Situated at London’s cultural epicentre lies the iconic National Gallery. Bringing people and paintings together since the early 1800s, it’s one of the most impressive edifices in the world, boasting a mighty collection of works spanning the medieval period to the early 20^th century. A treasure trove for art lovers, and also one of London’s prized cultural institutions, it was only a matter of time before there was an equally impressive space for guests to linger a little longer. Allow us to introduce Supporters’ House, the gallery’s exclusive members-only venture. 

Situated in the Wilkins Building – which originally housed the curators’ offices and stock rooms – Supporters’ House faces Trafalgar Square, featuring its own private and rather subtle entrance. Inside, members and patrons are invited to relax, socialise, dine, and drink in a peaceful, art-led oasis amid the metropolis. A wonderfully open and surprisingly big hub, it’s been designed to offer Londoners and out-of-towners a unique home-away-from-home, offering sophisticated weekday lunch settings, a weekend destination for clinking cocktails, and everything in between. 

Designed by New York architect Annabelle Selldorf, with Purcell Architects and interiors by Studio Linse, the historic building has been transformed into a cultural hotspot that is classy and cool, exclusive but accessible and undeniably chic, while keeping true to its heritage and artistic flair. “I wanted to take inspiration from the uniqueness of the gallery itself,” says Paul Linse, founder of the Amsterdam-based Studio Linse. “So much of life and the world around us is reflected in its paintings. We have brought snapshots of that to the inside of Supporters’ House, and we hope visitors will feel like they are in the very heart of the gallery.”

The space is split into four, flowing rooms that are reminiscent of a beautiful home – this is not a stuffy old members’ club with a pokey cigar room. Featuring a lounge and bar, restaurant, private dining room and the salon, every space has been inspired by different seasons, celebrated via a plethora of silk wallpapers, glossy paints, and artwork on the walls – creativity, colours, fabrication, and finesse were all crucial to the design process.

The lounge, which pays homage to the blooming buds of British springtime, boasts high ceilings allowing daylight to flood in and a pastel-hued blossom design peppering the space while, over at the bar, an amber autumnal glow provides the perfect backdrop to sip on coffee or cocktails. Wander through to the winter-inspired restaurant, adorned in deep blue shades, to sample a delicious menu created by Giorgio Locatelli. Looking for a more intimate setting? The gorgeous private dining room does not disappoint, dressed in copper and inspired by JMW Turner’s penchant for painting sunsets. This is the perfect spot for special dinners, birthdays, and New Year’s Eve parties, or even a glamorous murder mystery. 

Finally, the salon takes us into the sunnier season, primed to host events among its summer-blush surroundings and high windows affording wonderful views of the capital (you can just spot the tip of Nelson’s Column peeking through and, further afield, the London Eye). Here, members can discover a bespoke programme of House Events, such as conversations with curators, talks by renowned authors, and creative masterclasses, ultimately encouraging learning while offering a sense of community. 

Open to House Members and patrons, Supporters’ House welcomes guests through its old doors into a new and exciting space, where wining, dining, and storytelling go hand-in-hand – and Leonardo, Rembrandt, and Van Gogh aren’t too far away. Clubs simply don’t get chicer than this. 

Membership starts from £130 per year. Discover Supporters’ House now at thenationalgallery.org.uk