London is known for its exclusive clubs — and there are plenty to choose from. But Mortimer House claims to offer something that the rest lack, so we had to investigate.
Modern, yet permeated with a decadent old school je ne sais quoi. Creativity abounds throughout the wide-open space, where traditional business meets millennial innovation.
That’s how I would describe the feel of Mortimer House’s fifth floor, where I’m currently seated nursing an oat latte, gazing out at the view of London’s grand Fitzrovia.
I’m only here to visit for the day, but I can already picture myself creating a happy little home right in this spot. The bar is positioned just behind me, where the friendly mixologist has already offered me an array of beverages, from tea infusions to a fruity gin concoction.
“This early?”, I ask, thinking he’s joking. He simply raises his eyebrows and smiles, suggesting that it’s not an uncommon request.
Having arrived at the seven-storey art deco building at 8.30am sharp, I imagined myself being one of the first budding creatives to get set up for the day. Instead, I’m met with a half-filled workspace, laptops and notepads laid out, coffee mugs already empty.
“What time do you open?” I ask the manager while being shown round. “We’re always open,” she replies simply. “Members can come in and out as they please.”
And that promptly summarises the nonchalant atmosphere of Mortimer House, one of London’s most exclusive private members’ clubs.
A term that was once uttered with an enigmatic and elusive air, private members’ clubs are now one of the capital’s key commodities — and they’re popping up across the city like wildfire.
But rather than promising late-night exclusive events and networking opportunities for the rich and famous, Mortimer House, created by hospitality group Maslow’s, is routed in something else entirely — wellbeing. And, as wellness is our name and game here at L360, we had to see it for ourselves.
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What’s it like inside a private members’ club?
Designed for the modern remote or nomadic worker, Mortimer House is first and foremost a destination for members to work, talk, conceptualise ideas and come together as a team.
Each floor has been designed to suit different styles of working, from formal boardrooms to more casual lounges and small, independent workspaces. There’s even a meeting room that’s been created to resemble a cosy and bright kitchen, complete with an actual oven and preparing station, so that teams can bring in and cook their own food.
The fifth floor — where I’m currently sat — feels more like an open space for teams or independent workers to get creative. The floor is complete with long tables, comfy sofas and sophisticated bronze armchairs with a scattering of books beside them for those seeking a more proper background.
It’s here, I can imagine, where networking among creatives takes place, and it’s an ideal location for it. From real estate moguls and graphic designers to savvy marketers and ambiguous entrepreneurs (I’m still trying to identify the industry to which some individuals belong), I’m already eavesdropping on the exciting chatter between members, and it creates an energy that inspires.
If you’re unconfined to an office, or your team is completely remote, setting up a company membership here makes a lot of sense. As well as its abundance of artfully designed workspaces, you’ll be in the heart of Fitzrovia, with Oxford Street and Tottenham Court Road on your doorstep.
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What wellbeing experiences does Mortimer House offer?
“Both physical and mental health are at the heart of Mortimer House,” the manager tells me.
We’ve journeyed a few floors down to the spacious gym, complete with an extensive amount of equipment, as well as a separate Pilates studio. “All classes are included in the membership except for Reformer, and we cover everything from boxing and barre to HITT and circuit training.”
Personal training sessions can be arranged — at an additional cost — and you’ll often find after-work health events in the studio.
It’s here that wellness talks and sessions are usually put on, and I’ve booked myself in for the breathwork event taking place for a whole two hours (6.30-8.30pm). According to the schedule, there’s also a regular roster of discussions with guest nutritionists, workshops, mental health panels and manifestation masterclasses throughout the year.
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It’s this emphasis on wellness, in my opinion, which makes Mortimer House stand out from London’s overflowing number of private members’ clubs.
Work is at the forefront, but there’s a constant reminder throughout the space to spare some time for yourself, whether that be during the working day or after. I’ve seen various members take time out to head to the gym, or break for an indulgent lunch at Mortimer House Kitchen, which is the next spot on my list.
What food and drink is there at a private member’s club?
As well as offering a variety of free snacks, breakfast bites and sweet treats, Mortimer House also has its own restaurant — Mortimer House Kitchen. Available to both members and non-members, the space is bright, and the menu is indulgent.
I thought I’d be coming down for a light bite, but it seems that executive chef Tom Cenci doesn’t believe in the concept. Rich Italian recipes make up the menu, and I opt for the chicken parmigiana with a side of broccoli. Its flavours and size don’t disappoint, and it’s clear that ensuring that members are well fed is a top priority for the house.
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I realise afterwards that lighter options can be found at the Living Room & Den, where the menu offers sandwiches, soups and salads. You can also head up to the rooftop terrace after a hard day of working, to enjoy its decadent drink menu.
As I gaze out over London, the manager informs me that they’re hosting an exclusive brand event on the terrace later tonight, set to be filled with the city’s most well-known influencers. She invites me to stop by, but the intrigue of breathwork is calling my name.
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Is a private members’ club worth the money?
As I return to my workspace, surrounded by other budding creatives having meetings on plush sofas and revisiting their laptops after a workout session, I conclude that a membership here is worth it for London’s young and restless.
It certainly provides the exclusive air that private members’ clubs are notorious for, but its emphasis on creativity and wellness removes any level of snobbery. It’s just a great place to work — both on you and your career.
