Milan, known for its stylish lifestyle and thriving business scene, has quietly emerged as a hub for exclusive members-only clubs. This trend is fueled by the influx of international residents seeking the city’s charm and tax incentives. In this exclusive circle, the newly opened The Wilde stands out as a testament to Milan’s luxurious, yet discreet, ambiance.
Nestled within a former palazzo owned by Santo Versace, the club’s unassuming entrance on the leafy Via dei Giardini conceals a world of refined elegance. The Wilde is a testament to discretion and understated cool, a philosophy instilled by its founders: hospitality entrepreneur Gary Landsberg, former executive chairman and shareholder of London’s The Arts Club, and creative director Alasdair Willis.
The club’s British-Milanese pedigree draws an international crowd from various sectors, including art, fashion, design, finance, and society. Ben Pundole, the club’s chief brand and marketing officer, emphasizes Milan’s allure: “It’s a time of global mobility, and Milan is experiencing a moment, with its blend of great culture, cuisine, and relevance in the fashion and design worlds.”
The Wilde’s aesthetic is a seamless blend of classic Milanese design and modern sophistication. Milan-born, Paris-based architect Fabrizio Casiraghi, known for his elegant interiors at the chic Sant’Ambroeus café and restaurant, has crafted the club’s spaces.
Spanning four floors and culminating in a sprawling rooftop terrace overlooking the garden of Palazzo Borromeo d’Adda, The Wilde offers a curated experience. Members can indulge in diverse cuisines at the various restaurants, from traditional Mediterranean dishes to Latin American-Japanese delicacies. The club also houses Arturo’s, a sophisticated cigar lounge tucked away in a cozy nook, perfect for intimate conversations.
The Wilde’s commitment to cultural enrichment is evident in its dedicated spaces for talks, live performances, and private dining rooms for intimate gatherings. However, fitness enthusiasts may be disappointed as the club doesn’t offer a gym, reflecting its emphasis on a polished and refined atmosphere where members are expected to arrive already fit and stylish.
Casiraghi approached the design as if it were a “family palazzo”, drawing inspiration from the historic Milanese residences on the street. He aimed for a cohesive aesthetic, avoiding a theme park feel. The design is a testament to Milanese style, showcasing a clean and restrained approach with a touch of Art Deco.
His inspiration, Villa Necchi Campiglio, a Rationalist gem designed by architect Piero Portaluppi, informed his choice of a refined, timeless Milanese aesthetic. Casiraghi explains, “I wanted to avoid any flourishings or Baroque ornamentation, aiming for a refined, timeless Milanese aesthetic—nothing overly flashy or loud that doesn’t belong to the spirit of the city.”
The club’s elegance is further enhanced by subtle touches. Softly patterned fabrics by Arjumand World textile designer Idarica Gazzoni Frascara and romantic wall paintings by artist Assia Pallavicino add a touch of warmth to the sleek dark walnut furnishings. The use of handcrafted tableware by Laboratorio Paravicini and a curated selection of art from Ed Tang’s Art Bureau underscores the club’s commitment to local artisans and the world of art.
The Wilde’s name reflects the club’s philosophy of merging tradition with modernity. Pundole explains, “While maintaining old-school service, clubs today must also embrace the modern. The wild is where everything comes together—humans, animals, everything—and there’s also a subtle reference to Oscar Wilde.”
This modern take on classic Milanese charm and sophistication, as embodied in The Wilde, is poised to solidify Milan’s position as a global hub for discerning individuals seeking an exclusive and refined experience. As Oscar Wilde himself might have said, “I have the simplest tastes. I’m always satisfied with the best.” The Wilde epitomizes that sentiment, offering an unparalleled blend of old-world charm and contemporary luxury.
