black and white checkered flooring adds a bold design element, while the layout and finishes reflect a modern, high-spec approach.

Awards and Accreditations

We are committed to being recognised as a modern forward thinking construction company and realise the importance of meeting the standards and expectations of our customers and in recognition of this we are members of Constructionline and CHAS, whilst also having accreditation under ISO9001 & ISO1400.