Eight New York City saunas and bathhouses for defrosting in style
For those starting or continuing their wellness journey this new year, we've compiled a selection of design-forward saunas and bathhouses in which to socialise and warm up in New York's freezing winter temperatures.
Bathhouse culture has exploded in NYC in recent years, driven by a demand for wellness-focused experiences and communal alcohol-free spaces.
The reinvigorating benefits of cycling the body through hot and cold temperatures have been understood since Ancient Greek and Roman times, and sauna and bathhouse culture has remained popular in many parts of the world: from Scandinavia and Russia, to Turkey and Japan.
New Yorkers are finally catching on, and several brands have opened one or more locations across the city. Many have strategically used interior design to heighten the atmosphere and promote relaxation inside their spaces. Here are some of our favorites:
Bathhouse, Williamsburg, by Verona Carpenter Architects
One of the first to expand this market in 2019, Bathhouse opened its first location inside a former soda factory in Williamsburg. Many of the original features of the 1930s industrial building were retained by Verona Carpenter Architects, including exposed brickwork and wood ceiling trusses.
Meanwhile, additions include geometric matte-black tiles and a custom aqua and white tile wall mural by illustrator Amit Greenberg depicting an Ancient Roman-inspired bathing scene as a focal point.
Find out more about Bathhouse ›
Bathhouse, Flatiron, by Rockwell Group
Following the success of the first Bathhouse space, the team approached local studio Rockwell Group to create a totally different experience for its Manhattan location.
Designed to evoke the remnants of an ancient civilisation, inverted pyramids are suspended over the bathing pools, and striated travertine wraps the walls. A dark and dramatic entrance sequence and equally atmospheric changing areas evoke a more futuristic aesthetic.
Othership, Flatiron, by Futurestudio
Othership's 9,550-square-foot (887 square metres) sauna and ice bath experience in Manhattan's Flatiron District is the brand's third outpost, after two in Toronto, with interiors for all locations by Toronto-based Futurestudio.
Guests referred to as "journeyers" have access to a spacious 640-square-foot (59-square-metre) performance sauna and ice baths for up to 16 people in a private cold sanctuary room. There's also an amphitheatre-style tea lounge, where guests can gather around a central fireplace to socialise.
Othership also recently opened in Williamsburg with a similar interior style.
Find out more about Othership ›
Akari, Williamsburg, by Mark Hinchcliff, Shayna Olsan and Luke Carstens
Founders Shayna Olsan and Luke Carstens opened Akari – their ode to Japanese sentōs and onsens – in 2023 as a membership model so members can use the sauna and cold plunge pool as many times as they like for a capped fee.
The duo worked with architect Mark Hinchcliff on the project, creating a warm and intimate space that leads to a garden at the back. Recently updated, this outdoor space includes a larger plunge pool and a seating area intended as a quiet refuge from the city.
Akari, Greenpoint, by Stroop Design
For the brand's second outpost, which opened in 2025, the Akari team enlisted interiors studio Stroop Design and thermal consultant Kiel Moe to help craft a space that references the Japanese traditions around which the concept is based.
Glass-block walls, green tiles around the cold plunge, and a skylight in the larger sauna are all notable features. Akari is also due to op its first Manhattan location on the Lower East Side later this year.
Find out more about Akari Greenpoint ›
Lore Bathing Club, Noho, by Ringo Studio and Studioilse
Founded by James O'Reilly and Adam Elzer, Lore Bathing Club spans 6,200 square feet (576 square metres) over two floors, including a Finnish sauna, an infrared sauna, a large cold pool and hammam-style heated benches. The founders consulted with Ringo Studio and Studioilse to bring the design to life.
Warm travertine and textured floors define the cold plunge, while rich alder wood and deep chocolate tones envelop the sauna, creating a soothing environment for members and single-session guests.
Saint, Chelsea, by BoND
Architecture studio BoND is behind the interiors of Saint, which offers four intimate "studios" each designed for one or two people.
Custom American walnut millwork in these spaces pairs with Italian terrazzo vanities and flooring, while the cedar dry sauna is complemented by an ice bath and shower area in Brazilian slate.
SAA, East Williamsburg, by Bench Architecture
The spa area at co-working members' club SAA occupies the top level of the former warehouse and enjoys panoramic views of the city skyline.
As part of the building's overhaul, Bench Architecture used dramatic green marble to line the sauna, steam room, hammam, cold plunge pool and warm bathing pool. There's also a set of smaller wood-lined sauna pods positioned on the roof.
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