Words Eve Herbert
Albert’s Club, Kensington and Chelsea’s first private member’s club of its kind, has a new look. Designed by design extraordinaire, Jesse Burgess, from House 91, in nine short weeks. Eccentric art reflects Albert’s energetic atmosphere. Bold prints line the walls courtesy of Colefax & Fowler with nods to the Kensington royal quarters.The site of Albert’s has taken on a variety of forms in the past. Though no one has yet achieved décor that epitomises the old-world glamour that Albert’s provides its guests.
MIXING OLD AND NEW
The club’s location, known as Albertropolis, was the stomping ground of Prince Albert at the height of Victoria’s reign. The interiors echo the splendour of the Kensington Hotel and the V&A museum. Nods are made to more traditional styles. These include blue velvet and mahogany wood in the dining room and a Balmoral tartan lined staircase. Although Burgess has incorporated a contemporary touch too. LED lights are set into the club ceiling and unusual golden giraffe and antelope fabrics.
Alongside this, the curation of an impressive art collection compliments the interiors. Expect traditional pieces by Picasso and vibrant prints by the grandfather of club owner, Jake Parkinson-Smith. These jostle for position amongst street art by Mr Brainwash, Black Le Rat and HiJack.Character and charm are in abundance as Colefax & Fowler line the walls with their distinctive print. They are the perfect backdrop for the new social media craze #albertsbathroomselfie. The Whisky Bar and entrance walkway presented themselves to Burgess as a perfect opportunity to again tap into Colefax & Fowler’s offering. A seamless complement to the tartan print stairwell guiding guests to the Blue Room.
Albert’s opened their doors last year by four of the biggest names from London’s prestigious club scene. Jake Parkinson-Smith, Carlo Carello, Piers Adam and Fraser Carruthers are the host founders.