A new social club promising “cultural connection” has opened in Washington, D.C.
K.J. Hughes is a co-founder of the 9,700-square-foot social club called Manifest 002 at Union Market. He carries more than two decades of experience in nightlife, athlete and artist management, and consumer experiences, according to his LinkedIn.
According to WWD, Manifest 002 is an expansion of the first location, which opened in 2021 in the Adams Morgan neighborhood. Hughes cofounded the organization alongside Creative Director Brian Merritt and Head of Marketing Susan Morgan.
“There needs to be more representation in this hospitality-type space. The same people are getting the same opportunities over and over and over again.” Hughes told Robb Report.
What To Expect
Per Robb Report, Manifest 002 is designed by INC Architecture & Design and includes a coffee shop, restaurant, cocktail lounge, private dining space, and barbershop. The space will also feature a clothing store with products from Rick Owens, Marni, MM6 Maison Margiela, Willy Chavarri, Saucony, Salomon, and select items from Margiela and Jacquemus to cater to women.
Now, more than ever, people are seeking community and third spaces to decompress and connect.
“I think [people are] starved for more than a transaction,” Hughes said, according to WWD.
“What we tried to put together is this hybrid, multifaceted space for cultural connection. So as much as it’s about the retail and the coffee and the café and the barbershop, it’s about belonging,” Hughes continued.
Membership Program
While visitors are welcome to stop by priority reservations, regular grooming services, and special programming, WWD reports.
The club has already caught the attention of former first lady Michelle Obama, who recorded a podcast in the space, per WWD. As demand for Manifest 002 grows, the company hopes to continue to attract brands interested in fostering community.
