Overview
As work and wellness increasingly become intertwined, there are few better expressions of this shift than the newly opened The Commons Health Club South Yarra. Marking the brand's second sprawling social wellness destination — following its recent move into the space after years at the top of the coworking game — this new location is officially the largest setup of its kind in inner-city Melbourne.
Spanning 5000 square metres across eight architecturally designed levels, this multi-faceted health club stacks five storeys of fitness and recovery on top of three more dedicated to work and community. Ideally positioned opposite South Yarra Station, the club's heritage home was built in 1887 as an ornate coffee palace — an alcohol-free alternative to Melbourne's corner pubs and boozy residential hotels. Now, nearing 150 years later, wellness is back in a big way at the same location.
Behind the new look is the leading architectural and interior design practice DesignOffice, which has reimagined the space with a warm material palette of cork, blonde timber and concrete. Yet don't expect stoic minimalism throughout — a sense of playfulness was central to the revitalisation, featuring layered pops of lemon, mint, dusty blue and more, as well as lush pockets of greenery and abundant natural light.
That makes the extensive amenities even more appealing, with The Commons Health Club South Yarra's bathhouse offering a 39-degree magnesium pool, a 6-degree cold plunge, a traditional sauna, a steam room, and heated stone benches. Meanwhile, recovery is a clear focus, with red light therapy, lymphatic compression and infrared saunas just some of the ways you can rejuvenate after a long day at the desk. Then, expect styling stations, a seasonal fragrance bar, a private laundry service and wellness concierge to elevatate each session further.
There's also a range of signature experiences, such as candlelit magnesium soaks and community-led rituals, designed to foster connection and restoration. Then, you're invited to take part in cutting-edge health assessments and personal training programs, helping members stay on top of their performance and long-term wellbeing. All told, there are 200 classes each week, from hot mat pilates and strength training to breathwork, sound healing and aerobics.
"The opening of The Commons South Yarra marks a defining moment for us," says co-founder and CEO Cliff Ho. "As the city's largest social wellness destination, we're proud to play a role in bringing people together and supporting a more connected, balanced way of living, while shaping a new chapter in how Melbourne engages with health and movement."
The Commons Health Club South Yarra is now open at 189 Toorak Rd, South Yarra. Head to the website for more information.
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Images: Supplied.