# Neighborhood Wellness Saunas Akari Sauna Greenpoint is a Japanese-Inspired Members’ Sauna By Amy Duong | Published 2026-01-18 | Art & Design Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/akari-sauna-greenpoint References: [stroop.design](https://www.stroop.design/) & [akarisauna](https://www.akarisauna.com/)  [Akari Sauna Greenpoint](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/akari-lamp) is a membership-based neighborhood sauna located at 149 Franklin Street in the Greenpoint area of Brooklyn, New York. The sauna is inspired by Japanese sentō and onsen traditions and aims to create a [communal wellness space](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nrg-haus) rooted in those practices. The facility includes very hot dry saunas and a cold plunge pool intended for contrast therapy and relaxation. Access to Akari is granted through a membership model with a no reservations-based model. Akari derives its name from the Japanese word for “light” and reflects its founder’s connection to the cultural context of community saunas. The interior fit-out incorporates minimalist finishes and custom millwork designed to create a tranquil environment for members. The space is structured to provide a quiet gathering place that balances heat, rest, and contrast elements in a small wellness setting. Image Credit: Crooked Letter ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 7.8/10 - Popularity: 86% | Activity: 85% | Freshness: 62% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) ## Key Themes ### What Makes This Trend Stand Out - **Membership-based Wellness:** The shift towards membership models in wellness spaces like Akari Sauna highlights the growing demand for exclusive, community-focused health experiences. - **Cultural Integration in Wellness:** Japanese-inspired design and cultural practices are increasingly being integrated into wellness facilities, offering unique and authentic health experiences. - **Contrast Therapy Adoption:** Contrast therapy, utilizing very hot saunas and cold plunge pools, is gaining popularity as an innovative approach to holistic health and relaxation. ### Sectors Adopting This - **Health and Wellness:** The health and wellness industry is evolving with a focus on communal experiences and innovative therapies like those offered by neighborhood saunas. - **Hospitality:** Hospitality sectors are incorporating wellness-centered facilities, providing guests with relaxation and health-focused experiences through culturally inspired environments. - **Interior Design:** Interior design within wellness spaces is being redefined by minimalist, culturally influenced aesthetics that prioritize tranquility and user experience. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Ambient Grow Lamps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/aura-ambient-grow-light.md) - [Desert Sanctuary Exhibits](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/oasis.md) - [Smart Access Control Terminals](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/smart-access-control-terminal.md) - [Luxury Tequila-Branded Events](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/aspen-gay-ski-week.md) - [Micro-Weighted Leggings](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/microload-gtights.md) - [West African Design Shows](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/design-in-west-africa.md) - [Community Hall Interiors](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sangha-bhawan.md) - [Award-Winning Illumination Memorials](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/awardwinning-illumination.md) - [Chic Dining Cruise Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/studio-locomotive.md)