by Sophie Yardley
“Common Ground for Uncommon People”
As an independent private members’ club dedicated to Bristol’s creative industries, we’ve partnered with over forty esteemed members’ clubs worldwide to offer our community exclusive reciprocal access during their travels. Each reciprocal club in our collection has been thoughtfully selected to ensure their values align with ours. So wherever your journey takes you, you can trust there’s a welcoming home away from home waiting for you.
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For this Jet Set feature, we’re delighted to introduce you to the MESH Club in Johannesburg.
Nestled in Johannesburg’s vibrant Keyes Art Mile, MESH Club is a space for entrepreneurs, creatives, and industry leaders to connect, work, and socialise. Embodying the ethos of “common ground for uncommon people,” MESH offers a dynamic environment that blends functionality with inspiration.
Members enjoy access to versatile workspaces and meeting rooms, all complemented by concierge services and wellness offerings. The club’s interiors showcase a striking juxtaposition of contemporary art and design, featuring works by both emerging and established South African artists. Beyond its physical space, MESH fosters a unique community through regular events; music, art and cocktails are accompanied by sunsets and interesting conversations, bringing extraordinary people together.
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We had the pleasure of catching up with Luyanda Dladla, Events Coordinator for the MESH CLUB and The Keyes Art Mile, to discover more about the club, and get all the insider tips for planning your trip to Johannesburg.
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How would you describe Johannesburg to someone who’s never been?
Johannesburg is a city of contrasts and energy, it is raw, real, and constantly reinventing itself. It’s where history and innovation collide, where creativity pulses through the streets, and where people are unafraid to dream big. The city is always awake and alive, always buzzing with ambition, movement, and a deep sense of purpose. It’s full of hardworking individuals who are here to grow, to build, and to live a better life. Joburg isn’t just a place you visit, it’s a place you feel, a city that grabs you with its intensity and leaves you inspired.
What inspired the creation of MESH Club, and how does it contribute to the spirit of Johannesburg?
MESH was born out of a desire to create a space that embodies the entrepreneurial and artistic pulse of Johannesburg. It’s more than a members’ club, it’s a community of thinkers, creators, and doers. By offering a curated space for collaboration, conversation, and culture, MESH contributes to the city’s forward-thinking and creative identity.
Where would you recommend staying when visiting the city?
The Rosebank and Sandton area is ideal for visitors, it’s safe, vibrant, and centrally-located. The Four Seasons in Westcliff, 54 on Bath, and The Peech Hotel offer stylish, comfortable stays with great access to the city’s key attractions. For those wanting a more boutique experience, there are some beautiful guesthouses tucked away in leafy suburbs like Parkhurst and Melville.
What are your go-to places to eat, drink and soak up the local vibe?
I love the energy at Coalition for amazing pizza, Marble for a luxurious dining experience, and The Pantry for something casual yet elevated. For drinks, Sin + Tax is a hidden gem cocktail bar, and Mix Bar at Keyes offers great views and even better vibes. Keyes Art Night provides Johannesburg residents with a distinguished platform to exhibit their creations, immerse themselves in compelling visual art, and partake in an evening enriched by culture and ambiance.
What are your insider tips for places to see, cultural experiences, or hidden gems that give a real sense of Joburg?
The Johannesburg Art Gallery and the Wits Art Museum offer beautiful and often overlooked collections. Nirox Sculpture Park on a Sunday gives you live music, art, food, and people-watching all in one. Constitution Hill is a powerful site of history and transformation, and catching a show at the Market Theatre is always a good idea. For a deeply rooted experience, step onto Vilakazi Street in Soweto, where history hums beneath your feet and the spirit of the nation comes alive. Amid the rhythm of street musicians and the aroma of traditional dishes, you’ll find Nelson Mandela’s former home, a powerful reminder of resilience, hope, and the journey to freedom.
What’s your favourite thing about being based in Johannesburg—and what should visitors know that they might not expect?
What I love most about Johannesburg is its electric energy; it’s bold, vibrant, and full of possibility. The people here are some of the friendliest and welcoming you’ll ever meet, always ready to connect, share a story, or point you toward something exciting. Joburg has a surprising side too, beneath the fast pace, you’ll find lush green spaces, quiet corners, and an undeniable sense of soul. There’s so much to explore here, from culture and cuisine to art and history. The city has layers, and every visit reveals something new. You just need a curious spirit and an open heart.
Where will your Square Club membership take you next?
Reciprocal access is available to members via Sonato Alliance.
2nd Floor Trumpet On Keyes,
21 Keyes Avenue,
Rosebank, JHB
