When property mogul Tim Gurner launched his ultra-exclusive private wellness club, Saint Haven, in Collingwood in 2023, it marked a new era for Melbourne’s luxury lifestyle scene. Since then, Gurner has expanded his wellness empire with locations in South Yarra, an invite-only venue in Toorak, and a spin-off in St Kilda known as Saint. Last Saturday, Gurner unveiled his latest venture, Saint Black, inside the newly constructed Madison Grand building in Southbank. This new location, spread across three levels, is the largest in the Saint wellness group portfolio.
Despite being approximately 40% larger than its predecessors, Saint Black’s memberships, which start at around $130 per week, are nearly at capacity. The original Saint Haven was conceived as a tranquil retreat, but the Saint spin-offs, including Saint Black, target a younger, more dynamic audience with a slightly more accessible price point.
Redefining Wellness for a New Generation
According to Sean Carey, general manager of the Saint wellness group, “Saint Haven is your second home to surrender, unwind and recharge. Whereas Saint is your personal HQ, an environment that’s energising, dynamic, and sensory.” This shift in focus reflects a broader trend in the wellness industry, where spaces are evolving to meet the needs of a younger demographic seeking innovative workout experiences and social opportunities beyond traditional nightlife venues.
Design-wise, Saint Black distinguishes itself with a bold aesthetic. While Saint Haven is characterized by calming soft neutrals, Saint Black embraces darker tones, featuring black and white Calacatta marble, travertine, and striking gold accents. The luxury experience begins at the entrance, where guests pass through a “sensory cube”—an immersive portal that uses music and visuals to set the mood upon arrival.
A Hub for Fitness and Social Connection
On the ground floor, visitors find a tea bar and a restaurant that doubles as a co-working space. The menu includes familiar offerings like smoothies, naturopathic tea, and adaptogen-infused cocktails, alongside new additions such as pastas. Ascending the grand golden staircase, guests reach the mezzanine, home to the largest gym floor across all Saint locations. This state-of-the-art facility offers more than 200 classes weekly, including reformer Pilates, yoga, strength and conditioning, breathwork, and sound baths.
Each session begins with an energizing shot of beetroot, ginger, and watermelon, while a magnesium-infused electrolyte drink awaits participants at the conclusion, embodying the club’s commitment to holistic wellness.
The Business of Luxury Wellness
The opening of Saint Black comes at a time when the luxury wellness market is experiencing significant growth. According to a report by the Global Wellness Institute, the wellness economy is projected to reach $7 trillion by 2025. This expansion is driven by increased consumer interest in health, fitness, and self-care, particularly among younger generations seeking experiences that integrate wellness into their daily lives.
“The wellness industry is no longer just about fitness; it’s about creating spaces that offer a complete lifestyle experience,” says industry expert Dr. Lisa Thompson. “Saint Black exemplifies this trend by combining high-end fitness facilities with social and co-working spaces.”
Looking Ahead
As Saint Black establishes itself in Southbank, its success could pave the way for further expansion of the Saint brand, potentially reaching new markets both domestically and internationally. The club’s innovative approach to combining wellness with social and professional networking may set a new standard for luxury wellness facilities worldwide.
For now, Saint Black stands as a testament to the evolving landscape of wellness, where luxury, community, and personal growth intersect. As the doors open to this new sanctuary, Melbourne’s wellness enthusiasts have a new destination to explore, offering a glimpse into the future of holistic living.
