X+Why

Historic landmark to provide an elegant club space

Commercial hospitality operator, x+why, has confirmed the launch of The Arding Rooms, an exclusive private members club within the iconic Arding & Hobbs building, the historical landmark at Clapham Junction restored by property specialists W.RE. 

Opening in spring/summer this year as the first private members club in Clapham, The Arding Rooms will set a new standard in social and networking spaces in South London.

The Arding Rooms will provide an inviting space to meet, dine and entertain in this exceptional building. Combining timeless elegance with a modern twist, The Arding Rooms will feel like your stylish best friend’s house, offering a sanctuary to unwind, indulge and connect. Located only eight minutes by train from both Victoria and Waterloo Stations, The Arding Rooms will benefit from excellent transport links, a Third Space gym downstairs and the vibrant local environment of Clapham Junction and Northcote Road. 

The interiors of The Arding Rooms will deliver a blend of beautiful, modern aesthetics and ethical design, incorporating themes from the rich heritage of the former department store. This will include referencing the Arts and Crafts aesthetic, utilising salvaged materials and several notable pieces of antique furniture, and the design will notably embrace Arding & Hobbs’s central stained glass domed atrium.

The terrace, with cosy seating nooks, extensive planting and panoramic views across south west London, will be an exquisite stand-out feature of the space. With x+why, a certified B Corp, the venue will not only be aesthetically pleasing but also in keeping with the best-practice principles of ESG. 

Highlights of membership include:

  • Exclusive access to x+why’s exciting, vibrant private members club offering a retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life
  • Schedule of members’ events bringing together the best of the arts, culture, food and drink
  • Live entertainment with a calendar of live music, parties and talks
  • Special rates for private hire to host parties and events
  • Access to the exquisite roof terrace, unparalleled in the local area
  • A delicious and ethically sourced food and drinks menu that will feature many local providers, and a superb weekend brunch menu
  • Additional member benefits such as special rates at nearby hotels and Third Space gym, and preferential parking rates

There will be a range of memberships available, designed to deliver value whilst fostering a sense of community among members. The team has already received an unprecedented amount of interest for founding memberships. The beautifully designed events spaces with a capacity of up to 180 people will be open to bookings from the general public and local business community as well as members.

The Arding Rooms will be the latest addition to x+why’s exciting portfolio of Clubspaces, building on the company’s legacy in offering members an inspiring home-away-from-home to connect and flourish. Other Clubspaces transformed by x+why into thriving collaborative and networking hubs include The Orchard, at One Great Cumberland Place and The Portman Estate’s landmark office building in London’s West End; as well as eighteen, in 103 Colmore Row, Birmingham’s tallest office building.

Rupert Dean, CEO of x+why said: “We are really excited to announce the launch of The Arding Rooms, which is set to be a truly inspiring space where our members can have fun and connect with like-minded individuals, celebrate milestones, and feel part of a vibrant community. We can’t wait to welcome members to what we believe will be one of the most inspiring destinations in South London.”

Emma Clarke, recently appointed Head of Membership Sales at x+why, said: “I am thrilled to join the team and bring my experience from Soho House to this exciting new venture. The Arding Rooms promises to be a vibrant hub for the Clapham community, offering an exceptional space for members to connect, relax and enjoy, with a range of memberships to suit different needs. I look forward to welcoming our founding members and creating unforgettable experiences in this stunning and historic setting.”

A spokesperson at Third Space Clapham Junction said: “Third Space is delighted to welcome The Arding Rooms to the iconic Arding & Hobbs building, helping to create a destination that balances heritage with modern lifestyle offerings. As a hub for fitness, wellness and community, we are proud to see this landmark building evolving into a dynamic space that offers something truly special to the local area. The addition of this new members club will not only complement the offering from Third Space but also further enhances Clapham Junction as a vibrant location where people can meet, unwind, and be inspired.”

Anyone interested in applying for membership can register their interest here.

Find out more about x+why here.