Scheduled to open in 2018 and having raised over US$22,000 in crowdfunding, the venture-backed Waterhouse Spa & Social Club will offer members a wellness space in which to relax while forming authentic connections.

Located in the up-and-coming SoMa (South of Market) neighbourhood of San Francisco, the main social space features arched wooden ceilings, skylights and lots of natural light.

Inspiration has come from retreat centres including Esalen and Harbin hot springs, to combine relaxing spa elements with a fun and social community.

With retail partners and a world class spa consultant on board, the landlord is also said to be investing US$100,000 (€93,000, £80,000) in improvements.

The 300-plus members (who will be hand-picked by owner and entrepreneur Seth Quest based on their professional and personal interests and skills) will be able to enjoy spa amenities including a heated Moroccan-inspired garden which has been converted from a secluded back lot, and features soaking tubs, a cold plunge pool and sauna.

Also on site will be a kombucha bar, tea lounge, superfood cafe, sound meditation zone, rooms for massage and acupuncture and flotation pods (or sensory deprivation tanks) with LED lighting and piped music; these contain about 1,200 pounds of Epsom salt which allows the bather to float on the surface.

Membership will cost about US$100 (€93, £80) per month for people ages 27 and under, US$200 (€186, £161) for people older than that, and US$400 (€372, £323) for an "elite membership," which includes consultations with holistic healers.

However, anyone is welcome to approach an employee, who will wear a special necklace, and ask for a massage or acupuncture session.

The Waterhouse gives people "the ability to go to a place and create almost a retreat-like experience — carve out three or four hours and maybe a do a sound meditation, then have some tea, have a great conversation with someone — and come out of it feeling grounded and good," said Quest.