The English Speaking Union
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Location: London
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Sector: Global Charity / Members Club
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Project length: 4 weeks
Revitalising Rich Heritage
The English-Speaking Union (ESU) is a prestigious organisation with a rich heritage, established by Royal Charter with Her Majesty the Queen as Patron and His Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh as President. Dartmouth House, the ESU’s iconic headquarters, was originally constructed in 1750 and remodeled in 1870 in an Anglo-French style by Edward Bearing, founder of Bearings Bank. With such a significant history and unique architectural style, it was vital that any refurbishment work was done with the utmost care and respect for the building’s heritage.
Buildgen was honored to be entrusted with the extensive refurbishment of Dartmouth House's private members bar. The design and build team worked closely to ensure the refurbishment complemented the Anglo-French aesthetic of the building, preserving its classic charm while introducing modern functionality.
The works included the bespoke French polishing of the listed paneling and antique furniture to maintain the integrity of the original features. We also installed a new bar area, blending contemporary finishes with the traditional elegance of the space. Custom LED lighting was carefully integrated into the design, enhancing the beauty of the bar while highlighting the new chandelier fixtures, adding a touch of sophistication to the atmosphere.
The end result is a beautifully revitalised members bar that respects the historic character of Dartmouth House while providing a modern, comfortable space for ESU members to gather and enjoy. We’re proud to have been a part of preserving and enhancing this remarkable building for future generations.
