Gwyneth Paltrow’s “The Forest Within” Retreat Falls Flat for Some Visitors
Gwyneth Paltrow’s much-anticipated installation, “The Forest Within,” located at Genesis House in Manhattan’s Meatpacking District, is receiving mixed reviews from visitors. Marketed as a “holistic, immersive retreat” designed to provide a “restorative and multi-sensory wellness experience,” the free event has left some fans feeling frustrated and underwhelmed.
Open since last month, the installation aims to guide guests through a journey inspired by Korean heritage, nature, and design. It transforms Genesis House into a meditative forest, featuring natural elements and symbolic representations of Korean wildlife—most notably the Tiger, revered as a guardian spirit in Korean culture.
However, numerous attendees have expressed dissatisfaction with the experience’s brevity. Critics report that the walkthrough lasts a mere five to two minutes, with limited opportunity to pause and appreciate the installations. “Beautiful but literally 2 minutes long," commented one visitor, while another lamented, "This was quite unimpressive after a 40-minute wait."
The stark contrast between the lofty expectations set by promotional materials and the reality of the visit has led many to feel that the experience did not justify the time spent waiting in line. As one online reviewer put it, this is “not something to go out of your way for.”
Despite the mixed reactions, the temporary installation remains open through June 29. Representatives for Paltrow did not immediately respond to requests for comment. As visitors continue to share their thoughts online, the allure of Paltrow’s wellness fantasies clashes with the realities of the immersive experience, leaving some fans disappointed.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image of the presented article.
