Our story
A former art gallery, reopened as a club
Empire opened in March 2024 in a former art gallery on Bishop Lane in Old Town, right next door to Brathaus, RACK, Sip Coffee and Goldwater Brewing.
The idea was simple: a place to do good work during the day that becomes somewhere you actually want to be at night. So the building got hot desks, conference rooms, phone booths and a podcast studio, and also crystal chandeliers, Gatsby-style bars, an antique Brunswick pool table and three patios.
Two years on, Empire is home to members who work here every day, hosts Sunset Socials every Saturday, and has hosted everything from talks to art shows. We also believe in giving back: our events have supported animal rescues, veterans, children’s charities and civic groups across Arizona. The house rule hasn’t changed: kindness and respect, always.
Empire Scottsdale is operated by Desert Defenestration LLC.
Timeline
So far
Empire opens in a former art gallery on Bishop Lane, with a grand opening for Old Town.
The first year of members’ events: a brunch mixer, a Midsummer Night’s Dream party, a puppy fundraiser, a masquerade, a Casino Royale raffle and a Gatsby Christmas Bash.
The building is a gallery again for one night, with an art show and a jazz trio.
One year of Empire, celebrated with live music and a red carpet.
Dogs & Derby on the patio, an all-white Midsummer party and the Year of the Snake.
Sunset Socials begin: a weekly evening for local professionals, with local businesses as sponsors.
Empire turns two, with member talks in the Loft, a petting zoo and a full house.
The rooftop terrace and the Louvre bar open to members.
Events supporting eight nonprofits, from Pinal County and Tempe animal rescues to veterans’ causes, children’s charities and civic dialogue.
Book a tour
Tours take about 20 minutes. Come by on a weekday and we’ll show you the floor, the rooms and the patios.