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P R I V A T E C L U B S S P E C I A L F E A T U R E Ace of Clubs Today's private clubs offer a diverse menu of amenities, services and programs that satisfy the appetites of their members, regardless of age and interests E ighteenth-century London introduced the world to private clubs, and their historical reputation—aristocratic, exclusive and strictly for gentlemen— inuences our perceptions to this day. But today's clubs are dramatically di•erent from their long-ago counterparts, evolving with the times and, subsequently, their members' lifestyles and needs. And while some continue to view these members-only establishments as outdated or impenetrable, the private club is quietly re-emerging as a relevant, familial space where people from all walks of life can convene, connect or escape. Prestigious and re ned, yet targeted to families, Hollyburn Country Club is sprawled across 42 acres in West Vancouver's picturesque British Properties. The club, which recently underwent a $15-million expansion, is a dream for the athletically oriented, with 25 tennis courts, seven squash courts, swimming pools and a 12,000-square-foot tness facility. And its massive membership—7,500 total—is proof positive of the club's relevance and presence within the community. "Hollyburn's primary goal is to create memorable experiences that members can't nd elsewhere," says Kathryn Hegger, director of sales and marketing. "And we achieve that in many ways. For example, all of our athletic activities are led by high-calibre instructors who are respected in their eld of sport. We also ensure our 350,000-square-foot clubhouse is consistently upgraded to suit our members' needs." The latter are regularly asked for feedback so sta• can ensure they deliver on the high-level service and professionalism expected from a private club. Programming is curated to all age levels, from toddlers to grandparents, and sta• adjust programs and services regularly to suit member requests. And with such a wealth of experiences to choose from— gure skating, karate, music and everything in between—it's no wonder members are spending more and more of their downtime at Hollyburn. "'I'll meet you at the club' is a phrase commonly heard in West Vancouver," says Hegger. "It's rare to nd a community within a community that supports activities for everyone in the family." Indeed, as time has become more of a commodity and people's schedules have grown tighter, Hollyburn Country Club has grown into a go-to venue for meetings, health-related activities and downtime with loved ones. Perhaps no establishment in Vancouver better embodies the traditional private club than Terminal City Club. TCC, as it's fondly referred to among sta• and members, claims prime real estate at West Hastings and Howe streets, in the centre of the nancial district where the majority of its members work and live. The stylish club is one of Canada's most coveted, achieving an e•ortless balance between old-world elegance and multifunctional modernity— but it's far from old-fashioned. "The majority of our members are established professionals under the age of 35, many of whom are women," says Peter Jackman, general manager. " TCC caters to families, high-powered executives and young entrepreneurs. We certainly aren't an old boys' network." Indeed, the club's eclectic membership is a testament not only to the public's renewed interest in private clubs, but also to its appeal to a wider demographic. Whatever your view on members-only establishments, there's a certain cachet attached—it's cool to belong to a club. And contrary to many clubs that have su•ered declining memberships, TCC's continues to increase year after year, largely because it isn't like traditional clubs. "The days of exclusivity and starched button- downs are long gone," explains Jackman. "That's not going to y in this city, but it's a mistake many clubs continue to make. If you don't evolve, you lose relevance." Though Terminal City Club is part of a mixed-use high-rise—in fact, it rents out space to the businesses attached—stepping inside feels like entering an executive's Terminal City Club's cozy downstairs lounge offers billiards and snooker PHOTO CREDIT © RICk COLLInS

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