Marc Nicholson, founder of private members’ club 1880, on cultivating a community

Nicholson’s commitment to meaningful engagement is deeply personal and after the passing of his father in 2018, he set out more fervently to continue discussions inspired by his parents’ legacy of open dialogue. “We started doing talks that were definitely a derivative of what my father created,” he says. The Covid‑19 pandemic further transformed this approach; Nicholson reveals that his mother, who lives in Montreal, took the Wednesday Night sessions online and connected with a more global audience. He shares that he joined in too—though they happened every Thursday morning for him, due to the time difference. “I consider it a privilege to be able to get [in],” he says, highlighting the importance of maintaining connections even during challenging times.

At the time of this interview, 1880 was on the cusp of two exciting expansions, with new properties set to open in Hong Kong and Bali. The aim is to take the club’s success beyond our shores, while adapting to the unique cultural landscapes of each location. “This is a really, really big year for us … [we’re] incredibly excited about Hong Kong,” Nicholson admits. “We remain committed to the idea of connecting the cities of Southeast Asia and beyond.”

While not yet set in stone, Nicholson shares that the brand has also been actively exploring spaces in other cities such as Dubai, Melbourne and Bangkok for future growth. “What really determines where we go next is the property and the relationship we have with the developer,” he says. “If we can connect ourselves and our members through clubs in the cities I mentioned, that’s a very valuable and powerful thing.” At its core, 1880 exists to inspire conversations with the capacity to change the world by providing an environment conducive for the sharing of experiences and the cross‑pollination of ideas.

Embodying the spirit of collaboration and creativity that has defined 1880 in Singapore, the Hong Kong offshoot will feature a range of spaces designed for both work and leisure, fostering an environment for connection, collaboration and engagement in meaningful discussions. To be spread across four floors in Quarry Bay’s Two Taikoo Place are amenities that include five restaurants, five bars, spa and gym facilities, a library, working lounges and what Nicholson calls “co‑creation” facilities—and that is just the “hardware”, as he puts it. These will be complemented by a wide range of wellness programmes as well as social and intellectual events that invite stimulating discourse and discussions, along with a high level of tenant engagement.

Nicholson envisions a vibrant community for the Hong Kong property, where not just members, but also the public can gather and continue the legacy of open dialogue that 1880 is known for. The space, you see, will house a members’ club as well as a new concept, 1880 Social. Set to take up the first three floors, the latter will comprise a host of F&B offerings as well as office and events spaces that will all be open to the public, with no application process or approval required. “You download the app and off you go,” Nicholson says. Likening it to a “community centre or college campus”, he adds that 1880 Social offers “basically everything else you’d experience at a university that makes it an amazing experience”.

In other words, the draw of community and participation in social activities that pique one’s interest, from intramural sports to social celebrations, academic courses and charity events. Retaining a level of exclusivity is the fourth floor, dedicated to the 1880 Hong Kong members’ club. Here, one can tuck into fine fare at 1880’s signature restaurant Leonie’s, relax and indulge at the Lost/Found Spa, sweat it out in the Quarry Gym, and partake in curated programmes the likes of trivia nights, secret suppers and wide‑ranging talks. “The end result we’re hoping for,” Nicholson shares, “is connecting a massive group of people, brought loosely together by this new space. It’s very unlike what we do in Singapore or what we’re doing in Bali, but for me, it’s a phenomenal business.”

The Bali property, meanwhile, was introduced to Nicholson by a club member and initially conceived as a hotel, but was reimagined by him and his team into what they call a “work retreat resort” after a site visit. Nestled between Seminyak and Canggu, 1880 Brawa will have the usual amenities one would expect at a hotel or a resort: suites catered to every traveller, be it solo, couple or group; a restaurant (1880’s Leonie’s, with a Mediterranean twist); and high‑energy bars (including Arthur’s Bar).

But there will also be multiple private offices as well as a range of meeting spaces for rent, all of which can be personalised to each client’s needs. Like the Hong Kong property, an element of exclusivity is maintained, with a members’ club and cocktail pool affording stunning beachside views. Blending work and leisure in a luxurious setting, this innovative approach is particularly ideal for groups seeking a creative environment for brainstorming and collaboration. “Let’s say you have a regional team that’s spread across Taiwan or Bangkok, and you need to bring that team together, 1880 Brawa is a wonderful solution for that,” Nicholson proposes. And since there are only 12 hotel rooms, “if you want to take your management team … you stay at the hotel and it’s completely tapped out,” he adds. “You basically have the whole space to yourself.” Across both new locations, 1880’s programming remains as diverse as at its Singapore flagship, ranging from wellness activities to lively social events, reflecting the multifaceted interests of its community.

Nicholson notes that 1880 is not just about high‑profile events; rather, it serves as a platform for members to explore their passions and engage with one another. “We are many different personalities throughout the day,” he explains. “I don’t think that we manufacture culture or community. [These are] by‑products of what we do.” This perspective underscores the importance of creating spaces where relationships can thrive naturally, allowing members to connect on a deeper level.

As 1880 gears up for its new launches, Nicholson remains committed to the core values that have defined it, and is of the opinion that social clubs and community spaces are more important now than ever, in a time where people are increasingly isolated. “I believe very strongly in the product and value systems we have, connecting people and inspiring conversations,” he says. “I get a tremendous buzz out of it, and I get to do it every day! That’s what drives me.” In a world that often feels divided, 1880 is a hopeful refuge for those seeking connection, inspiration and thoughtful dialogue in undeniably luxurious settings. With the promise of new experiences and meaningful interactions on the horizon, 1880 is set to continue its legacy as a leader in fostering community and culture, inviting us all to embark on a journey of exploration, understanding and growth.

NOW READ

Marc Nicholson to open the Hong Kong chapter of his Singapore-based social club 1880

How To Start A Conversation At Members Club 1880

The most exclusive private clubs in Singapore