Bodyline Building Hosts New Home For Sydney Gay Sauna 357
Image: Image: 357 Sydney
Sydney’s iconic gay sauna, 357, is undergoing a significant transition, with its longtime owners, Ty Dovans and Luke Frappell, revealing plans for its future at the Bodyline building.
However rest assured 357 will still be in operation.
357 makes the move to Bodyline
Gay sauna 357, which recently marked its 22nd anniversary, announced its imminent closure at its current location on Sussex Street, citing redevelopment plans that will see the building transformed into an 18-storey hotel.
In a statement shared on Facebook, Owners Luke and Ty expressed gratitude to patrons for their years of support while informing them of the impending closure.
“We opened 26/12/01 and now it’s time to close,” they wrote. “Our beautiful building is becoming an 18-storey hotel.”
With the closing date set to be announced imminently, the owners encouraged visitors to make the most of their final visits to the current venue.
However, they assured patrons that 357 would not disappear entirely, revealing plans for a new location in the heart of Sydney’s CBD.
“Sauna X by 357”
While the new sauna is still in the works and some time away from opening, Luke and Ty disclosed that the venue’s manager, Glenn McNamara, would be overseeing the transition.
“Sauna X by 357” is set to take up residence at 10 Taylor Street in Darlinghurst, the former home of another well-known sex-on-premises venue, Bodyline.
Amidst speculation about the fate of Bodyline, which had recently displayed a sign indicating temporary closure and impending reopening under new ownership, Luke and Ty confirmed their acquisition of the property.
“357 has bought what used to be Bodyline,” they affirmed.
The announcement of “X by 357” at its new location marks an exciting chapter for the establishment and its loyal clientele.
357 to remain unchanged
Luke and Ty assured patrons that the essence of 357 would remain unchanged, promising the same staff, parties, and welcoming atmosphere that defined the original venue.
As the transition unfolds, both saunas are expected to operate concurrently, offering patrons a seamless transition between locations. Luke and Ty expressed gratitude for the unwavering support of the community throughout this period of change, emphasizing the importance of maintaining 357’s legacy of inclusivity and acceptance.
With anticipation building for the opening of “X by 357” at its new address, patrons can look forward to a continuation of the vibrant and welcoming atmosphere that has made 357 a beloved fixture of Sydney’s LGBTQ+ community for over two decades.
Congratulations on the take over of the old Bodyline🎈. Sad to see the name go, but I’m sure sauna X will carry on with success.
As one of the original founders of Bodyline I’m glad to see it is now being run by gay men. Gay owned and operated is very important.
Hope to come say hi in the near future. Once again, thank you for serving our community.
So when is the old venue closing,
When is the new venue opening.
sorry Jake not everyone lives around Oxford St.
Lots of guys call in during their lunch break but wont be able to in Oxford St .
Also lots of guys call in after work before heading home and lots of guys who are Bi etc may not want to be seen in the Oxford St area.
Thats why it was a success.
Anyway lets see if it is a success for them.
Sorry Jake I don’t agree. I think variety and options are a good thing. If someone doesn’t like what X by 357 is they can go to the other one or to Sydney Sauna. If they can operate both and provide something different at both then it’ll attract more and different people. Having one in the CBD will be easier for those wanting a quick lunchtime relief or for visitors who are staying in accommodation nearby. Also, on a weekend the saunas near Oxford Street are so busy. Perhaps one being further away will be a little quieter which some patrons prefer.
I don’t think it’s necessary to have a Sauna in the heart of Sydney’s CBD. Just use the Bodyline venue and market that as the new 357 permanently. Cheaper to own and operate, prime location closer to Oxford street, discreet alley way entrance for those discreet men away from large public spaces. NO ID scanner compared to other Suana’s and so on. Sydney does not need multiple Sauna’s. Two is more than enough. ☺️