CAIRO: “The atmosphere is of a very feminine club … It’s very seductive, says Tahir Sultan, as he explains the essence of London’s high-end club M1NT. “You walk in and you see eclectic turner prize artworks on the lush purple walls, suede couches with velvet cushions, fish tanks and the lights get dimmer and dimmer throughout the night.
In a basement on Sloane Street in West London lies this lavish little bar and club. Cliental include celebrites, society, sports and business trailblazers, as well as a cosmopolitan fusion of cultures and that ambiance of just enough je ne sais quoi.
At the beginning of the evening, the place is an elegant cocktail lounge. But the later it gets in the day and the light dims, it becomes a night club as people dance with abandon. It stays active until 3:00 a.m. as the fabulous DJs play house and R&B tunes.
Sultan is the event manager of M1NT, who was in Cairo last week. He feels that as Egyptians are in and out of London so often, it is essential for them to spend a night at this refined venue.
The bar turned club is unique in many ways. Besides its beautifully calm and ultramodern décor, its plush atmosphere and selected patrons, the club also pioneered a very special offer.
M1NT offers shareholder packages as opposed to memberships. This allows patrons to reap an estimated 7-10 percent return on their investment for just spending time in the renowned night spot. So as well as making a profit, every shareholder can enjoy the night literally at their own bar. This allows them to attend the venue, bring guests and book the venue for private or corporate functions. With full membership rights they will also part-own the establishment and enjoy a share in its profits.
“M1NT is the ultimate personal lifestyle product, comments 28-year-old Lord John Gretton, one of M1NT s founding shareholders. It provides intimacy, style and access in addition to offering individuals the chance to hold a stake in their own cocktail bar, through which they can mingle with likeminded individuals without annual fees.
Another characteristic that makes M1NT standout from other London night scenes are the special events that put forth. As M1NT is on Knightsbridge, close to Escada, Roberto Cavali and Prada among others, it is only natural to have fashion shows there. Recently they held a successful La Perla fashion show.
As well as fashion shows, private parties and product launches, M1NT also holds charity events. Not long ago they held a fundraising function for the children who are suffering in Iraq; they created a concept around belly dancers that added fun to the event.
There are only two draw backs to M1NT. It only holds up to 200 people which could limit some functions and it does not offer food on a regular basis. Otherwise it’s the perfect place to enjoy when you’re visiting London. The mix of elegance and comfort that M1NT offers guarantees a good night out.
M1NT is located at 164 Sloane Street, Knightsbridge, SW1X 9QB. See www.m1nt.co.uk for more information and visuals.
