It’s no doubt that Newcastle’s CBD has seen a lot of small businesses open their doors over the last few months. From brand-new eateries, boutique shopping stores, and now even a brand-new wellness centre. If you’ve driven down one of the most known streets of Newcastle recently, King St, you might have spotted Zadig Studio; Newcastle’s very first Infrared sauna studio and wellness house.

Opening their doors in early April 2021, Zadig Studio is bringing a whole new concept to the people of Newcastle with their four private sauna rooms housed within a beautifully curated space in the heart of town.  

Brought to us by French-born creative, Priscilla Lamarque, Zadig Studio was formed out of a want for a service that was only to be found in our big cities - Infrared Saunas.

“Initially, I wanted this for myself but I was not able to find this type of welcoming space where I could go in with a friend. Saunas around here are usually an add-on to another service that a venue is offering. Infrared saunas have so many benefits and I wanted infrared therapy to be the main focus point of the business and have the possibility to add this to our daily routine in the same way that we would go to Pilates or to yoga.

“I’ve always been interested in wellness and self-care, especially since moving to Australia. I didn’t think I could make this my project and full-time job but here we are and I could not be more thrilled and grateful for the people who have supported me, especially my partner,” Priscilla said.

The reception area itself is worth talking about, packing quite a punch with a minimalist and refined design. From the curved niche, the circular limestone coffee table, and cactus silk cushions (from Koutchi), to the golden signage, and impactful terrazzo tile; the entire space has been beautifully curated, investing an overwhelming sense of relaxation. You will also be able to purchase a selection of carefully curated wellness brands such as Orchard St, Terratonics, Sofos, or Newcastle-based Ritual Skincare. 

“I am only offering wellness brands and products that I have personally tried on and fell in love with. I strongly believe that what you put into and onto your body affects your everyday life & mood.”

Step behind the curtain and explore the continuation of refined design. Four private and secluded rooms stand before you, all equipped with either a standard infrared sauna (ideal for one or two people) or a large infrared sauna (which can fit up to three people), shower, and soft touches such as the beautiful plants supplied by Plant Life Newcastle.

“I wanted not just something for me, but also the opportunity to share the infrared experience with the community.” 

Working with Port Stephens based design studio, Your Home Designs, and building gurus FIN Design & Construct, Zadig Studio has had the best of the best help out to bring the space to life.  

Now, onto the name – What exactly does Zadig stand for?

“I wanted to bring a little French touch to my business. Zadig is a character from a French Author and Philosopher called Voltaire. He was a revolutionary for his time and was all for telling people to be themselves. Our studio captures the same spirit.”

For those interested in learning more about Infrared Saunas, but not sure where to start, Priscilla will give you all the information you need.  

“Zadig is a modern sanctuary and a safe space for people to come and have an infrared sauna. Infrared therapy has a lot of benefits with the main one being detoxification. It also helps with muscle and injury recovery, skin health, immune system and so much more. I want it to be used from a mental health perspective too. You come in here, unwind and escape from everyday stresses.

“Zadig Studio is for anyone and everyone. We want our guests to come in, shut the curtain and have this little bubble of self-care. It is your private room for 50 minutes.”

So, what exactly is an Infrared Sauna and why should you visit?

“Infrared saunas use light therapy to detoxify our bodies at a cellular level, evoking sweat through a gentle dry heat that sits around 45-65 degrees Celsius. Compared to traditional saunas which involve pouring water over hot stones to create steam, the heat produced in infrared saunas is radiant and dry, making the air easier to breathe.”

Inside the saunas, you can control the temperature with the little keypad, listen to music and podcasts, or even watch your favourite series using the iPad and treat yourself to Chromotherapy; an ancient form of healing using different wavelengths of colours to improve overall health and wellbeing. Each colour possesses its own characteristics and frequency of vibration.

Head into the CBD and feel relaxed, refreshed, and rejuvenated with a visit to Newcastle’s very first Infrared Sauna venue; Zadig Studio.