Where we highlight the retailers and spas that carry Monastery around the world.
The Hotel Chelsea is more than a hotel—it’s a cultural landmark, woven into the fabric of New York City’s history. Long celebrated as a haven for artists, writers, and free spirits, its walls have witnessed decades of creativity mixed with luxury. We’re so proud to have Monastery at home in such an iconic space, complementing its legacy with our timeless approach to skincare. The level of care, creativity and classics are unmatched. We spoke with Spa Director, Alexis Elmurr, about the Spa at Hotel Chelsea about skincare and the ethos at the spa of Hotel Chelsea.
Q: Can you describe the Spat at Hotel Chelsea’s ethos when it comes to skincare?
A: Truly, the ethos for skincare remains the same as our overall ethos for the Spa. We strive to consistently celebrate holistic wellness, creative expression, and unconventional elegance. Aiming to embrace a “post-luxury” mindset and acting as a conduit to escape the constant overstimulation of modern life… and these ideals were all (extremely) thoughtfully in place prior to me stepping into this serene space. We like to encourage playfulness as well as stripping back to (beautiful) basics; there’s a reason our treatment rooms aren’t teeming with tons of technical devices. We want skincare to feel like a ritual, not a routine. The trending idea of “romanticizing” the tedium of everyday life rings true because… why not? Everyone deserves to pause and take moments for themselves, and the skincare we select for the Spa reflects those ideals accordingly.
Q: What compelled you to work in the skincare world?
A: Like many others, I personally struggled with skin concerns (hormonal acne made a super fun appearance around 23 years old) and my own esthetician transformed my skin, so I was made a believer. I’ve also always had a penchant for beauty and wellness and previously worked in the boutique fitness industry (a la SoulCycle and [solidcore]). I’m a bit biased, but I have never worked alongside a more talented esthetic team in a more stunning setting.
Q: What drew the Spa at Hotel Chelsea to Monastery?
A: I would be absolutely remiss to not mention our wonderful Lead Esthetician, Amity, who has championed a few of the brands we’ve brought into the Spa. She was kind enough to connect me with Monastery; once I met with the team and personally tried the products, I was a convert. As someone with acne-prone skin, I’ve always been wary of botanical products for my face, especially anything that is oil-forward, but my skin responded so well to all of the products, and now most of my medicine cabinet is Monastery (so, it looks stunning).
Q: What can clients expect when they come to the space?
A: The first thing guests always say is, “it smells so good here.” So, aside from the serene scent, guests can expect a warm welcome and an immediate drop in blood pressure. The Spa at Hotel Chelsea doesn’t feel like it’s sitting atop 23rd street in NYC; they can expect an escape that usually only European vacations can evoke. The Spa is very much one of those places that you have to experience to fully understand. Ultimately, we hope that guests leave feeling even just a bit lighter than when they arrived – whether that’s achieved via facial, massage, or a healing arts service is up to you.
Q: What do you want to see more of in the skincare space?
A: Esthetician-owned brands – In Groov, Sofie Pavitt, Monastery… all incredible.
Q: What was an aha moment you had in skincare in your life?
A: SPF, SPF, SPF
Q: How does running a business in NYC inform the Spa at Hotel Chelsea’s business?
A: NYC is over saturated with wellness options (and, okay, everything)… be that fitness, beauty, anything. That said, trying to remind yourself that there is room at the table for all. It is very easy to look around and constantly compare the space and our offerings to every other (amazing) wellness business in the area, but I try to put blinders on when I find myself bombarded by comparison. Don’t get me wrong, it’s always useful to contextualize, but, overall, I urge myself and my team to focus on making us the best version of us – and hopefully, that version resonates with our guests.
Find the complete Monastery line in store or book the bespoke Monastery facial at www.hotelchelsea.com
Currently, Monastery founder, Athena Hewett, is in residency at Hotel Chelsea. For bookings, please email spa@hotelchelsea.com
