What does it mean to be an Architect of Connections? In this deeply personal essay, AmirAli Zinati shares the path that led him from architecture to storytelling, strategy, and community building—and how each chapter shaped the way he works today.

Private clubs have long held a special place in society. Their history stretches back centuries, serving as exclusive spaces for the elite to gather, socialize, and collaborate. From London’s gentlemen’s clubs of the 18th century to modern yacht clubs, the formation of these institutions was driven by a desire to create a refuge for shared values, cultural exchange, and leisure pursuits. Understanding the origins of private clubs helps us appreciate why they remain so relevant today.