The Spa is a place intended for regeneration and rest, and is based on the idea that the road to health and well-being passes through the harmony between mind and body. The Spa offers time for oneself, time to relax both physically and mentally in order to re-energise and enjoy a little pleasure… The experience begins at the entrance by virtue of the ambience and atmosphere, which have to awaken the five senses at the sight of a pleasant and relaxing setting, upon hearing soothing music, the fragrances of essential oils, the taste of the drinks ...and finally by virtue of the enjoyable touch of the masseuse’s expert hand. The Spa is a place where each detail is important: the whole environment contributes to relaxing, unwinding and instilling peace through the choice of the materials used, the colours, etc. As well as the materials, light also plays an important role. In contrast to Spas that overlook beautiful landscapes, Day Spas have to use the subtleties of lighting to create a favourable universe for their care treatments.

How should the materials be chosen?
The materials used in the setting up of a Spa, the lighting, the coverings, etc. should create an environment that stimulates the senses and brightens the spirits; textures that invite one to touch, odours that challenge the sense of smell. All the design aspects should contribute to the overall experience and hence to the success of the Spa.
The materials should not only be attractive but must also meet several criteria according on the zones of use. For this reason, one finds rust-resistant, damp-resistant and non-slip materials in wet zones. In dry zones, the palette is larger and can range from wood through to paint. In both cases, the materials must be easy to maintain and must also be durable.
The quality of a particular material, as well as its physical properties, is data that is included in the creation process because its choice determines the future appearance of the Spa being created and its longevity.
The integration of natural elements such as water, stone etc. is intriguing for guests when they can enjoy their surroundings whilst receiving treatment.

“The materials should not only be attractive but must also meet several criteria
according to the zones of use”

To read the whole article, please order EMOTION SPA Magazine n°15
Summer Edition 2008

To read :

> DESIGN AND MOODS, the new Spa materials
> The Spa of the Future
> Meeting with Michael QUINN, HYDROTHERM Manager Director
> Andrée PUTMAN, Style for the good of beauty and wellness
> Carlos OTT, architect unlimited
> Madrid : Hotel Puerta América. A unique hotel that invites you to zen
> a space to Dream
> Atollis, sensory space