The University Club in Downtown San Diego is set to undergo a $2 million renovation starting in mid-June and running through Labor Day. Despite the changes, the club will stay open, ensuring that members can continue to enjoy its amenities.
This renovation focuses on refreshing the aesthetics of the building’s top floor and removing an underused fine dining room. It comes a year after the Jacobs Music Center, which occupies the first floor of the Symphony Towers, completed its own substantial $125 million makeover. The University Club’s last major update was 15 years ago, so it’s time for a change. Although the stunning ocean views remain unchanged, the furniture and décor have become outdated.
General Manager Brian Lee, who has been with the club since 2020, believes the upgrade will inject new life into the membership experience. The design plans feature a blend of warm woods, soft grays, and dark accents, aimed at embracing a modern look that reflects the vibrant character of San Diego.
“The view sells itself. But when I look closer, I see opportunities,” Lee said. He recognizes how the pandemic has altered the landscape of membership clubs. Many people now seek spaces that enhance their work-from-home lifestyles, making it easier to balance work and socializing. To accommodate this shift, the new design will include more workstations and cozy seating areas.
Interestingly, the club’s fine dining space wasn’t attracting as many members as hoped. Lee plans to remove the wall separating that space from the lounge area, creating a more inviting atmosphere that fosters community connection. This change reflects a growing trend in dining where relaxed, social environments are favored over formal settings.
Today’s members are younger and more diverse, mirroring San Diego’s evolving demographics. The club has become a hub for connections, with both social and business opportunities. Membership is seen less as a privilege and more as a community space.
Experts point out that the pandemic has shifted social dynamics significantly. According to a recent survey by the Membership Marketing Institute, 67% of respondents reported that they seek a sense of community in clubs more than ever. This trend is reflected in the new direction of the University Club—balancing work needs with social interactions.
Lee’s vision for the club is a blend of networking and friendship. “Many join for business but often leave with friendships they didn’t expect to find. It’s about being in a comfortable environment, and that can lead to unexpected partnerships,” he shared.
With the renovations, the University Club aims to become a leading space for both work and leisure, setting a new standard for what membership clubs can offer in the post-pandemic world.
For more details about the University Club, check out their official page.
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