Blending Traditions with the Future: Hürrem Hammam Brings the Turkish Bath Experience to the U.S.

January 21, 2025
Written by Admin TOA
Published in Sport

Miami, FL - The most renowned Turkish bath in the world, which first opened its doors 161 years ago on October 3, 1863, in Brooklyn Heights, New York, has made its grand reentry. Originally launched by Charles Shepard, an expert in hydrotherapy, the bath became a pioneering establishment. By 1867, Shepard opened a second bath on the same street, transforming the original into a women's bath. This setup created a classic hamam experience with separate facilities for men and women at different times of the day. According to research by Malcolm Shifrin, this bath complex garnered significant attention and acclaim upon its opening.
Dr. Shepard was inspired by a Turkish bath that opened in Ireland in 1859 when he integrated the Turkish bath concept into his clinic in the United States, introducing the American audience to this unique bathing tradition.
New York City’s first Turkish bath opened in 1865 at 13 Laight Street, founded by Dr. Martin L. Holbrook, Dr. A. L. Wood, and Dr. Eli P. Miller.

In April 2024, Gökhan Yavuzer, an entrepreneur known for his extensive work in Spa & Wellness projects since 1996 through his company Juno Design and Manufacture, introduced a modern Turkish bath, “Hürrem,” in Miami, Florida. Yavuzer emphasizes that the creation of Hürrem involved an extensive process of preparation, material selection, and concept development, reflecting Juno’s long-standing expertise in Spa & Wellness design and manufacturing.

A SPA & WELLNESS LEGACY
“Spa & Wellness centers worldwide often share similar architectural and product features. With Hürrem, we aimed to craft a broad service range from architecture to presentation, enveloping our guests in the luxuries and emotions of a 'golden age' and offering them a truly distinctive experience,” Yavuzer explains.

Juno, with experience in Spa & Wellness design and construction across 55 countries, is capable of managing projects in seven different countries simultaneously. The company specializes in designing and constructing bespoke Spa & Wellness facilities for chain hotels, ships, and yachts.

Yavuzer adds, “Every detail of this cultural ambassador business has been meticulously crafted by our team, ensuring it accurately represents Turkish bath culture and offers unique experiences to its guests.”
Hürrem spans 20,000 square feet and features a design concept developed by Juno’s design team, including carefully selected colors and forms that will establish its corporate identity. Future goals include expanding this model across the United States through branches and franchise opportunities.

The initial team comprises 45 staff members trained by professionals from Turkiye, and Hürrem is equipped to serve up to 160 guests simultaneously. The facility also includes a special restaurant showcasing exquisite examples of Ottoman and Mediterranean cuisine, embodying its mission as a significant ambassador of Turkish culture in the United States.

THE MEANING BEHIND THE NAME
“The Turkish bath is more than just a component of modern Spa & Wellness; it represents a rich tradition enriched with Eastern characteristics and rituals. It can be seen as a cultural bridge. The name 'Hürrem' is inspired by Hürrem Sultan, the wife of Sultan Suleiman, and our logo reflects their timeless love. The use of gold in our branding references the 'golden age.' While we provide all the amenities of modern Spa & Wellness centers, we also aim to take our guests on a journey to this special historical era,” Yavuzer concludes.

Juno Design and Manufacture has designed and built Spa & Wellness areas for various luxury segments, including cruise ships, chain hotels, super yachts, mixed-use living spaces, and the homes of famous personalities. Notable completed projects include Shangri-La Hotels, Accor Hotels, Hyatt Regency, Intercontinental, Hilton, IHG Kimpton, The Edition, JW Marriott, Merit Royal Diamond Casino, Çırağan Palace Kempinski, and Swissotel.