Shelter by ReFormd review: A moody, modern hideout for cold plunge lovers

Shelter by ReFormd might just turn you into a cold plunge addict! I tested the pools, sauna, and everything in between.

Dear CBD folks who have made cold plunges their personality traits, have you met Shelter by ReFormd? Consider this your introduction to Singapore’s latest recovery sanctuary. Located at One Raffles Link – a short distance from City Hall and Esplanade MRT stations – Shelter is designed as a pitstop for professionals in the area to take a mindful break before, during, or after work.

As someone who recently discovered the wonders of ice baths in Singapore, I decided to pop by the new space and see if a dip between boiling and Arctic temperatures could undo the psychic damage of back-to-back meetings.

Shelter by ReFormd: Details at a glance

Best for: Cold plunges with a side of moody aesthetics
Insider tip: Bring your own swimwear if you’re squeamish, but honestly, the provided wet attire is a lifesaver
How much: Two-week membership at $130; credit packs from $450
Opening hours: Daily, 7am to 10pm
Address: Shelter by ReFormd, #01-01, 1 Raffles Link, Singapore 039393

Step inside Shelter and catch the vibes

Getting to Shelter is easy. I went via Citylink Mall, which required walking down that long stretch (you know the one) before taking the escalator past Starbucks. Turn right and keep your eyes peeled for the sign pointing to the wellness club. The space is hard to miss: massive letters across the glass walls paired with a tulip motif that feels very “I have my life together, thanks.”

The reception area features grey concrete and wooden furniture – basically the industry standard for contrast-therapy spaces. A familiar fragrance floated in the air, offering a warm welcome to those “seeking shelter.” That aroma turned out to be from Aesop; the cosmetic brand has partnered with Shelter to supply the room scent and shower amenities.

One thing I genuinely appreciate? Wet attire is provided. This makes sense for working professionals who are absolutely not carrying swimwear at all times. Sure, the idea of communal swimwear might give you the ick, but honestly, the convenience wins.

Hot zones that melt your stress

Entering the pool area is like watching the mood settings change IRL. It’s darker, moodier, and a whole lot more dramatic: dim lights, dark tiles, and warm wood. The glass bricks are a stroke of design genius, diffusing sunlight into the space like a soft-focus beauty filter. It’s giving “modern Batcave,” and I support it wholeheartedly.

Matte metallic plates along the walls explain the benefits of the pools and sauna, plus recommended contrast-therapy routines. I beelined to the warm soak pool, which fits up to 18 people comfortably. A few minutes in, I felt my fatigue, resentment, and pent-up meeting trauma melting away.

The dry sauna sits at the far end and immediately catches your eye. Think cedar-lined cocoon with a neon “A Place For Your Head” sign at the back. It’s a direct invitation to dump your worries and stew in peace. I left feeling light, buzzy, and convinced I’d shed half my stress via sweat.

Health & Wellbeing

Cold plunges in Singapore for a rejuvenating dip

Which cold pool hits just right?

Shelter’s pièce de résistance is the trio of cold plunge pools arranged side by side. Temperatures go from 3ºC to 10ºC, so channel your inner Goldilocks and test them all to see which one makes you feel less like you’re auditioning for Frozen 3.

Naturally, I tried all three and immediately regretted my life choices. I attempted a trick I picked up at Hideaway at New Bahru, but all it did was make me look like I was floating through the Dead Sea in slow motion. That said, I survived a couple of rounds in each pool – almost a minute each – before retreating to shiver dramatically in the rest area.

My tip for newbies: Start with the 7ºC to 10ºC pool. Submerge for about 30 seconds (hands out, unless you’re into suffering), then hop out, breathe, and repeat. Think of it as training mode.

Is it worth it? (Spoiler: I’m lowkey obsessed)

There’s no time limit here, so you can stay as long as you like. I lingered for almost two hours, cycling between the hot, cold, and sauna facilities before finishing with a final plunge because I’m committed to the bit. A few people trickled in and out throughout my visit, reinforcing the club’s mission of being a reliable stop for anyone needing a reset.

I left Shelter feeling energised, ready to take on the rest of my day and the work week. Was I tempted to return? Absolutely. The pricing and provided attire are major pluses. Am I entering my cold plunge era? Signs point to yes. Who even is she anymore?

P.S. A little bee told me the ReFormd Group is opening the second Shelter outlet in Tiong Bahru. Catch me (cold) plunging my way across the island soon.

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