After teasing the launch at the beginning of the year, of the neuroscience-backed Sleep Lab at Equinox Hotel New York is now officially open for snoozing. Olivia Palamountain reports

Equinox Hotel New York has unveiled what it claims is the world's first science-backed sleep experience, created in collaboration with renowned neuroscientist and bestselling author Dr. Matthew Walker.

Launched on July 8, the Sleep Lab represents a significant departure from traditional sleep tourism offerings. In this sleep-optimised experiment, every element from lighting to sound to temperature is optimised by evidence-based neuroscience to improve performance, recovery, and longevity.

The Sleep Lab comprises four exclusive guest rooms now available for booking. Rates start at US$1,700 per night with a minimum two-night stay required. 

The initiative marks the first time a hotel brand has partnered with Dr. Walker, professor of neuroscience at UC Berkeley and author of the bestseller Why We Sleep, to translate sleep science into a real-world guest experience. The Sleep Lab positions itself as transforming "sleep into a precision science" rather than simply offering comfortable accommodation.

The partnership builds on Equinox Hotels' existing wellness offerings, which focus on movement, nutrition, regeneration and community. The group's properties already feature AM and PM rituals designed to optimise guests' circadian rhythms, alongside sleep-focused spa treatments and scientifically-vetted rooms with recovery-focused minibar offerings."At Equinox Hotels, we understand that sleep isn't just a luxury—it's essential to living a high-performance life. This partnership with Dr Walker extends our leadership in the industry," says Chris Norton, CEO of Equinox Hotels.

The experience features several cutting-edge elements designed to enhance sleep quality. Adaptive mattress technology provides personalised temperature control, whilst automated systems adjust lighting, temperature and sound according to guests' circadian rhythms.

The rooms incorporate neuroscience-backed rituals including guided breathwork and specially designed soundscapes. Additional amenities include contrast therapy showers featuring both steam rooms and ice showers, along with travel-tested sleep tools.

The hotel has implemented dual research methodologies to track sleep quality and outcomes, allowing for data-driven improvements to the guest experience.

Beyond The Sleep Lab, Equinox Hotels plans to integrate cutting-edge sleep technologies into future room designs and will launch a new digital jet lag reset programme providing personalised strategies for guests arriving at and departing from properties.Dr. Walker, whose TED Talk Sleep is Your Superpower has garnered more than 20 million views. "Sleep is the foundation for everything we do," says Dr Walker. "I'm thrilled to partner with Equinox Hotels to develop innovative sleep solutions that will revolutionise the guest experience in hospitality and empower travellers to achieve their full potential."