RECESS thermal space — sauna, cold plunge, and lounge in Griffintown, Montreal

At RECESS, we are redefining wellness by creating a space where individuals can reconnect with themselves, each other, and their health.

Our thermal station offers a unique blend of sauna, cold plunges, meditation, and breathwork designed to optimize physical and mental well-being. Inspired by the humble traditions of sauna culture, we are dedicated to making wellness an accessible, inclusive, and social experience for urban dwellers, offering a gathering place to relax, recharge, and build meaningful connections.

Close-up of effervescent bubbles rising in a clear liquid

A modern serene spa with a tranquil indoor pool

A person wearing glasses and a dark top sits confidently

Two people in brown swimsuits sit closely together against a dark background

A person stands by the rocky seaside under a clear blue sky

Smiling people wearing RECESS shirts pose together indoors

A person relaxes in a round black outdoor hot tub on a rooftop

A person holds a thermometer submerged in water filled with ice

A person stands next to an outdoor ice bath filled with ice

Four people relax in a spacious wooden sauna on curved benches

Lead with kindness

Our Story

From technology and aesthetics to thermal rituals—RECESS began with a shared desire to create something deeply human.

Adam and Marilyne form a duo where contrast becomes harmony.

Adam leads with intention, thoughtfulness, and a deep understanding of what moves people. Marilyne brings bold vision, intuitive creativity, and the energy to bring ideas to life.

Together, they share a belief in crafting experiences that make people feel alive, supported, and truly connected—to themselves and to one another.

Adam Simms spent the last two decades building high-growth tech companies, between Montreal and New York he has helped scale companies like Lightspeed, Trello, and Atlassian. A lifelong lover of the arts and mindful living, Adam eventually felt the need to shift—from fast-paced innovation to something slower, more grounded. Upon returning to Québec, he discovered contrast therapy. The ritual of moving between heat, cold, and rest had an immediate and lasting impact—physically, mentally, emotionally. It wasn't just wellness. It was art. It was presence. And it sparked an idea:

What if we brought this to the city?

Marilyne Gagné is an entrepreneur at heart, deeply driven by connection, empowerment, and care. Helping people feel better has always been her life mission. In 2024, after founding and leading Dermapure Clinics—a network of 75 premium clinics across Canada—she had just closed a significant chapter of her journey. Ready to make space for something new, Adam's vision instantly resonated with her. Following a 24-hour trip to New York, where they explored emerging wellness clubs, she knew she could help bring this concept to life.

With a shared vision for RECESS: a modern thermal station rooted in tradition, backed by science, and designed for the way we live now. More than just a wellness concept, it is a community space. They both knew they wanted to build this project together.

A couple of months later, two strategic partners came on board: Dr. Marc-Antoine Rivard as Medical Director and Chloé Daigle as Marketing Associate.

All passionately committed to bringing this concept to life—you'll surely run into them at RECESS!