Lifestyle clubs have evolved significantly over the years, transitioning from traditional exclusive social venues to modern hubs that cater to diverse interests and holistic well-being. These clubs offer members a blend of social interaction, wellness activities, professional networking, and recreational facilities, creating environments where individuals can enrich their personal and professional lives.
The Evolution of Lifestyle Clubs
Historically, private members’ clubs emerged in 18th-century Britain as exclusive spaces for the aristocracy to socialize away from the public eye. These establishments, such as White’s and Brooke’s in London, were characterized by strict membership criteria and served as sanctuaries for the elite. The concept spread globally, with colonial influences introducing similar institutions in countries like India, leading to the establishment of clubs such as the Bengal Club in Kolkata and the Bombay Club in Mumbai.
In contemporary times, the essence of these traditional clubs has been reimagined to align with modern lifestyles. Today’s lifestyle clubs focus on inclusivity, diverse amenities, and holistic experiences that cater to a broader demographic. They have become centers for wellness, networking, leisure, and cultural engagement, reflecting the evolving preferences of society.
Wellness-Centric Socialization
A notable trend in the evolution of lifestyle clubs is the emphasis on wellness as a core component of social interaction. Modern establishments recognize the growing desire for health-oriented lifestyles and have integrated wellness services into their offerings. For instance, clubs like Remedy Place in New York City position themselves as social wellness clubs, providing services such as vitamin IVs, cryotherapy, and hyperbaric chambers. These amenities are designed to offer members alternative forms of entertainment centered around self-care and health.
This shift towards wellness is particularly appealing to younger generations, including Gen Z and millennials, who prioritize health and holistic well-being. These demographics view wellness clubs as modern-day country clubs, offering spaces for social engagement, fitness activities, relaxation, and personal development. Establishments like Hume, Heimat, Love.Life, Continuum, and Remedy Place exemplify this trend by providing a variety of services ranging from yoga and Pilates to massages and nail treatments.
Integration of Work and Leisure
The boundaries between work and leisure have become increasingly blurred, leading lifestyle clubs to adapt by incorporating facilities that accommodate flexible working arrangements. For example, David Lloyd Leisure has introduced dedicated workspaces within its upscale clubs to meet the rising demand for flexible working environments. Members can utilize these spaces for professional purposes while seamlessly integrating health and wellness activities such as swimming and padel into their routines.
This integration reflects a broader societal shift towards work-life balance, where individuals seek environments that support both productivity and well-being. By offering such multifaceted spaces, lifestyle clubs cater to professionals who desire a seamless blend of work, health, and leisure.
Exclusive Racquet Sports Clubs
Racquet sports have experienced a resurgence in popularity, leading to the emergence of exclusive clubs that offer luxurious amenities alongside well-maintained courts. In regions like the Hamptons, new racquet clubs provide facilities for tennis, padel, and pickleball, complemented by spas, personal trainers, Michelin-starred dining, and exclusive social events.
These clubs modernize the traditional country club experience by offering not only sports facilities but also a comprehensive lifestyle package. They cater to individuals seeking both athletic engagement and upscale leisure, creating environments where members can pursue their passions while enjoying high-end services.
The Indian Landscape of Lifestyle Clubs
India has witnessed a burgeoning scene of private members-only clubs that blend traditional exclusivity with contemporary amenities. These establishments cater to the evolving preferences of affluent individuals seeking spaces that offer luxury, networking, and holistic experiences.
Notable examples include:
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BLVD Club, Bengaluru: Established in December 2017, BLVD Club offers a 100,000 sq. ft. space providing members with luxury and comfort. The club ensures every member has access to personal concierge services, assisting with planning meetings or arranging poolside dinners. Facilities include richly furnished rooms, wellness treatments at ILLUME spa, beauty rituals at VIRSELLA, fitness sessions at TONE, dining experiences at CORE, and recreational activities such as tennis and swimming.
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The Chambers, Taj New Delhi: This exclusive business club has undergone a transformation, now spread over two floors with a members-only restaurant serving European cuisine, a stylish bar, a cigar lounge, and a Stefano Ricci-designed meeting room. The Chambers emphasizes luxury with elements like Bernardaud dinnerware and Riedel glassware, catering to members seeking a sophisticated environment.
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Jolie’s, Mumbai: Spanning 20,000 square feet in Worli, Jolie’s is a luxury club crafted for the indulgent and uninhibited. Featuring nine transformative zones, it offers an eclectic sanctuary for members to escape the everyday and engage in revelry and leisure.
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The Quorum, Gurugram and Mumbai: The Quorum is an urban lifestyle club designed with a global sensibility, offering spaces for art, food, music, theater, and cultural events. With properties in Gurugram and Mumbai, and plans for Hyderabad, The Quorum provides fitness centers, libraries, members’ lounges, restaurants, and cafes, catering to a diverse range of interests.
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Soho House, Mumbai: Located on Juhu Beach, Soho House Mumbai features local artwork and furniture, block-printed fabrics from Rajasthan, and interiors reflecting the city’s culture. Members can enjoy the club space with views of the Arabian Sea, a rooftop bar and pool, a private screening room, and event spaces, offering a blend of relaxation and cultural engagement.
Conclusion
Lifestyle clubs have transformed significantly over the years, evolving from traditional private members’ clubs to modern hubs that cater to wellness, networking, recreation, and luxury. The increasing focus on holistic well-being, flexible workspaces, and exclusive sports facilities reflects changing societal preferences, particularly among younger generations.
As these clubs continue to adapt to contemporary lifestyles, they serve as more than just elite gathering spaces—they become essential environments where individuals can seamlessly integrate health, work, and social life. Whether in New York, London, or Mumbai, lifestyle clubs are shaping the way people connect, unwind, and elevate their experiences. Their rise signals a shift towards a more mindful and balanced approach to leisure, making them an integral part of modern urban life.
