Inside The Sloane Club’s Transformation: A Conversation with Neena Jivraj Stevenson

For more than a century, The Sloane Club has been a discreet cornerstone of Chelsea life. Its walls have witnessed decades of conversation, connection and quiet elegance. Yet even the most established institutions must evolve to remain relevant.

In recent years, the Club has undertaken a considered transformation that honours its heritage while embracing the way members live, work and socialise today. The result is a space that feels as timeless as it does contemporary, with each detail designed to serve both comfort and community.

Guiding this evolution is Neena Jivraj Stevenson, Managing Director of The Sloane Club, whose vision has brought together hospitality interior design and service in a way that speaks to the modern member while preserving the Club’s distinctive character.

In this Q&A, Neena shares the story behind the transformation, the philosophy shaping the Club’s future and what members can look forward to next.

1. What inspired the new design of The Sloane Club and how does it honour the Club’s heritage?

The new design, created by the award winning Russell Sage Studio, is inspired by the Club’s rich origins. Founded in 1922 by Princess Helena, the Club began as a residential community for ex servicewomen, built on camaraderie, friendship and a pioneering spirit.

Over the years, the Club has evolved to welcome men and women from all backgrounds and has become a vibrant social hub in Chelsea. Russell Sage and his team immersed themselves in the Club’s history, uncovering stories from its founding ethos to its modern identity.

This history informs every detail of the luxury restaurant interior design. From Helena’s, a dining space named after our founder, to the Demob Bar, which pays tribute to the post‑war spirit, each venue tells a story rooted in the Club’s legacy.

Read Our Full Case Study on The Sloane Club’s Transformation

2. The Club’s brand promise is One Space for the Whole Self. What does this mean for members?

Our members want more than a place to eat or stay. They want a space where work, wellness and social connection coexist. One Space for the Whole Self reflects this, offering everything from holistic wellness facilities and multiple dining concepts to private event spaces, 66 bedrooms and curated events. The idea is to create an authentic community where every aspect of a member’s life is respected and nurtured.

3. How has the member experience been enhanced by the transformation?

Every space is designed with purpose. The Club now flows seamlessly from one area to the next, whether members are seeking quiet reflection, meeting and workspace facilities, vibrant events that enable social connection or somewhere to host and dine. This is supported by a team that understands and anticipates member needs, ensuring each experience feels personal and meaningful.

4. What was TGP International’s role in shaping this transformation?

Every part of the transformation needed to feel intentional, not only in design but in how the brand communicates across its spaces. TGP helped us take a step back and build a clear framework that defined how each outlet fits within the wider Club ecosystem.

Their input across brand architecture, naming strategy and design touchpoints - brought consistency while allowing each space to retain its own character. Their approach helped to align the operational aspects with the emotional connection we wanted our members to feel in each space.

5. What new spaces are available for members who want to work or hold meetings?

Members can currently use designated laptop-friendly zones. A fully dedicated workspace is opening soon, offering desks, soundproof phone booths and a calm atmosphere designed for productivity.

For private meetings, two rooms accommodate up to six people each, while The Wren and The Ranelagh cater for up to 14 guests for larger meetings, workshops or corporate events.

6. Can you describe the new dining and bar concepts?

Members can already enjoy Helena’s, an all-day dining restaurant with seasonal dishes and a terrace, and the Demob Bar, a late-night cocktail venue. Opening soon is Venus, serving elevated land and sea dishes with a seasonal menu, and Lila, a terrace restaurant and bar with southeast Asian cuisine and a retractable glass roof.

7. How is wellness integrated into the Club?

Our wellness facilities include a state-of-the-art gym, a studio for classes, an infrared sauna with a shock shower and ensuite changing rooms. Members can also enjoy Bamford massages, facials and beauty treatments. Group wellness events form part of the regular member programme.

8. How will the Club’s cultural programme evolve?

We have introduced a varied calendar of events, from talks and performances to creative workshops and exhibitions. These will continue to expand across art, literature, fashion, beauty, wellness, food and drink, music and sport, often in collaboration with leading brands.

9. What role does the Chelsea community play in the Club’s vision?

Chelsea is a close‑knit, multigenerational community with a strong village feel. We aim to reflect this sense of belonging within the Club, while building partnerships with local businesses and supporting neighbourhood initiatives.

10. What can members look forward to next?

Before the year ends, Venus and Lila will open, along with a dedicated workspace and the Ranelagh private room. A community café open to both members and non‑members will also launch, offering a glimpse into The Sloane Club experience.