In most world-class cities, the opening of a Soho House – a string of London-born, ultra-hip private social clubs – marks another exclusive playground for the creative in-crowd. In Berlin, where the members-only brand opened its latest outpost in May, it's sparked an identity crisis.

Launched 15 years ago in the eponymous London neighbourhood, the Soho House franchise has spread to New York and Los Angeles, and will open in mid-October in Miami. Belonging requires a certain quotient of hipness - with credentials preferably in the media, entertainment, fashion or art worlds - the endorsement of two members and an annual fee between $935 and $1,800 (€730 and €1,400), depending on the city.