Meet Spencer's: Manhattan's Latest It-Spa

The perfect escape from city life is closer than it seems. Over the past few weeks, Spencer's Spa has had a booked schedule filled with New York City's favorite editors, models, influencers, and creatives. Trust us when we say it's completely worth the hype. Located in the heart of Manhattan's SoHo neighborhood, the new luxury day spa features an alluring design, pristine service, and addicting treatments. We spoke with the Founder, Ryan McCarthy, about the new hot spot.

Spencer's Spa ©

Can you talk about the conception of opening Spencer's? What initially inspired you? 

I wanted to create something truly special. A place that was private, exciting, and luxurious in experience but affordable in price. In New York, there really only existed two extremes for massage treatments and facials: the 'cheap and cheerful' basement haunts in Greenwich Village or Chinatown, where hygiene doesn't feel prioritized and licensed therapists are nonexistent, or $400 treatments at an upscale hotel you left feeling 'had' for having spent a small fortune. In between, there are many millennial cookie-cutter fronts with little to offer in the way of inspiration or satisfaction or experience. My favorite ritual in my week is getting a foot massage or facial. Spencer's is my ode to quality, experience, service, aesthetic and convenience. 

Were you already in the wellness/beauty space before opening Spencer's?

I wasn't in the wellness or beauty space, although throughout my career, I have operated businesses in both. I've always felt very close to the industry, keeping abreast of new trends and participating in experiences I thought were relevant to the times. The beauty of Spencer's is in our simplicity - we are not reinventing the wheel. We are doing simple things well; that is what we stand for.

Spencer's Spa ©

Could you discuss the idea behind the location? There's something super special about Spencer's location in the heart of SoHo. It's almost like the space serves as a calm oasis in the heart of the hustle.

I must have toured hundreds of locations throughout the city before finally landing at 550 Broadway. SoHo is so unique; it truly feels as if you're in the center of the city. It's easily accessible, and so many New Yorkers use SoHo as a touchpoint in their schedules at least a few times per week.

I wanted our first location to be convenient, not off some obscure alley down a dimly lit part of Tribeca or Greenwich Village. Being 'in the mix' makes it easier for our guests to stop by on their way to or from some other activity in their day. Our job in every facet of our services is to make your life easier and more enjoyable, to soothe you. Being located in what feels like a haven floating above the busy city is very much in Spencer's style. 

This building is actually the original Tiffany & Co. building before the jeweler moved uptown to its current flagship on 5th Ave. You can really feel something special in the space; it felt right from the second I walked in. 

When designing the space, what inspired the sultry, classic, mid-century modern look?

I worked in close partnership with Charlotte Taylor and EBBA Architects in London. Charlotte is a dear friend, and we constantly send each other images, materials, and textures that we love. The inspiration for the aesthetic at 550 was our favourite Italian hotel meets Japanese Ryokan.

The design is simple, with vintage or bespoke furniture that feels comfortable and chic. I often use the phrasing, 'to feel like your favorite eccentric relative's living room' is what I envisioned from the start. The space should feel new and exciting, like a feast for your eyes in a very satisfying way. However, sitting on the sofa or our chairs, or the floor, you feel taken care of and safe.  

Spencer's Spa ©

As the Founder, what is your favorite aspect of the design or part of the space?

During a build, there are so many small decisions made – thousands in any given week. My favourite aspect of this space was the decision to keep the original floorboards and the audible 'creak' you can hear as you move your body weight through the space. For me, there's a strong sense of comfort and nostalgia in hearing wood make noise. We get a lot of feedback from guests who feel the same way – it's something you are more used to hearing in a home instead of a business. That appeals to me. 

Getting into the services you offer – if you had to pick one service for someone to try first, which one would it be and why?

My team always pokes fun at me for this; if you are new to massage, try our 60 minute foot massage. There is no better foot massage in the city. Seldom are foot massages offered at upscale boutique venues such as ours, and rarely do you have a private room to yourself to enjoy such a service. Most of us are on our feet all day every day and we forget the impact that has on our body. You can sit, close your eyes, and enjoy an hour of 'you time' in what feels like a transformative experience. Obviously, everything on our service menu is excellent and we are constantly making changes to ensure we are as close to perfection as possible. For something unique, a foot massage is where I would start! 

Spencer's Spa ©

Can you talk about your subscription program a bit?

We offer free memberships wherein you are able to subscribe for any of our services. Guests have access to cheaper pricing and they only pay the cost of their selected treatments, once per month. Guests can cancel anytime, and it is a really fantastic way for those who go for a massage or facial at least once a month to receive high quality treatments at very affordable prices. Our 90 minute full body massage is $199 on our monthly subscription - truly one of the best value offers in the city. My philosophy has always been 'more for less'. More service, more quality, more experience, more satisfaction, all for less cost.