Project Brochure
Client

The Royal Automobile Club

Sector

Private Members Club

Website

www.royalautomobileclub.co.uk

Location

89-91 Pall Mall, London W1

The Royal Automobile Club

The Royal Automobile Club (RAC) is a private members club located at 89-91 Pall Mall and is a Grade II listed building in London W1.
Stamfords were commissioned to undertake a full survey and diagnosis of a historic substructure fault causing water ingress into the fabric of the building, initiating failing decorations and structural damage.
After our full investigation and core testing procedures were completed, we treated the external façade of the building with a liquid waterproofing sealant which resolved the ingress and offered a long-term solution.
The internal defects were then made good and all decorations and flooring brought back to their original, high-end finishes.The internal defects were then made good and all decorations and flooring brought back to their original, high-end finishes.
The Royal Automobile Club project highlights Stamford Contracts‘ ability to manage and execute complex construction projects in sensitive and high-profile environments. By overcoming the challenges of working at a live club site, maximizing limited space, and ensuring minimal disturbance, Stamford Contracts successfully delivered a project that not only met but exceeded the expectations of the Royal Automobile Club in London.
MAINTAINING ACCESS AND SAFETY
Challenge: The project required careful management of fire escape routes and access, ensuring the safety and convenience of club members.

Solution: We maintained, altered, and adapted fire escape routes as necessary, with the approval of the landlord and the local fire officer. Temporary works were implemented to ensure clear and safe access at all times.
WORKING AT A LIVE PRIVATE CLUB SITE
Challenge: The RAC is a live, high-profile club that demanded uninterrupted operations throughout the refurbishment. Ensuring construction activities did not disrupt the daily activities was paramount.
Solution: We implemented a strict construction schedule, working only during specific times to avoid peak club activities. Temporary barriers and soundproofing measures were utilized to minimize noise and dust. Continuous communication with club management was maintained to coordinate our activities with their schedule. We had to be invisible on the site, ensuring that our presence did not disturb the club’s members and activities.
ENSURING MINIMAL VISIBILITY AND DISTURBANCE
Challenge: The prestigious nature of the RAC required that construction activities be as unobtrusive as possible, particularly in visible areas such as the RAC Terrace and the Gentlemen’s Smoking Room.
Solution: We utilized discrete access points, including the Gentlemen’s Smoking Room on the ground floor, ensuring construction workers and activities were not visible to club members. Strict protocols were followed to maintain a low profile, including specific routes and times for material deliveries and worker movements. We had to be invisible on the site to ensure the club’s ambiance remained undisturbed.
DETAILED WORK DUE TO PRIVATE CLUB SPECIFICATIONS
Challenge: The RAC’s high standards necessitated detailed work and careful attention to aesthetics and functionality.
Solution: Close collaboration with architects, designers, and engineers ensured that all modifications met the club’s stringent requirements. High-quality materials and finishes were used to match the club’s prestigious standards. Every design alternative was meticulously developed and reviewed, ensuring seamless integration with the club’s existing grandeur.