Articles

The new Members’ Room at Tate Britain, a product of the recent £45 million refurbishment, has a wow factor to rival that of its Modern younger sibling, celebrating instead the Neoclassical character and charm of the original building. Architects Caruso St John have exposed the Upper Rotunda balcony and Dome closed off since the 1920s, made accessible by a whimsical spiral staircase, inspired perhaps by ‘Alice in Wonderland’. The circular space is totally unique, very roomy and faintly wacky. The 14-metre long bar serves sandwiches, snacks, hot and cold drinks and alcohol. A good place to relax after taking in an exhibition although it should be noted that service was a bit disorganized, and access to the area was not restricted to members only.