‘New York-inspired’ basement bar coming to historic Belfast building

The Clarence Chambers Building, a Grade A listed property in Donegall Square East, has been bought for £3m by the Clover Group.

The building was previously owned by MJM Pearl, part of Newry-based MJM Group.

Clover Group intends to spend an additional £2.5m renovating the site, and opening a “New York inspired basement late bar club known as Rudi,” the company said.

The group say Rudi will “offer a late bar vibe with reserved booths and table service, ensuring the energy and tempo of the room is experiential for all customers”.

The basement of the building currently houses cocktail bar Margot, which will move to the ground floor as part of the changes.

And 60 new jobs will be created when the redevelopment is complete, and will mean the building will house three cocktail bars.

McConnell Property were involved in the deal, and work on the property is being carried out by Dickson Fitzgerald Architects and O’Donnell O’Neill Design.

Mark Beirne, director of Clover Group, said: “Our exciting new space and venues at Donegall Square East will add a dynamic new dimension in the heart of Belfast creating memorable, exciting and diverse opportunities for both day and late night trade.

“Our city has a rich history and reputation for great bars and at Clover we are always looking for exciting new experiences for our customers and with Margot and Rudi we are creating a vibrant new venue which will have a strong Belfast footing but with a fresh New York influence.”

Graham O’Donnell from O’Donnell O’Neill Design said: “Restoring and emphasising the unique Georgian Architectural details of the period interior is a key focus within our approach which will see a revitalised, sophisticated and fun Margot, with carefully curated antiques, reclaimed building materials and period light fittings juxtaposed with mid-century design classic furniture pieces.

“Designed to work closely with Margot above it, Rudi will have a cool glamour with bookable tables and areas radiating from the vibrant bar.”

Paddy Brennan, managing director from McConnell Property, added: “I am delighted to be involved in this deal. The conversion and refurbishment of this landmark building will have a dramatic impact on the east side of Donegall Square.

“The Clover Group brings life and fun to all their venues, and this is another really exciting project for Belfast city centre."

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