Allowing for intimacy in spa design

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When it comes to spa design, there is a single, universal theme. Tranquility. Each and every element of a spa’s interior centres on this one, simple ideal.

There are few places where the design of a space so fundamentally impacts the end user’s experience. Certainly, in few commercial areas is the interaction with space so intimate, and the need to summon a specific atmosphere so essential.

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The aim, at its most basic level, is to make users feel totally at ease, noted Gerald Huber, regional director for the GCC at Schletterer Wellness and Spa Design. “The time of purism is definitely over,” he maintained.
 

“Architectural trends are returning to making people feel comfortable and at ease.”

At the spa at Six Senses Hideaway Zighy Bay Oman, the design favours natural materials, which reiterate the resort’s thoughtfully-created concept of laidback, ‘barefoot luxury’. The spa design also follows the lead of the rest of the resort in embracing traditional Omani influences and blending seamlessly into its setting.

“Reflecting a unique and authentic design philosophy in line with an Omani fishing village concept, the spa uses natural and locally-sourced materials where possible. The spa walls and floors feature local stone and wood, and typical Omani flat-beamed roofing is used throughout the 1,500m² space.

“Locally-sourced material, including wood and stone, provides a raw, traditional village feel. Balconies feature sand on the floor to support the natural look and feel,” explained Rochelle Kilgariff, general manager, Six Senses Hideaway Zighy Bay Oman.

The spa’s unique character is established from the outset and reaffirmed in even the most inconspicuous of details. “The entrance to the spa is through a traditional, grotto-style tunnel. Upon entering, the spacious reception area features wall niches, and an array of small windows and low lighting to create a unique, mystic ambience,” she added.

Effective spa design is ultimately about creating experiences. “It is now not just about completing innovation in design, it is about creating an experience through design. Thinking beyond the box and outside of the bottom line has contributed to Wilson Associates’ ongoing success in spa design,” said Lori Campbell Rose, design director at Wilson Associates, the company behind some of Dubai’s most iconic spas, including that at The Palace, Old Town.

In this spa, too, local influences preside, and mimic the Arabic-inspired theme of the rest of the hotel. “The lattice work and arches reveal the Arabic accent and tie in with the cultural ambience. The client was looking for a true Moroccan retreat incorporating western aspects that created a comfortable design to relax and rejuvenate the mind, body and spirit.