IN THE CLUB
Next-gen luxury business clubs that emphasise inclusivity
Members-only clubs are nothing new, but from the ones that have been cropping up in recent years, they have evolved for a whole new class of consumers. Think cool and luxurious spaces designed by bold-faced names in the design world; think privileges that revolve more on talks, intellectual discourse and networking; think fabulous dining spaces and workspaces that actually help members work, be it by providing better technical support or resources to help expand their client or networking bases.
In Singapore, members-only clubs have always been the purview of the select few, whether clan associations of different Chinese communities in the early 20th century or expat-specific clubs that cater to a certain nationality. Then of course, there are the ubiquitous country clubs, which were more family-oriented affairs, complete with screaming kids and weekend socials by the pool.
While these clubs still exist, and dare I say, have their place in society, the new members-only clubs emphasise the idea of community, of like-minded people coming together to socialise or work.
Says Marc Nicholson, founder of 1880, which opened in Singapore in 2017, “Our goal when we opened 1880 was to build a platform for people with open, entrepreneurial minds to come together and spark new connections, ideas and ventures.” Since its opening, the club has established itself as a forum for members seeking “meaningful conversations”, whether these are for business or as a means to drive change. And it looks as if
1880 is set to continue its growth. Last year, it was announced that it received a S$3 million investment from one of the city’s leading real estate developers, RB Capital. The infusion will fund the club’s international growth.
Says Kishin RK, CEO of RB Capital, which also spearheaded the development of Quayside in Robertson Quay, “The Quayside development has been designed around the community – creating a dynamic neighbourhood for Singapore’s residents and discerning international guests. 1880 was founded in Quayside Singapore out of a shared vision to inject a series of fresh and exciting concepts into the area that go way beyond a traditional ideal of hospitality. 1880 epitomises this evolution, providing a platform curated to attract a truly diverse community of members seeking anything but your typical members club.”
Joining the fray is The Work Project’s newest venture, The Mark, which is billed as a members-only business club designed for the C-suite community. Says Junny Lee, Founder of The Work Project, “The Mark was designed as a place for executives to relax either during the day or after office hours.”
Here’s a peek into these exclusive milieus:
1880
Named after the year that Robertson Quay was built, this Timothy Oulton-designed club is both a co-working and social space that spans 22,000 square feet. Judging by the vibe the last time we were there, it’s been successful at combining the work
and play aspect. For those looking for meaningful business conversations and connections, this is where it’s at. 1880 has a schedule of events for parties, exhibits, talks and even secret suppers for its members. Its salon nights are particularly popular as are film screenings. They even have yoga and pilates sessions for members who need to stretch those muscles.
Tower Club Singapore
A bit more old school than others on this list, though that’s not necessarily a bad thing. This club is where you’ll find the CEOs and big bosses. The Tower Club has spaces for private events and meetings as well as facilities for the bigwigs to unwind – there’s a bar with its own wine storage and two fine dining establishments.
The Mark
One of the newest entrants in the scene, “Mark was launched to provide corporates and C-suites with services more aligned to their needs,” says Lee. “From hot and fixed desk options, to bespoke configrations and with the privacy and security that corporates expect, The Work Project’s full suite of amenitised workspaces caters to all segments of today’s knowledge economy – for companies both small and large.” Tucked behind a hidden door in Capital Tower, the private lounge is designed as a calm and elegant space, where highpowered executives and C-suites can retreat to secure deals, hold intimate discussions and exclusive events. Mark is designed by award-winning studio, Hassell, and offers an elegant Champagne Room, where members can gather over bubby. A more informal library area, with walls clad in orange Thai silk, offers space for more casual conversations. Food and beverage is by Proof & Co., which provides a curated list of beverages and bites.
Canvas
A slightly different take of a members-only club, Canvas was launched this year as a liestyle brand that incorporates Canvas Belong (a membership programme), Canvas Place, a hotel and residential arm; and Blank Canvas, a platform for creative minds to gather and curate new ideas. Says Carl Gouw, founder, “Canvas seeks to inspire and nurture connections between people and cultures. Through the different components of Canvas, we are weaving together the story of creative ideas, cultural diversity and originality.” The brand’s flagship properties of resort and residences in Bali, Hua Hin and Bangkok are set to be launched end of 2019 and early 2020, while curated experiences talks by some of Asia’s movers and shakers take place on a regular basis in Hong Kong, Singapore, Shanghai, and Bangkok.