Project Feature: The Collectors Club
Interior Designer: Method Architects
Location: New York, NY
Project Type: Hospitality
Spaces: Lounge and Conference Room
Products: Ski Lounge Chairs in Picnic Plaid - Meadow from HBF Textiles, Max Sofas in COM, Costa Rectangular Table
Photography: Tom Sibley Photographs
Completion: 2025
A revered New York City institution has recently undergone a remarkable transformation. Since 1896, The Collectors Club (TCC) has been a cornerstone of the philatelic community, and with the unveiling of its new headquarters, it now marks a bold step into the future while honoring its rich past.
For over 80 years, TCC called a five-story brownstone in Manhattan's Murray Hill neighborhood home. However, as the club sought a more efficient and modern space, it embarked on an ambitious relocation, entrusting Method Architects with the delicate task of balancing preservation with forward-looking design. The goal was clear: create a home that would honor the club’s heritage and appeal to longtime members while embracing a modern identity fit for its vibrant New York setting.
Now located on 40th Street with sweeping views of Bryant Park, the new clubhouse blends classic New York charm with modern design sensibilities. The clean, minimal architectural details, warm wood panels, and slatted ceilings create a cozy atmosphere, while metal and stone fixtures bring a contemporary edge. The use of natural finishes and sleek HBF furnishings infuses the space with a fresh energy, inspiring a sense of vibrancy for members and events alike.
Reflecting on the positive reception, Lawrence Haber, TCC President, shared, "Our members have universally been impressed by what they’ve seen. The space reflects an organization that no longer lives in the past but resonates with our location in the midst of a modern city. Even those who were initially resistant to leaving our landmarked facility are now fully supportive and enthusiastic about what we have done here."
The lounge, which serves as the heart of the space, is in daily use as a gathering spot for socializing, reading, and research. The open area, framed by floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Bryant Park, has quickly become a favorite among members. It’s a lively spot to enjoy coffee, connect with other members, and attend club events. The Max Sofa, clad in buttery green leather, anchors the room with timeless elegance, while the Ski Lounge Chairs, upholstered in HBF Textiles’ Picnic Plaid with orange accents, adds a playful yet sophisticated touch to the atmosphere.
HBF’s seating solutions play a key role in balancing comfort with style, especially considering that many TCC members are over the age of 60. Ergonomic considerations were paramount, with seating heights tailored to enhance accessibility and ease of use without sacrificing elegance.
Casey Baxter, Vice President, General Manager of HBF and HBF Textiles, expressed her pride in the project: "The Collectors Club project perfectly encapsulates what we strive for at HBF. It’s about creating furniture that not only looks beautiful but also serves a purpose, is supportive, and enhances the user experience. We’re honored to have played a part in reimagining this historic institution for the modern era, providing pieces that bridge the gap between tradition and progress, just as The Collectors Club itself does in the world of philately."
As TCC steps into this new chapter, its revitalized clubhouse serves as a bridge between its storied past and promising future. It’s a space where history is preserved, studied, and celebrated, all while embracing the comfort and aesthetics of the modern world. For philatelists and design enthusiasts alike, The Collectors Club's new home is truly a stamp of approval on the artful blend of tradition and innovation.
