A Sanctuary in the City: The Design of “Saint” by BoND
Architecture firm BoND has carved out a unique niche in the world of wellness with the design of Saint, a private sauna that offers a transformative escape from the bustling streets of Chelsea, New York. Drawing inspiration from the compact organization of a bento box, BoND presents a space where every element serves a purpose.
The Vision Behind Saint
The inception of Saint was spearheaded by co-founders Alex Feldman and Amanda Taylor-Hensen in 2024, even before a physical location was established. The founders envisioned a tranquil haven—a space defined not by the clinical sterility often found in wellness environments, but by the warmth and comfort of a residential interior. The design strives to encapsulate “genuine quiet,” allowing patrons to immerse themselves in relaxation and contemplation.
Thoughtful Layout and Design Logic
Occupying 1,100 square feet (about 102 square meters), the layout includes four private “wellness pods,” each with its own sauna, cold-plunge bath, shower, and changing area. BoND embraced the concept of interlocking volumes akin to a bento box—favoring space efficiency and intimacy over sprawling corridors. This innovative design approach creates a schema that feels cozy and inviting rather than cramped.
Lighting: Embracing the Dark
One of the most challenging aspects of Saint’s design was the lack of natural light. Instead of fighting against it, BoND leaned into the atmospheric conditions. Collaborating with EMY After Dark, the design team created a dynamic lighting scheme that enhances the richness of materials used throughout the space. The interplay of shadow and light highlights surfaces, creating a serene ambiance.
Material Palette: A Journey Through Texture
Saint’s interior is a masterclass in the artful use of materials, merging influences from Japanese onsens and Nordic saunas. A dark and enveloping palette combines:
- Slate: A rough yet refined texture that wraps wet areas, offering a grounded feel.
- Terrazzo: Used in floating vanities and flooring, it evokes a sense of modernity while softening the edges.
- Cypress: This pale-grained wood adds natural fragrance and warmth to the sauna interiors.
- Walnut: Bringing in a residential touch, walnut lines the changing areas, making them feel inviting and cozy.
Each material choice contributes to the overarching narrative of tranquility and elegance, ensuring that the space feels like a home away from home.
The Wellness Pods: A Unique Experience
Inside the wellness pods, visitors can expect a series of thoughtfully curated experiences. Each pod features a dry sauna, cold plunge, shower, and dressing area, designed with meticulous care to ensure that guests feel both private and pampered. The dressing areas, in particular, are said to exemplify genuine architectural attention, creating a serene space where guests can prepare to return to the outside world, refreshed and rejuvenated.
The Evolving Sauna Scene in NYC
Saint is not only a statement piece by BoND but also a part of the evolving sauna and bathing culture in New York City, which has gained momentum in recent years. Establishments like Othership in Flatiron, the industrial Bathhouse in Williamsburg, and the traditional Japanese-style Akari in Greenpoint reflect a burgeoning interest in wellness-focused spaces that balance relaxation with artistic design.
Photography and Visual Appeal
The visual storytelling of Saint has been exquisitely captured by Chris Mottalini, highlighting the textural contrasts and atmospheric qualities of the space. Each image invites viewers to feel the intimacy and warmth that the design team aimed to cultivate.
Through careful planning, innovative design, and a cohesive narrative, BoND’s Saint stands as a remarkable testament to the potential of urban wellness spaces. The studio’s expertise not only revitalizes the traditional sauna experience but also prompts a re-evaluation of how we define relaxation in the heart of the city.