New York City's social clubs have evolved from elite 19th-century sanctuaries to modern spaces like Soho House that emphasize creativity, connectivity, and diversity. Traditional clubs persist, but new establishments prioritize unique values appealing to the elite. The concept of exclusivity has shifted from high membership fees to referral-only policies in residential clubs. This creates a forward-thinking model for socializing, focusing on less tangible luxuries such as the ability to unplug and engage in intimate gatherings with influential figures within the luxury real estate sector.
The definition of what constitutes an elite social club is also branching out farther than ever from its aristocratic roots. Clubs synonymous with the spaces that host their gatherings - from the historic Metropolitan Club, founded by J.P. Morgan, to the ultra-exclusive Jazz Club at Aman - are being mirrored in intellectual and community-driven programming in luxury residences.
It's based around a less tangible set of luxuries, and more around values that appeal to the 1 percent in unique ways. Consider the luxury of unplugging - turning off your phone and being unreachable in the middle of the day, rubbing elbows with your ultra-high-achiever friends at a deliciously catered soiree - all without leaving your house.
Exclusivity among the Manhattan clubs was historically defined by high membership fees. Among the emerging residential clubs, the greatest barrier to entry might be their referral-only policy. In other words, it's all about who you know.
The fee-based membership model in a residential club is not the norm, though in the luxury rental space, which is booming right now, we are starting to see hybrids emerge.
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