By Sophie Yardley for Squarely Magazine

This quarter, we’re taking you to Singapore, specifically to 1880. Founded in 2017 by Marc Nicholson, 1880 is a members’ club in Singapore whose mission is to inspire conversations that change the world, positively impacting society. So what lays at the top of the magnificent kaleidoscope entrance hall? It’s as incredible as it sounds: a space that is inclusive and vibrant, promising an array of events that broaden perspectives and catalyse new connections. Additionally, 1880 offers a delicious menu that reflects Singapore’s unique cultural fusion.

From the minute that you step into 1880 territory, the design of the space is delightfully surprising; a beautiful assortment of textures, colours and fabrics come together to excite in the most playful way. In the words of 1880 – the space puts a smile on your face, makes you feel irreverent, and bonds people together much like a shared piece of gossip. It’s comfortable, inviting, and intimate, but also utterly unique and appealing to the senses. The 1880 approach to hospitality is professional and personable, they’re committed to developing concepts that meet the social, personal, and professional aspirations of their very special community of members.

So, who makes up the 1880 community? In their own words; 1880 is not about homogeneity. The club’s members are an eclectic mix of individuals with one common characteristic – the desire to think, do, and live differently. The events that the club organise are designed to bring people together; ranging from their secret suppers with conversation cards to take conversations deeper, to other more specific interest groups such as their women’s forum, book club, and cycling group.

The club is reputed for their curated events programme, which reflects the multi-faceted interests and nature of their members. Their offering encompasses tickets to extraordinary events, including private dinners, exclusive gallery visits, parties and film premieres. Previous speakers and guests include Pulitzer Prize winner Tom Friedman, Nobel Prize winner Kailash Satyarthi, fourth-generation Rockefeller and philanthropist Peggy Dulany, and artist Philip Colbert, to name a few.

If it’s your first visit to Singapore, you’ll be wanting the insider scoop on the best places to eat. So we quizzed the 1880 team for their recommendations. First up on their list is a visit to Keong Saik Road where you’ll be spoilt for choice. Next up is of course COL – by 1880 Executive Chef Colin. It’s a casually elegant neighbourhood restaurant and bar with reimagined classics, favourites from the wood fire grill, and not to forget, the best spicy margaritas in town. The No Sleep Club is down as one of the best bars in town, also serving great food. The final recommendation; Tong Ah Eating House – for a local breakfast (kaya toast and local ‘kopi’), and other hearty dishes to share for lunch or dinner.

So what else is on the agenda when visiting Singapore? Singapore’s art scene is constantly evolving and becoming increasingly multi-disciplinary. You can hear talented local musicians and singers perform at clubs like 1880, enjoy plays and musicals produced by local theatre companies such as the Singapore Repertory Theatre and Pangdemonium, and find a wide range of Singapore literature at bookstores such as the Epigram Coffee Bookshop.

The future for 1880 is looking bright, in 2024, they will be opening up new clubs in both Bali and Hong Kong, with the ambition to connect major cities in Asia through an 1880 network. In Bali, you can expect a business retreat hotel and members’ club in Canggu, with stunning views overlooking Berawa Beach. In Hong Kong, they’re busy redefining what it feels like to go to work with 1880 SOCIAL – the new paradigm of work- life entertainment.

And on that note, we’re busy organising our grand tour to Asia – we’ll see you there!

Head here to see our other reciprocal clubs…
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