NYC-Based Bathhouse And Wellness Spa Approved In Stamford Despite Resident Concerns

STAMFORD, CT — Bathhouse, a New York City-based bathhouse and wellness spa, is set to come to Stamford and the Harbor Point neighborhood following unanimous approval from the city's zoning board this week despite some concerns from nearby residents.

The facility would be built on what is currently a parking lot on the northwest corner of the intersection of Washington Boulevard and Atlantic Street.

"In response to a growing demand for entertainment alternatives to alcohol-driven activities such as clubs, bars and restaurants, Bathhouse provides a unique health and wellness experience in a social atmosphere. While the concept has roots in nineteenth century New York City, Bathhouse has elevated this idea with a sleek, modern and serene environment," a description of the proposed development says in submitted documents.

The first Bathhouse location opened in Brooklyn, N.Y., in 2019, and a second location opened in Manhattan's Flatiron District in 2024.

"The facility promotes contrast therapy, the practice of alternating between extreme heat and extreme cold, which is said to stimulate circulation, reduce inflammation and promote overall wellness. At the same time, Bathhouse also facilitates social engagement while adults rest and recharge," submitted documents note.

The two-story building would feature saunas, steam rooms, pools of different temperatures, and treatment rooms for massage and body scrubs.

In the warmer months, the rooftop will feature a large outdoor pool with cabanas and lounge chairs, as well as several gathering spaces.

Patrons, who can come for the day or subscribe to a monthly Bathhouse membership, will also be able to enjoy concessions on the rooftop.

The design of the building was changed over the course of the Zoning Board's multi-wee review.

Lisa Feinberg, attorney for applicant Five Harbor Point Square LLC, gave a brief presentation on Monday to go through several changes made to the design of the building.

Notably, windows on the facade of the building were enlarged, which increased transparency of the glass. Additionally, a landscaping buffer was added to the entire frontage of the western facade, and weeping juniper plantings were added to the rooftop edge.

"We've tried to be as responsive to your feedback as we could be, while not jeopardizing the integrity of the use or the privacy of the guests," Feinberg told the board.

Chair David Stein called the improvements "really good."

Board member, Rosanne McManus, agreed.

"I really appreciate the improvement. I think that will look great in the neighborhood," she said.

However, the majority of residents who spoke during a public hearing on the proposal opposed the project or voiced concerns about potential noise from the rooftop.

"That type of noise is really going to be impactful to quality of life," said Vinny Montemurro. "We'd like to see a noise study done and potential mitigation proposed."

John DeRosa, a South End resident for over 35 years, said he was "appalled that something like this is even discussed to be used in the South End." He criticized the building's appearance, saying it looked like a factory.

Some residents spoke in favor of the facility.

"I've been a frequent user of Bathhouse locations already, and believe it has a positive impact for those in the growing wellness community," said Cody Heisinger, a North Stamford resident. "I think the new building design is attractive, modern and clean."

Heisinger, however, took issue with the windows and said patrons appreciate privacy.

As part of approval conditions for the project to address resident concerns, the board stipulated that "any rooftop music shall be maintained at volumes to serve as ambient music for the pool area and not be amplified to spillover outside the property boundaries in compliance with the Stamford Noise Ordinance."

Prior to the issuance of a certificate of occupancy, the applicant "shall conduct a noise test to ensure the noise levels from the rooftop cannot be heard from outside the property boundaries."