Another project I’ve been working on is a Private Members club. I had looked into this type of place when I was in Japan and actually had some meetings in London with Nick Jones, the owner of Soho House, a members club in London and a members hotel in New York, to discuss setting one up in Tokyo.
I warn any of my tech friends that its not aiming at you .. its much more focused on the arts and media crowd. I am not talking about something like the stiff upper lip, jacket and tie type places they already have in Montreal; nor am I talking about something like 357c, Daniel Langlois’ place , that is stunning but rather formal, expensive and unappealing to a younger crowd (I confess that I haven’t been in I’ve just heard rumours). Perhaps, something more akin to Daniel’s, Gault Hotel, if I’m looking for a Montreal reference, but with a number of changes to improve the ambience of the establishment – more relaxed and more comfortable.
There is a concept site that has been developed to introduce interested parties to the concept. It’s password protected, so let me know if you are interested in knowing more and I’ll set you up with access.
by Fred
Neat. I’m definitely interested.
by Josh
I second the idea, and I’m also interested.
by Alex
I was introduced to SOHO House in NYC by my cousin and I found it to be a great place to hang out and meet people. I think that Montreal could really use a place like it (albeit with that little extra Montreal je ne sais quoi
by john
I would agree that the Montreal “je ne sais quoi” is very important. My view is that SOHO House NYC may be a little too “smooth” for Montreal. The SOHO House London (the original one) is definately more in keeping with the more relaxed Montreal vibe.
by Zeke
Howdy!
You might want to check out the The Spoke Club in Toronto as well.
And then if you are trolling for potential members, the Canadian Art Museums Directors Organization is having their AGM here in Montreal in May. Getting a flyer or something in their welcoming package might help in spreading the word.