The Maybourne Group has unveiled its all-new London
hotel The Emory. Megan Whitby goes behind the scenes
at Surrenne, its four-storey health and wellness club
Surrenne has been hailed as London’s hottest new longevity space / photo: SURRENNE
Afunctional medicine clinic, scientific advisory board and the UK’s first Tracy Anderson fitness studio combined with a multisensory spa, 24k gold ceilings, snow showers and mushroom sculptures. These are just some of the standout features of Surrenne, the hot new health and wellness club being heralded as London’s next-generation longevity space.
The 2,000sq m private members wellness enclave covers four floors beneath The Emory, the new all-suite hotel in Knightsbridge, which is owned by the Qatari Investment Authority and managed by The Maybourne Hotel Group, which also operates Claridges.
Leading the charge in conceptualising Surrenne is Inge Theron, founder of spa design firm Inge Theron and Associates. Theron also serves as Maybourne’s creative director of spa and wellness across the group’s five other properties in Europe and the US (see p78). She reveals Maybourne has ambitions to own the longevity market and has big plans for the Surrenne brand.
Commercial concept “Surrenne represents a paradigm shift in wellness,” Theron says. “We’ve considered every detail, meaning it’s at the forefront of science, diagnostics and functional medicine, as well as fitness and holistic wellness and preventative medicine.”
Theron is working on a handful of new projects for Maybourne. Each will have a Surrenne and in every case, its core principles of a guest-centric, science-first, evidence-based and results-driven customer journey will shine through, but with a holistic influence.
“The wellness industry is now on the frontline of health and preventing people from getting sick,” she says. “My job at Maybourne has been to create an instantly recognisable take on longevity that the company can own and roll out around the world.”
Capped at 100 members, annual membership for the London club costs £10,000 (US$12,662, €11,752), with an additional £5,000 (S$6,331, €5,876) joining fee. Hotel guests – both at The Emory and Maybourne’s adjacent hotel, The Berkeley – who aren’t members can also use the facilities on a 24/7 basis.
For members, the essence of Surrenne lies in meeting them where they are on their wellness journey with expert guidance. This starts with a clinical check-up by 3 Peaks Health, a health and lifespan company led by CEO Dr Mark Mihail, who also serves as Surrenne’s medical director.
Insights gleaned from the checks serve as the foundation for personalised plans created by a team of nutritionists, physicians and head of fitness, Simon Inman, who previously helmed the gym at the Dorchester.
“We’re looking at creating journeys that feel incredibly meaningful,” says Theron, “and we’re focusing on small behavioural changes that happen every time members come into a club, which add up to a huge improvement in the long term. Our job is to send guests back into the world feeling better than when they walked in.”
Multisensory environments Spaces in Surrenne have been designed so just being in them improves people’s wellbeing and she’s partnered with wellness innovation consultancy White Mirror (p84) to do this. The sensory aspects they’ve curated include a ‘golden lightscape’ with circadian lighting, an ever-evolving soundscape driven by AI and a bespoke smellscape – all, says Theron, are proven to enhance wellbeing.
“We’ve got the data that shows how fragrances influence neural pathways and what’s been so interesting is that the scent has been so well received because it makes people feel good,” she says. “What captivates me most about Surrenne is the moment you step inside, your nervous system naturally begins to unwind.”
Storytelling Theron’s inspiration for these immersive experiences stems from her previous collaboration with Hollywood film director Baz Luhrmann at Miami’s dramatic Faena Hotel (see www.spabusiness.com/faenamiami).
“Baz taught me to use design as a medium for storytelling,” she says. “He always encouraged me to envision the guest experience – close your eyes, step out of the elevator, what do you smell, hear, see? He instilled in me the importance of crafting moments,” says Theron.
“Now, we’re bringing storytelling into wellness – you need to be confident in what it means to you as a brand and how you want to express that across touchpoints in a consistent and considered way. You can’t build a brand or convince a client of your authority without a compelling story.”
With regards to interiors, Theron worked with star designer Remi Tessier to counterbalance the club’s clinical offering. “Through luxurious interiors and wellness-centric environmental details, Surrenne exudes a delicious, inviting warmth akin to a second home,” she says.
A medical basis In-house programming includes a medical emphasis with options such as microbiome analysis, chiropractic and epigenetic testing.
Members can peruse an extensive menu of services, ranging from GP consultations, MRIs and blood tests to mammograms with advanced medical interventions – including brain scans, carotid artery ultrasounds, AI mole mapping and liver function tests – available via Surrenne’s partner, OneWelbeck.
“Surrenne transcends the traditional spa experience,” says Theron. “Along with their day-to-day wellness routine, members can seamlessly access life-saving diagnostic tests. Then, thanks to our partnership with OneWelbeck, we can expedite referrals to specialists within 48 hours, empowering guests to stay ahead in their health journey.”
Impressive wellness menu Theron believes Surrenne offers one of the most impressive wellness menus in the UK, saying: “We cater for everyone, from those seeking immediate relief to those invested in long-term wellness.”
The spa launched, for example, with the world’s first facial by fashion icon Stella McCartney (see p77). The menu also includes a Korean-inspired 21-step scalp massage and tech-driven GeneoX facial, as well as treatments using products from celebrity plastic surgeon Dr Lara Devgan and Theron’s own facial fitness brand, FaceGym, which she says caters to male clients.
Theron also wants to roll out retreats, saying: “We would send guests wearables, connect with their doctor and arrange for blood tests in their home city, so when they stay with us, we have their results and personalised plans ready.”
Additionally, she has plans for a 12-month schedule of events to help build a sense of community.
Customer base While a significant portion of Surrenne’s early members were female Tracy Anderson devotees, men quickly followed. The typical member profile ranges from affluent locals to business people, elite athletes and longevity enthusiasts.
“Many of our members are well-versed in longevity and already have a team of doctors and specialists, but because we’re brand-agnostic, our head of medical collaborates with their specialists to complement their existing health journey,” says Theron.
“Despite initial apprehensions around pricing, membership provides access to almost £60,000 (US$76,500, €70,100) worth of treatments and diagnostics a year.” In a testament to this, demand has been “through the roof” and all 100 spaces were snapped up in eight weeks.
According to Theron, membership models are poised to transform the wellness industry as they provide the capital necessary for investment, ultimately enabling the operator to enhance the facility and experience.
Hotels and healthcare Hoteliers are recognising that hotel wellness destinations can be a major USP and cash generator. “Today, many affluent guests choose their destinations not only for comfortable amenities and F&B but also for access to healthcare, personalised programming and tools for improving wellbeing,” says Theron.
“I’m excited by the convergence of scientific rigour and accessibility, which is enabling people to integrate wellness into their everyday lives,” she continues. “I expect a fusion of curiosity and commercial insight to fundamentally transform the landscape for wellness businesses.”
• Megan Whitby gives her impressions of Surrenne, visiting a week after it opened, on p80
Stella McCartney was born to a family of creators – her father is Paul McCartney, The Beatles singer and her mother is the late Linda McCartney, a photographer, vegetarian and animal rights activist.
She’s carved a successful name for herself in the fashion industry, pushing from day one to make the clothing industry more sustainable and ethical.
In August 2022, she launched Stella by Stella McCartney in partnership with LVMH Beauty Division. The consumer-facing line includes three products – a cleanser, serum and cream – as well as supplements.
In keeping with her eco-fashion approach, McCartney is committed to changing the beauty landscape by delivering “skincare with a clear conscience”. It’s claimed 99 per cent of the ingredients are natural and 85 per cent are traceable to the country of harvest. The products are also recognised as being vegan and cruelty-free.
In addition, packaging has been designed to be easily recyclable and containers are refillable and made from recycled and renewable materials.
McCartney says: “The truth is that everything we create has an impact, the choice we have is how much. It’s our responsibility to minimise this as much as possible, and, as an industry, to be honest and transparent about it.”
The spa launched with the world’s first facial by fashion icon Stella McCartney
Surrenne suppliers
Designer: Remi Tessier
Skincare: Stella by Stella McCartney, FaceGym, Dr Lara Devgan and Geneo
Treatment beds: Gharieni
Towels, linen and robes: Frette, Nuno and Jalin
Pools: Oak Pools
Heat experiences: Design for Leisure, Klafs and TechnoAlpin
Fitness: Technogym, Woodway, Hydrow, Hyperice and Peloton
The Maybourne Hotel Group
The Maybourne Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, USA
The Maybourne Riviera, Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, France
Claridge’s, London, UK
The Berkeley, London, UK
The Connaught, London, UK
The Emory, London, UK
Read more from this issue of Spa Business magazine
View contents of Spa Business 2024 issue 3
Editor's letter: At a crossroads
As the UK prepares to host this year's Global Wellness Summit, fresh research shows its wellness industry must address a number of issues if it's to maintain levels of unprecedented growth
Spa People: Charlotte Church
The Welsh singer talks about how growing up in the media spotlight has influenced The Dreaming, her healing retreat business
Spa People: Julia Bradbury
Leading a series of Walk Yourself Happy retreats based on her best-selling book and years of TV presenting
Spa People: Samantha Dunn
Shaking up the industry with her new, affordable DIY consultancy programme for entrepreneurs
News report: Big spenders
Finn Partners’ latest research shows how China’s high-net-worth women are redefining luxury travel
News report: Step back in time
Two new GWI reports analyse the growth of the global spa and hot springs markets over the past 10 to 15 years
Interview: Dillip Rajakarier
Following a 450 per cent increase in core revenues, Minor Hotels is planning 200 more properties. Megan Whitby sits down with its CEO
New opening: Kintsugi Space
Patrizia Bortolin talks to Lisa Starr about creating a transformative women-only sanctuary in Abu Dhabi
Research: To inform and inspire
The UK Spa Association has conducted its first survey of spa businesses in the country for 18 years. GM Bobby Griffiths unveils the numbers
Research: From wellness to wellbeing
A new study uncovers four wellness consumer market segments ripe for innovation. WELLSurvey co-author Kevin Kelly reveals the findings in a Spa Business exclusive
First person: To the source
Jane Kitchen takes to the sulphurous waters of Terme di Saturnia in Italy and shares details about its exciting upcoming sister site in Milan
Promotion: L'OCCITANE en Provence – the art of recovery
With an approach to wellbeing that’s both holistic and grounded in science, the latest massage from L’OCCITANE en Provence promises to have a powerfully-beneficial effect on customers, both in the spa and at home
New opening: Surrenne at The Emory
The £15k memberships at this wellness club in London sold out in just weeks. Creator Inge Theron tells us why
First person: Playful wellness
A Stella McCartney facial and Tracy Anderson studio are just two USPs Megan Whitby finds at Surrenne
Promotion: TechnoAlpin – naturally cool design
TechnoAlpin’s snow technology is not only an effective way to introduce gentle cold therapy into the spa environment, it’s also a powerful biophilic design element that can bring the wonder of nature indoors
Promotion: Biologique Recherche – potent partnership
A new anti-senescence serum from Biologique Recherche offers transformative results and raises the bar in anti-ageing skincare when combined with its iconic collagen formula
Promotion: Comfort Zone – A longer life for skin
Created to combat the visible signs of ageing, Comfort Zone’s latest range revamp is based on the company’s pioneering research into cutaneous cellular longevity
Promotion: G.M. COLLIN – Clinical excellence in skincare
With laboratories based in Montreal, G.M. Collin’s highly researched derma-corrective treatments have been helping skincare professionals deliver exceptional and exclusive results worldwide for many decades. We talk to VP Myriam Sayer
In today’s premium spa environment, every detail shapes the guest experience – right down to
the softness of towels and the freshness of linens. [more...]
The Maybourne Group has unveiled its all-new London
hotel The Emory. Megan Whitby goes behind the scenes
at Surrenne, its four-storey health and wellness club
Surrenne has been hailed as London’s hottest new longevity space / photo: SURRENNE
Afunctional medicine clinic, scientific advisory board and the UK’s first Tracy Anderson fitness studio combined with a multisensory spa, 24k gold ceilings, snow showers and mushroom sculptures. These are just some of the standout features of Surrenne, the hot new health and wellness club being heralded as London’s next-generation longevity space.
The 2,000sq m private members wellness enclave covers four floors beneath The Emory, the new all-suite hotel in Knightsbridge, which is owned by the Qatari Investment Authority and managed by The Maybourne Hotel Group, which also operates Claridges.
Leading the charge in conceptualising Surrenne is Inge Theron, founder of spa design firm Inge Theron and Associates. Theron also serves as Maybourne’s creative director of spa and wellness across the group’s five other properties in Europe and the US (see p78). She reveals Maybourne has ambitions to own the longevity market and has big plans for the Surrenne brand.
Commercial concept “Surrenne represents a paradigm shift in wellness,” Theron says. “We’ve considered every detail, meaning it’s at the forefront of science, diagnostics and functional medicine, as well as fitness and holistic wellness and preventative medicine.”
Theron is working on a handful of new projects for Maybourne. Each will have a Surrenne and in every case, its core principles of a guest-centric, science-first, evidence-based and results-driven customer journey will shine through, but with a holistic influence.
“The wellness industry is now on the frontline of health and preventing people from getting sick,” she says. “My job at Maybourne has been to create an instantly recognisable take on longevity that the company can own and roll out around the world.”
Capped at 100 members, annual membership for the London club costs £10,000 (US$12,662, €11,752), with an additional £5,000 (S$6,331, €5,876) joining fee. Hotel guests – both at The Emory and Maybourne’s adjacent hotel, The Berkeley – who aren’t members can also use the facilities on a 24/7 basis.
For members, the essence of Surrenne lies in meeting them where they are on their wellness journey with expert guidance. This starts with a clinical check-up by 3 Peaks Health, a health and lifespan company led by CEO Dr Mark Mihail, who also serves as Surrenne’s medical director.
Insights gleaned from the checks serve as the foundation for personalised plans created by a team of nutritionists, physicians and head of fitness, Simon Inman, who previously helmed the gym at the Dorchester.
“We’re looking at creating journeys that feel incredibly meaningful,” says Theron, “and we’re focusing on small behavioural changes that happen every time members come into a club, which add up to a huge improvement in the long term. Our job is to send guests back into the world feeling better than when they walked in.”
Multisensory environments Spaces in Surrenne have been designed so just being in them improves people’s wellbeing and she’s partnered with wellness innovation consultancy White Mirror (p84) to do this. The sensory aspects they’ve curated include a ‘golden lightscape’ with circadian lighting, an ever-evolving soundscape driven by AI and a bespoke smellscape – all, says Theron, are proven to enhance wellbeing.
“We’ve got the data that shows how fragrances influence neural pathways and what’s been so interesting is that the scent has been so well received because it makes people feel good,” she says. “What captivates me most about Surrenne is the moment you step inside, your nervous system naturally begins to unwind.”
Storytelling Theron’s inspiration for these immersive experiences stems from her previous collaboration with Hollywood film director Baz Luhrmann at Miami’s dramatic Faena Hotel (see www.spabusiness.com/faenamiami).
“Baz taught me to use design as a medium for storytelling,” she says. “He always encouraged me to envision the guest experience – close your eyes, step out of the elevator, what do you smell, hear, see? He instilled in me the importance of crafting moments,” says Theron.
“Now, we’re bringing storytelling into wellness – you need to be confident in what it means to you as a brand and how you want to express that across touchpoints in a consistent and considered way. You can’t build a brand or convince a client of your authority without a compelling story.”
With regards to interiors, Theron worked with star designer Remi Tessier to counterbalance the club’s clinical offering. “Through luxurious interiors and wellness-centric environmental details, Surrenne exudes a delicious, inviting warmth akin to a second home,” she says.
A medical basis In-house programming includes a medical emphasis with options such as microbiome analysis, chiropractic and epigenetic testing.
Members can peruse an extensive menu of services, ranging from GP consultations, MRIs and blood tests to mammograms with advanced medical interventions – including brain scans, carotid artery ultrasounds, AI mole mapping and liver function tests – available via Surrenne’s partner, OneWelbeck.
“Surrenne transcends the traditional spa experience,” says Theron. “Along with their day-to-day wellness routine, members can seamlessly access life-saving diagnostic tests. Then, thanks to our partnership with OneWelbeck, we can expedite referrals to specialists within 48 hours, empowering guests to stay ahead in their health journey.”
Impressive wellness menu Theron believes Surrenne offers one of the most impressive wellness menus in the UK, saying: “We cater for everyone, from those seeking immediate relief to those invested in long-term wellness.”
The spa launched, for example, with the world’s first facial by fashion icon Stella McCartney (see p77). The menu also includes a Korean-inspired 21-step scalp massage and tech-driven GeneoX facial, as well as treatments using products from celebrity plastic surgeon Dr Lara Devgan and Theron’s own facial fitness brand, FaceGym, which she says caters to male clients.
Theron also wants to roll out retreats, saying: “We would send guests wearables, connect with their doctor and arrange for blood tests in their home city, so when they stay with us, we have their results and personalised plans ready.”
Additionally, she has plans for a 12-month schedule of events to help build a sense of community.
Customer base While a significant portion of Surrenne’s early members were female Tracy Anderson devotees, men quickly followed. The typical member profile ranges from affluent locals to business people, elite athletes and longevity enthusiasts.
“Many of our members are well-versed in longevity and already have a team of doctors and specialists, but because we’re brand-agnostic, our head of medical collaborates with their specialists to complement their existing health journey,” says Theron.
“Despite initial apprehensions around pricing, membership provides access to almost £60,000 (US$76,500, €70,100) worth of treatments and diagnostics a year.” In a testament to this, demand has been “through the roof” and all 100 spaces were snapped up in eight weeks.
According to Theron, membership models are poised to transform the wellness industry as they provide the capital necessary for investment, ultimately enabling the operator to enhance the facility and experience.
Hotels and healthcare Hoteliers are recognising that hotel wellness destinations can be a major USP and cash generator. “Today, many affluent guests choose their destinations not only for comfortable amenities and F&B but also for access to healthcare, personalised programming and tools for improving wellbeing,” says Theron.
“I’m excited by the convergence of scientific rigour and accessibility, which is enabling people to integrate wellness into their everyday lives,” she continues. “I expect a fusion of curiosity and commercial insight to fundamentally transform the landscape for wellness businesses.”
• Megan Whitby gives her impressions of Surrenne, visiting a week after it opened, on p80
Stella McCartney was born to a family of creators – her father is Paul McCartney, The Beatles singer and her mother is the late Linda McCartney, a photographer, vegetarian and animal rights activist.
She’s carved a successful name for herself in the fashion industry, pushing from day one to make the clothing industry more sustainable and ethical.
In August 2022, she launched Stella by Stella McCartney in partnership with LVMH Beauty Division. The consumer-facing line includes three products – a cleanser, serum and cream – as well as supplements.
In keeping with her eco-fashion approach, McCartney is committed to changing the beauty landscape by delivering “skincare with a clear conscience”. It’s claimed 99 per cent of the ingredients are natural and 85 per cent are traceable to the country of harvest. The products are also recognised as being vegan and cruelty-free.
In addition, packaging has been designed to be easily recyclable and containers are refillable and made from recycled and renewable materials.
McCartney says: “The truth is that everything we create has an impact, the choice we have is how much. It’s our responsibility to minimise this as much as possible, and, as an industry, to be honest and transparent about it.”
The spa launched with the world’s first facial by fashion icon Stella McCartney
Surrenne suppliers
Designer: Remi Tessier
Skincare: Stella by Stella McCartney, FaceGym, Dr Lara Devgan and Geneo
Treatment beds: Gharieni
Towels, linen and robes: Frette, Nuno and Jalin
Pools: Oak Pools
Heat experiences: Design for Leisure, Klafs and TechnoAlpin
Fitness: Technogym, Woodway, Hydrow, Hyperice and Peloton
The Maybourne Hotel Group
The Maybourne Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, USA
The Maybourne Riviera, Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, France
Claridge’s, London, UK
The Berkeley, London, UK
The Connaught, London, UK
The Emory, London, UK
Read more from this issue of Spa Business magazine
View contents of Spa Business 2024 issue 3
Editor's letter: At a crossroads
As the UK prepares to host this year's Global Wellness Summit, fresh research shows its wellness industry must address a number of issues if it's to maintain levels of unprecedented growth
Spa People: Charlotte Church
The Welsh singer talks about how growing up in the media spotlight has influenced The Dreaming, her healing retreat business
Spa People: Julia Bradbury
Leading a series of Walk Yourself Happy retreats based on her best-selling book and years of TV presenting
Spa People: Samantha Dunn
Shaking up the industry with her new, affordable DIY consultancy programme for entrepreneurs
News report: Big spenders
Finn Partners’ latest research shows how China’s high-net-worth women are redefining luxury travel
News report: Step back in time
Two new GWI reports analyse the growth of the global spa and hot springs markets over the past 10 to 15 years
Interview: Dillip Rajakarier
Following a 450 per cent increase in core revenues, Minor Hotels is planning 200 more properties. Megan Whitby sits down with its CEO
New opening: Kintsugi Space
Patrizia Bortolin talks to Lisa Starr about creating a transformative women-only sanctuary in Abu Dhabi
Research: To inform and inspire
The UK Spa Association has conducted its first survey of spa businesses in the country for 18 years. GM Bobby Griffiths unveils the numbers
Research: From wellness to wellbeing
A new study uncovers four wellness consumer market segments ripe for innovation. WELLSurvey co-author Kevin Kelly reveals the findings in a Spa Business exclusive
First person: To the source
Jane Kitchen takes to the sulphurous waters of Terme di Saturnia in Italy and shares details about its exciting upcoming sister site in Milan
Promotion: L'OCCITANE en Provence – the art of recovery
With an approach to wellbeing that’s both holistic and grounded in science, the latest massage from L’OCCITANE en Provence promises to have a powerfully-beneficial effect on customers, both in the spa and at home
New opening: Surrenne at The Emory
The £15k memberships at this wellness club in London sold out in just weeks. Creator Inge Theron tells us why
First person: Playful wellness
A Stella McCartney facial and Tracy Anderson studio are just two USPs Megan Whitby finds at Surrenne
Promotion: TechnoAlpin – naturally cool design
TechnoAlpin’s snow technology is not only an effective way to introduce gentle cold therapy into the spa environment, it’s also a powerful biophilic design element that can bring the wonder of nature indoors
Promotion: Biologique Recherche – potent partnership
A new anti-senescence serum from Biologique Recherche offers transformative results and raises the bar in anti-ageing skincare when combined with its iconic collagen formula
Promotion: Comfort Zone – A longer life for skin
Created to combat the visible signs of ageing, Comfort Zone’s latest range revamp is based on the company’s pioneering research into cutaneous cellular longevity
Promotion: G.M. COLLIN – Clinical excellence in skincare
With laboratories based in Montreal, G.M. Collin’s highly researched derma-corrective treatments have been helping skincare professionals deliver exceptional and exclusive results worldwide for many decades. We talk to VP Myriam Sayer
A recent survey by the UK Spa Association (UKSA) into the industry’s approach to cancer care
has revealed that almost half of participating respondents (46 per cent) are unaware that
cancer is a disability and guests with a cancer diagnosis must be given
Mexican operator, Solmar Hotels and Resorts, is hosting a series of events in celebration of
Global Wellness Day, including a Temazcal ceremony at its Playa Grande Resort and Spa in Los
Cabos.
Mandarin Oriental has announced a standalone residence brand, Mansions, which will debut at
Emirates Palace, Mandarin Oriental Mansions, Abu Dhabi, in 2029.
Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai in Hoi An, Vietnam, has put together a Global Wellness Day
(GWD) agenda with activations rooted in nature and shaped by four pillars of Joy – in
alignment with the day’s theme #JoyMagenta.
The Global Wellness Summit (GWS) will celebrate its 20th anniversary at the 2026 event in
Phuket, Thailand, later this year with the theme: The Science, Art and Soul of Wellness.
Auko, an all-inclusive development, is opening in Phong Nha in Vietnam in Q3 2026, with a
series of 30 tented eco-lodges and wellness hospitality operations by Lumina Wellbeing.
Therme Manchester’s 28-acre development, which will include interconnected glass pavilions
that measure 65,000sq m, will be the largest bathing and wellbeing attraction in the world once
complete, according to prof David Russell, CEO of Therme UK.
Naples Beach Club, a Four Seasons Resort, has opened a 2,800sq m spa called The Sanctuary,
with the design and concept inspired by the Native American people that populated Florida’s
Southwest coast – the Calusa.
Swire Hotels’ luxury hospitality brand Upper House has revealed it will roll out its two-day
House of Healing retreats at its three hotels in Hong Kong, Chengdu and Shanghai.
In today’s premium spa environment, every detail shapes the guest experience – right down to
the softness of towels and the freshness of linens. [more...]
