DESIGN DISSERTATION

ON

“THE SPA”

SUBMITTED

IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF THE REQUIREMENTS FO THE DEGREE OF

M.SC. IN INTERIOR DESIGN

OF

NAFDI SCHOOL OF INTERIOR DESIGN, MUMBAI

SUBMITTED BY

VARSHA KUMARI
ENROLLMENT NO. 22PSID4A-2

(2021-2023)

UNDER THE GUIDANCE OF

NAFDI
SCHOOL OF INTERIOR DESIGN

CHILDREN WELFARE CENTER, MARVE ROAD, OPPOSITE HDFC BANK,

BEHIND GARDEN COURT RESTAURANT, ORLEM, MALAD WEST, MUMBAI,
MAHARASHTRA 400064

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 CERTIFICATE

THIS IS TO CERTIFY THAT VARSHA KUMARI HAS SUCCESFULLY COMPLETED

HER DESIGN DISSERTATION “SPA” UNDER THE GUIDANCE OF PROF.
PRASANNA GHAG.

THE DISSERTATION IS UNDER TAKEN AS A PART OF ACADEMIC STUDY BASED

ON THE CURRICULAR FOR MASTERS IN INTERIOR DESIGN COURSE
CONDUCTED BY NAFDI SCHOOL OF INTERIOR DESIGN MUMBAI IN THE
ACADEMIC YEAR 2021-2023.

ID. PRASANNA GHAG

PROFESSOR
NAFDI SCHOOL OF INTERIOR DESIGN

EXTERNAL JUROR

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 Project Report on

SPA

Submitted By

Varsha Kumari

Roll No. 02

MSC IN INTERIOR DESIGN

(2021-2023)

Project Guide

ID. Prasanna Ghag

NAFDI School of Interior Design

Children Welfare Center, Marve Road, Opposite HDFC Bank, Behind Garden Court
Restaurant, Orlem, Malad West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400064

3
 DECLARATION

I declare that this written submission represents my ideas in my own words and were other’s
ideas or words have been included, I have adequately edited and referenced original sources.
I also declare that I have adhered to all the principles of academic honesty and integrity and
have not misrepresented or fabricated or falsified any Idea/data/fact/source in my
submissions. I understand that any violation of the above will be caused for disciplinary
action by the institute and can also evoke penal action from the source which have thus not
been properly edited or from whom proper permission has not been taken when needed.

____________
SIGNATURE

NAME: VARSHA KUMARI

ROLL NO: 22PSID4A-2

DATE: 25-03-2023

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 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

This dissertation would not be possible without the support of many people. I would like to
thank the college firstly for the opportunity to do this project and the support and motivation
from all the faculty members. I would like to thank ID. Prasanna Ghag for his time and
guidance throughout this dissertation project.

I would like to thank the college for the use of its extensive library which helped in this
project.

Thanks to all who helped me with my site visits.

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 ABSTRACT
Spas have been around a surprisingly long time. But they are relatively misunderstood for
their role. Where did spas come from, and are they really what we want? The thesis tries to
understand the history and changes in spa layout and evolution of spa design, to find out best
design solution. Understanding the factors affecting the spa environment will be the main
objective thesis. The application of those factors in design will govern the design
development from my thesis project which is “SPA DESIGN”.

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 PROLOGUE

This is a thesis proposal on designing a Spa. This covers design problems related to spa, from
program formulation, site selection, case studies, literature reviews, research, and design. The
project will try to incorporate all the necessary facilities and amenities and will be the largest
spa in the country.
With a change of time, the meaning of spa has changed and now it has been a commercial
form of making money. Spa, proposed here, is also a commercial spa, which provides
relaxation to both internal as well as external. The spa will be in urban fringe, not very far
from the core city so as it could serve urban people well and be their holiday destination. The
good spa is that which plunge people, gives feelings of intimacy.
This spa will perform multifunction, as it will have Day Bed, Experience Showers, Finishing
Studio, Gym, Hammam, Ice Fountain, Lap Pool, Rasul, Relaxation Bed, Relaxation Lounger,
Relaxation Room, Sauna, Sleep Pod, Spa Café, Steam Room, Studio, Thermal Suite, VIP
Suite and Vitality Pool etc.
If we see the present scenario, we cannot find all these activities in single spa, thus, it is
important to know the management of all these activities and, we cannot take this sort of spa
more far from urban fringe as target group is urban dwellers too.
The spa will attempt to integrate the socio-cultural aspect of Indian society with
contemporary spatial demand of spa and create harmony between them, together harmonizing
it with site, and surrounding to fit it in context.
One most important thing is that the spa will be focusing more on its services which are
provided through proper design of spaces and at the same time, it will be concerning on the
sustainability in design, of which the world is thirsty.
I chose this topic because nowadays people are so busy with their daily work and can’t focus
on their health. There's no better place to relax ourselves than a spa. Visiting a spa, is a great
way to relax and increase wellness by experiencing the many different treatment options
available. Spa therapy provides physical, mental, and spiritual healing crucial in maintaining
a healthy lifestyle and promoting longevity.
The lifestyle of the urban people is greatly influenced by their conduct. Hence the need for a
spa has become imperative. It is not just a luxury; This is a necessity so I want to build
something that is affordable and easily accessible and accessible at the same time and spa
treatments offer the possibility to completely relax, both physically and mentally. Sitting in a
hot tub, for example, can boost your mood and relieve tension in the body while it will make
them feel fully invigorated.
Spa treatments are developed in the world and all treatments work in different ways or in
conjunction with the 5 elements of nature - Earth (Pritvi), Water (Jala), Fire (Tejas), Wind
(Vayu) and Space (Akasha). The human body is dominated by one of these elements in
nature and it is very important to strike a balance.

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 SEMANTICS

Spa is a business that provides a variety of services for the purpose of improving health,
beauty, and relaxation through personal care treatments such as massages and facials.
'Spa' is an acronym of the Latin phrase 'Salus per Aquam', meaning 'health from water'. - 'Spa'
is named after the Belgian village, Spa, where hot mineral springs were used by Roman
soldiers to treat aching muscles and wounds from a battle.
Spas offer various treatments, including massage therapy, hydrotherapy, facials, manicures,
foot therapy and pedicures, body wraps, aromatherapy, and acupuncture. Many spas even
offer meditation, yoga, and Pilates. Each of these various therapy options helps your body to
relax and release built-up stress and tension.
Since medieval times, illnesses caused by iron deficiency were treated by drinking chalybeate
(iron-bearing) spring water (in 1326, the iron-master Collin le Loup claimed a cure, when the
spring was called Espa, a Walloon word for "fountain".
In 16th-century England, the old Roman ideas of medicinal bathing were revived at towns
like Bath (not the source of the word bath), and in 1596 William Slingsby who had been to
the Belgian town (which he called Spaw) discovered a chalybeate spring in Yorkshire. He
built an enclosed well at what became known as Harrogate, the first resort in England for
drinking medicinal waters, then in 1596 Dr. Timothy Bright after discovering a second well
called the resort The English Spaw, beginning the use of the word Spa as a generic
description.
It is commonly claimed, in a commercial context, that the word is an acronym of various
Latin phrases, such as salus per aquam or sanitas per aquam, meaning "health through water".
This is very unlikely: the derivation does not appear before the early 21st century and is
probably a backronym as there is no evidence of acronyms passing into the language before
the 20th century; nor does it match the known Roman name for the location.

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INDEX
Sr. No. Table of Content Page No.
1. Chapter 1. Introduction
1.1 Objectives 10
1.2 Aims 10
1.3 Purpose of Thesis 10
2. Chapter 2. Research
2.1 History of Spa 12
2.2 Typology 13
2.3 Reasons to go to the spa 16
2.4 Data Collection 17
2.5 Components of a Spa facility 21

3. Chapter 3. Planning of a Spa

3.1 Spa Design Principals 27
3.2 Spa Components 30
4. Chapter 4. Elements of spa that affect spa guests’ perception
& spatial experience
4.1 Design Criteria Effecting on Spa Experience 37
5. Chapter 5. Case Studies 41
6. Chapter 6. Survey 64
7. Chapter 7. Site Analysis
7.1 Location 68
7.2 Site Plan 68
7.3 Civil Alteration Layout 69
7.4 Zoning Layout 69
7.5 Floor Plan 70
8. Design Brief 71
9. Conclusion 72
10. Bibliography 73

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Chapter 1. INTRODUCTION
Today it is fair to say that spas are at the forefront of the holistic health and wellness
movement. People everywhere are discovering that the most effective approach to health is
maintaining a balanced body and lifestyle – something spas are experts in assisting with.
They are home to some of the latest pioneering treatments and research into nutrition,
mindfulness, and wellbeing. Offering everything from perfectly tailored treatments during
refreshing spa breaks to intensive boot camps educating people across a range of topics.
However, the modern-day spa has deep roots, having grown from some of the most long-
standing health practices in the world.
1.1 Objectives:
• Provide a relaxing environment for the spa through varieties of facilities and
functions.
• Provide a space where people can go to relax their body and their mind.
• Create an interactive ground for locals and visitors so that there may be interchange of
ideas and cultural demonstration.
• Make analytical study of the functional requirements of spa and implement efficient
design to carry out the functions smoothly.
• The aim is to attain unique spa design with all the knowledge and skills that is learned
throughout 1 year of learning. The final design should be free from all the design
problems and should be outstanding from all the prevalent spa in INDIA.
1.2 Aims:
• Designing a comfortable space with a residential not institutional feel.
• Establishing a simple yet effective zone keying system and proper "signage" system
for smooth traffic flow.
• Designing a spa that has as many facilities as possible and all treatment areas are as
soundproofed as possible.
• It will cater to normal people, people with different types of ailments and mental
issues.
• To ground the design of the spa as close to the elements of nature. Splashes of colours
enliven our spirits; Luxurious texture incorporates our touch; Fragrance calms our
sense of smell. All aspects of the design contribute to the overall experience and
ultimately the success of a spa.
1.3 Purpose of thesis:
Today, people especially those living in metropolitan areas face a large amount of stress in
their daily lives. As a result, the state of self-care and wellness is becoming more important
by the day.
The main goal of wellness is to protect, promote and maintain health and well-being and to
avoid illness, disability, and death. In this material, the role of spa in human life is defined as
a medium that provides healing activities, which were defined as pampering activities in

10
recent times. Referring to this appreciation, spa spaces as collaborator to maintain these
approaches play an important role for wellness.
The relationship between human and water starts from the mother's womb, it remains in
many forms. People's interest in water depends on various beliefs and needs such as desire
for cleanliness, religious and belief in the healing properties of water. People may bathe in
various forms and locations, for example in a bathtub, shower, or puddle of water.
Throughout history, the practice of bathing, as well as attitudes towards bathing, have varied
according to different rules, beliefs, and politics. This resulted in the rise of private and public
bathing places.
In this dissertation, the spa space and experience in the context of personal and public
bathing; Furthermore, the environmental elements that influence these experiences are
examined and emphasized through the aspect of the designer.

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Chapter 2. RESEARCH

2.1 History of spa:

The history of the spa goes right back to prehistoric times. The word “spa” denotes a type of
water treatment, also known as balneotherapy. Many cultures across the world have
recognised a kind of power and health benefits in certain types of mineral water and have
therefore developed bathing practices and techniques intended to harness the magic of water.
Historians believe that Greeks used variety of social bathing in 500 BC including hot air
baths known as 'laconica' for medicinal purposes. In Rome Emperors designed and created
several 'thermae' (a large-scale spa) so that the benefit of the curative features of hot water
can be availed by common people. Gradually this became popular throughout the world and
they were built across the Roman Empire, from Africa to England. People come to these
places for treatment from various parts of the world which developed it into a medical
profession. The increase in demand from visitors helped in emergence of several well-
equipped complexes which offered places to stay, entertainment facilities and various types
of baths. Greeks built bathing facilities by these pools and enjoyed their healing powers. In
gratitude for the magic of water, visitors left offerings to the gods when they were healed at
these sites.
These Greek practices were adopted and modified by the Romans and remained popular, but
when Rome fell, the Catholic church discouraged public baths, thinking them an unclean and
un-Christian activity. Meanwhile in the East, Muslims adopted Roman bathing practices and
improved them. The Turkish Baths and Arabic Hammams developed a sophisticated
therapeutic use of water which was brought to Europe when Arabs invaded Spain in the
medieval era. The largest Arabic baths in the world outside an Islamic country are those
located in the Spanish city of Jaén, which date back to the 12th century.
Throughout the centuries the spa industry continued to gain popularity and emerged as a
sophisticated treatment of diseases. The present generation Spa therapies keep undergoing
several reforms so that they can become more effective and efficient for the end users. Today
Spa has highly developed into a profession that takes proper care of the individuals after
proper diagnosis of the physical and mental disharmony. Increasing focus on health and
wellness popularizes this treatment throughout the world.
The wellness and spa industry in India blends age-old therapeutic treatments of yore, having
its roots in Ayurveda, along with super-luxury ambience of modern-day spa. The concept of
Visiting luxury spas for a quick therapy or relaxation is catching up, amongst foreign and
Indian residents alike, leading to the growth of day spas as well. Although these quick
therapy spas which are usually located in various established malls and prominent locations
make up of nearly 50% of the rejuvenation and spa market in India, hotels and resort spas
account for the other half, and are growing rapidly to reach a larger consumer base.

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2.2 Typology:
2.2.1 Destination Spa:
Destination spas are a fancy establishment of spas that are found in quite specific locations
and quite influential. These are known as luxury spas and they focus on rich and luxury spa
experience for their customers. The spa is designed in such a way that the ambience gives us
relaxation and rejuvenation. Its aim is to introduce healthy lifestyle in you thereby these spas
along with central spa availability also offer exercise sessions, yoga, mental and physical
health sessions and explore many adventurous activities.

2.2.2 Resort Spa:

Resort and hotel spas are a new trend these days. As the trend picture shows, the high-class
society and well-off personalities among us prefer relaxing at resorts. Beautiful scenery with
a wonderful nature around us is a perfect place to unwind our stress and enjoy our holidays or
take a break from our everyday routine.

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2.2.3 Day Spas:
These are spas that are meant to offer all the basic spa services like massages, facial or scrub
and they come in a nominal price tag. Mostly these types of spas are located right in the city
centres, where citizens may easily reach and access to the spa facilities, even for shorter
durations of time in-between their daily activities and routines.

2.2.4 Mineral spring spa:

These spas are known for providing the customers with the right on site base of natural
components, seawater or heat included in hydrotherapy therapies they offer. These spas are
introduced in locations which are known to have excess natural resources and are packed
with the minerals used in spas. This is the spa that was famous in yesteryears which is the
major reasons spas became the trend of the day. There are several yesteryear spas that are set
up and functioning in various locations across the world.

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2.2.5 Club Spas:
Club spas are usually seen in fitness centres and their main concentration is on fitness. Apart
from that these spas provide expert monitored spa services on a regular spa day for
customers. However, these spas can be used only based on the club membership as these spas
are attached to clubs. But many club spas also welcome customers who non-club members
with a different price range for the services offered.

2.2.6. Medical spas:

A medical spa is a spa that helps people who have a medical condition and mental discomfort
as it blends both medical treatment and spa relaxation in one go. These spa centres give
complete relaxation for patients suffering from various illness and recovering from different
surgeries. Certain treatments offered in these spas are Botox, laser treatments, intense pulsed
light therapies and hair removal using a laser, photo facials, chemical peeling, and skin
tightening treatment and cellulite treatments and many more.

15
2.3 Reasons to go the Spa:
• Bonding Session: Just like the pub or the park, spas are now widely seen as a place
one can hang out. More people are visiting spas in groups. People tend to use that as a
motivating factor to visit the spa regularly. Friends and family usually make the
sessions lively. It offers the perfect avenue for you to interact while receiving your
treatment.

• Detox: Detoxification is getting rid of the unhealthy and toxic substances from the
body. There is no better place to do that than a spa specializing in this field. Not only
will your body be free of unwanted substances, but you can lose weight. During
detoxification, the body will convert the fat reserves to energy. While fats are getting
broken down, toxins are released into the bloodstream, and the excretory system will
do its job.

• Improve Confidence and Self Esteem: People who visit the spa for treatments are
generally happy. This happiness can be equated to positive energy and feel. The feel-
good factor can be easily transferred to the people around and changing how you
approach things significantly. It will give more zeal when talking and addressing
issues to people. That is why a lot of people tend to visit the spa as a morning ritual.

• Helps Lower Your Blood Pressure: Having a massage session will calm the
sympathetic nervous system that is responsible for raising blood pressure. High blood
pressure is risky because it leads to heart disease. The hot water in a spa bath and a
massage will lower your blood pressure while increasing your heart rate. It will make
the circulatory system work excellently well, thus by far improving your
cardiovascular wellness.

• Reduces Pain: Spas are very common with visitors looking to get rid of back pains
and the general protection of their spine. A massage works wonders in reducing or
removing such pain, consider it a therapy session. The increased flow of blood
throughout the body helps in getting rid of stiffness, aches, muscle tension, and pain.
Tissue elasticity will also make you more flexible as an added benefit. Works well
with athletes who are recovering from an injury and people who have arthritis.

• Reduces Stress: There is an alarming rate of increase in people suffering from mental
health issues. Having a regular visit to the spa will ensure you are not part of this
statistic. Not only will your spa treatment clear your mind during and after it, but it
will also ease your sleeping patterns at night. Sleep is essential in reducing stress
towards a better mental health record. Reducing stress can still be achieved due to the
celebrity treatment you get at the spa and the relaxing feeling. It is relatively healthy
for a man to feel good and appreciated whenever they are accorded first class service.
This is the norm while getting a spa treatment.
• Weight Reduction: A spa offers a variety of treatments that will enable you to lose
weight. A slimming body wrap will come in handy to achieve weight loss. You will

16
 be covered in a heated blanket after getting bandaged in mineral socked clothes. Cool
sculpting can also be done to facilitate weight loss. It’s the process of freezing fat
cells beneath your skin. It is recommended because you get to choose the specific area
you want to cut the fat.

• Meditation: A spa treatment provides one of the best ways to enjoy your peace of
mind and meditate. Meditation increases one’s happiness and improves your
concentration by a mile. Many spas offer yoga classes. It is proven that yoga is one of
the best ways to meditate. Yoga will come as an added advantage because your
flexibility and fitness will massively improve and be at par with your meditation skill.
A clear mind enhances better decision making.

• Have Healthy Skin: Spas are best known for the numerous skin treatment options that
they offer. Exfoliation is one of the most common skin treatment therapies. Smoother
skin is achieved by extracting dead skin and rough cells. This is how softer and
glowing skin comes about. The dead cells usually prevent the skin from being
smooth. Organic facials can really improve your skin tone. Other forms of making the
skin better include treatments like extractions, which is where blemishes are manually
removed from the surface.

• Relax: Getting a spa treatment might be the perfect way to relax after a long day
mulled by activities. You can make a spa your spot for recharging to face new
challenges that the day brings. A spa offers a completely different environment,
almost replicating another world. You can use the lack of distraction as an excellent
way to relax both your body and mind. This is one of the main reasons why people
visit spas for treatment.

2.4 Data Collection:

2.4.1 Spa Uses & Users:
• A massage session is a break from your job, your family, friends to slow down and
de-stress.

• A massage improves blood circulation, which delivers oxygen and nutrients to the
cells.

• Massage stimulates the lymphatic system, which carries away the body’s waste
products.

• It has been proved that massage releases a hormone called Serotonin that enhances the
body and mind’s “feel good” state. When you receive a spa service, your mind, body
and soul are in harmony.

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 • Professional athletes and fitness freaks, along with physical pampering, experience
great relief in easing muscle tensions and cramps through trained therapists and relax
every part of their body through deep tissue massages.

• Pre-natal and post-natal benefits for women is one of the most important factors for
experiencing a massage.

• Massage therapy can help with pain management in chronic conditions such as
arthritis, sciatica and muscle spasms.

• By indulging in body contouring services at a spa, you can keep the extra pounds off
and keep your body in shape and beautiful.

• Body polishes gently exfoliate your skin, promoting cellular renovation, refining
pores and gives your skin uniform relief.

• Water treatments feed the soul. Like life, water is yin and yang; when your body is
submerged in water you find true balance, as water provides the equilibrium.

• Heat treatments in the form of either warm, dry air or warm, moist air heat the body to
stimulate blood circulation, initiating the purifying process.

• Therapeutic muds in either 'rasuls' or 'serial' chambers, exfoliate dead skin cells,
eliminate toxins, and increase circulation.

• Body wraps are exceptionally beneficial as a quick way to remineralise the body,
replenish it with nutrients and elements lost daily, thus boosting moisture in your skin,
helping to rejuvenate and relax you.

• In contrast to heat treatments, cold water or ice applied to the body have been proven
to stimulate the circulatory, lymphatic, and immune system.

• Most spas today have on call experts who give nutritional advise in direct sync with
one’s lifestyles.

2.4.2 Measures in treatments:

• Risk of infection: Infection is a real risk in the spa industry. While many spas run a
nice clean shop and take proper safety precautions, unfortunately not all spas live up
to those standards. Plus, even in the most shipshape spas, conditions are perfect for
bacteria and fungi to flourish -- it requires constant staying alert to keep things clean.
While at a spa, keep a constant eye out for signs of a dedicated attention to
cleanliness, and it's also good to see certifications and credentials hanging up for
display.

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 • Serious medical conditions: Serious, along with people who have colds or other
respiratory issues, need to think twice before popping into the sauna. Since all that dry
heat can make breathing difficult, steam rooms are often a much better option.
Diabetics need to be especially cautious about getting a pedicure -- foot infections can
have serious consequences for people with diabetes, bringing us to the last spa peril
on the next page.

• Dangers for pregnant women: The main danger pregnant women must watch out for
is heat. Anything with the potential to raise their body temperatures above safe levels
-- including saunas, steam rooms, hot tubs and other heat-related treatments -- are all
off limits. Hair bleaches and removal creams, aromatherapy and detox scrubs are
usually considered a bad idea, but gentle facials, simple manicures, and pedicures
(without the accompanying rub if the person isn't trained in reflexology) and warm
baths are all good ways to pamper pregnant women. Just make sure nothing contains
any harsh products or chemicals. The best advice is to find someone with the proper
training and follow his or her instructions.

• Allergies and skin reactions: Oils, lotions and powders can all help enhance a spa
procedure, but occasionally, clients can find allergies or sensitive skin problems
disturbing their treatment. It is important to let spa practitioners know about any
issues you have, as well as any other outstanding health conditions. Chances are good
they can work around the problem, maybe by choosing a replacement product or
altering their techniques to fit your personal needs.

• Rough Handling: It might not qualify as a danger per se, but rough handling can
quickly sour any spa experience. People visit spas to relax, not because they have a
hankering to be used as a human punching bag. If a massage is too vigorous for your
liking, just ask the massage therapist to take it easy. And while some people like to
chat while they are getting spa services, others prefer relaxing in silence.

2.4.3 Types of spa treatment:

• Full-body mud mask: Mud is warmed, applied thickly, and the body wrapped in
plastic or foil for 20 to 30 minutes. A full treatment takes 60 minutes. Fifteen minutes
should be allowed between clients for clean-up and retail selling.

• Herbal body wrap: Linen or muslin sheets are heated and soaked in a machine in
which herbal pouches or oils have been placed. The body is then covered with towels
or rubber sheets, followed by the linen or muslin sheet. Additional sheets and blankets
are laid over and the body allowed to rest for 20 minutes. Wet cloths need to be
constantly placed on the guests’ forehead. Due to the weight of the sheets, technicians
can do no more than four to six wraps a day.

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• Paraffin body wrap: Paraffin wraps generate heat that helps the body perspire, thereby
allowing moisture and previously applied nutrients to be absorbed from the skin
surface into the body. The paraffin may be used alone or in conjunction with mud or
seaweed.

• Full body massage: These range from the basic Swedish massage to sports, deep
tissue, Shiatsu, aromatherapy, and reflexology massages. They are booked for half an
hour or a full hour.

• Full-body facial: Like a facial (hence, the seemingly self-contradictory name), this
treatment involves cleaning, exfoliation, steam, massage, mask, and finishing lotion,
and is booked for 60 to 90 minutes.

• Body tanning / bronzing: Exfoliation is followed by the application of a tanning

emulsion.

• Water therapy: Hydrotherapy has become the term for treatments using water for
professional purposes. Water has been used as a treatment for various diseases since
the times of the ancient Greeks.

• Spot treatment: Spot treatments work on a specific part of the body. They include spa
manicures and pedicures; hand and foot treatments; scalp treatments; cellulite, anti-
stress, and bust-firming treatments; back treatments and facials.

• Exfoliation: Exfoliation involves rubbing, polishing, or scrubbing the skin, or using

enzymes on it, to remove dead skin and dirt. Removing dead cells allows the skin to
accept moisturisers and other skin treatments more easily.

• Ayurvedic message: Ayurvedic Massage is known as Abhyangam in Sanskrit.

According to the Ayurvedic Classics Abhayngam is an important dincharya (Daily
Regimen) that is needed for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. The massage technique
used during Ayurvedic Massage aims to stimulate the lymphatic system.

• Burmese Massage: Traditional Burmese Foot Massage, Burmese massage has its
ancient origins from Thai, Chinese and Indian medicine. Currently, Burmese massage
also includes the use local natural ingredients such as Thanaka, which helps to
promote smooth skin and prevents sunburn.

• Thai Massage: Traditional Thai massage (Nuad Boran) is generally based on a

combination of Indian and Chinese traditions of medicine.

• Turkish Bath Massage: In traditional Turkish baths, massage involves not just
vigorous muscle kneading, but also joint cracking.

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 • Ashiatsu Japanese Massage: In ashiatsu, the practitioner uses their feet to deliver
treatment. The name comes from the Japanese, ashi for foot and atsu for pressure.
This technique typically uses the heel, sesamoid, arch and/or whole plantar surface of
foot, and offers large compression, tension and shear forces with less pressure than an
elbow, and is ideal for large muscles, such as in thigh, or for long-duration upper
trapezius compressions.

• Acupressure: Acupressure is a technique similar in principle to acupuncture. It is

based on the concept of life energy which flows through “meridians” in the body. In
treatment, physical pressure is applied to acupuncture points with the aim of clearing
blockages in those meridians.

2.5 Components of a spa facility:

2.5.1 The basics:
• Reception Desk and Welcome area
• Reservations and Scheduling
• Retail/Spa Boutique
• Men’s and Women’s Locker Rooms
• Dry Treatment Rooms
• Wet Treatment Rooms
• European Hydro-Massage
• Treatment Showers and Baths
• Treatment Waiting Area
• Treatment Lab
2.5.2 Optional:
• Private Relaxation/Meditation Areas
• Men’s and Women’s Wet Areas
• Common Wet Areas
• Movement Studio
• Fitness Equipment Studio
• Swimming Pools and Aquatics
• Administrative Offices
• Staff Lounge
• Storage Areas
• Laundry Room
• Spa Café and Juice Bar
• Beauty Salon

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2.5.3 Design for beauty services in a spa environment:
• Beauty-related services such as nails, hair, and make-up can be integrated into the spa
environment, and some are best offered in a separate salon area.
• Floors should be of a material that is easy to clean (i.e., Vinyl tile).
• Lighting should be flattering to hair and Skin.
• Include a separate small reception counter which also acts as the retail point of sale.
2.5.4 Design for facial rooms:
• Design Considerations
• Laundry drops directly outside of rooms, preferably dropping into chute or carts.
• Millwork for cabinets must washable.
• Provide extra sound proofing in between rooms and hallways Clients must be able to
directly access the salon from the women’s locker room.
Equipment:
• Facial lounges: 72”x30”.
• Provide a sink.
• Provide stool on rollers, with adjustable height and back support.
Space Requirements:
80-100 sq. ft. 8’x10’ or 10’x10’. (Allow enough space for door to open comfortably, at the
foot of table)
Location & Access:
• Located in “dry” therapy area with massage rooms, or in the Beauty Salon area.
• Lounge and wait area should be within proximity to the treatment rooms. (This
minimizes traffic in between treatments)

Room Set-Up:
Sink should be located behind lounge or to the side. (Both hot and cold running water is
necessary) sink should be located behind lounge or to the side. (Both hot and cold running
water is necessary)
Flooring:
• Linoleum or vinyl tile- floor must be non-porous, surface, smooth and washable.
• Walls, Ceilings, and Doors.
• Wall paper or paint.
• TIP: Wallpaper may separate at seems from the steamer.
• Doors must be solid and have some type of numbering or lettering for identification
and an “in use” sign.

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Lighting:
• Indirect lighting with dimmer control on wall or overhead at edge of ceiling, not
directly over facial lounge.
• Task lighting at counter surface.
• Tip: provide separate overhead lighting for waxing, on separate switch. room does not
require daylight.
Electrical:
• Wall outlet at foot and sides of table.
• Counter-height outlet for sterilizer, waxing unit, essential oil diffuser.
• In-house with intercom, in each room.
• Sound System: same system as for massage rooms-centrally located sound system
with speakers in each room. Tip: each room needs individual volume control knob.
Storage:
Storage cabinet for professional products with locks and drawers for small tools. Countertop
for small sterilizer.
2.5.5 Design for massage/touch therapy room:
Design Considerations:
• Massage rooms should have a small sink and linen cabinet.
• Rooms need to be sound insulated.
• Use lever-type hardware for door knobs (therapists have oil on their hands)
• EQUIPMENT: 72”x30” massage tables: (deep tissue tables should be 39” wide.
Space Requirements:
Generally, 120-140 sq. ft., room variations include: 9’x12’, 19’x12’, 10’x14’, 12’x12’
therapist requires a min 3’ work-space around the massage table.
Location & Access: Located in “dry” therapy area. Tip: should have access to laundry storage
and drop off.
Room Set-Up: Sink and cabinet should be in corner at an angle in 9’x12’ rooms. Sinks should
have hot and cold water.
Flooring: Vinyl tile, wood, or cushioned recreational surface.
Walls, Ceilings, And Doors: Washable wall paper or paint. Allow doors to open comfortably.
Doors need lettering or numbering and an “in use” sign or light.
Lighting: Indirect lighting with dimmer control on walls or overhead (not directly above
massage table) windows lighting preferred with vertical, horizontal, or roman blinds.
Electrical: Provide wall outlets at foot and sides of table, and a counter-height outlet for and
essential oil diffuser. Tip: In-house phone with intercom in rooms is advised in larger
facilities.

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Sound System: One centrally located sound system, with speakers in each room that have an
individual volume control knob.
Storage: Smaller rooms can have tables with built-in storage space for linens, towels, oils,
bolsters etc. If room is too small to provide storage inside, storage directly outside room is
necessary.
2.5.6 Designing spa treatment rooms
A wet area treatment room should feed off each wet area. Access to these treatment areas
should be from both the men’s and women’s locker rooms through a hallway. The area
should include:
• Treatment tables.
• Sink.
• Counter space.
• Clean and soiled linen storage.
• Floor drain.
• Overhead showers or treatment shower.
• Infra-red heat lamps recessed into ceiling over each table.
Dry Treatment Rooms:
• Keep treatment areas as flexible as possible. Rooms to change when program
changes.
• Provide for sinks, lockable storage cabinetry, counter space with mirror above,
clothing hooks on back of door, clean & soiled linen storage, electrical outlets on two
side walls and above counter, floors of an easily cleanable material (i.e., Vinyl tile).
• All lighting should be indirect and on rheostats.
• All treatment rooms should be as sound proof as possible.
• Provide for separate music system with individual controls.
• Provide for clothing hooks.
• Provide for “In Use” signage on all treatment room doors.
• Provide for lockable storage in each room.
• Provide for numbers or letters on doors of each room for identification.
• Balance of nature and man-made elements.
• Focus on healing environment
Dry Room Treatments:
• Massage
• Facial.
• Body dry brushing.
• Body masks seaweed, clay, or mud body wraps body exfoliation self-tanning
application.
• Thermal heat treatments (blankets, packs, etc.)
• Herbal wraps.
• Sound and light machines (controlled environment therapy)

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 • Relaxation lounge.

2.5.7 Key Environmental Dimensions:

Ambient Conditions:
• Temperature
• Air quality
• Noise levels
• Music
• Smells
Space/Function:
• Layout
• Equipment
• Furnishings
Signs/Symbols and Artifacts:
• Signage
• Personal/thematic artifacts
• Style of decor
Minimum Treatment Room Dimensions:
The minimum dimensions for a massage room are 10' x 12'. This will give you almost 4 feet
on each side of the table.
Sound System:
• Public spaces--general system for majority of including weight gym.
• Treatment rooms- strategically located system with individual controls in each room.
• Aerobics gym - separate system housed directly in gym with cassette and CD player.
Lighting:
• Consider incandescent “mood” lighting.
• Lamps and sconces should reflect theme and “soul” of property.
• Should be indirect and on rheostats throughout the building
Space Planning:
Effective space planning must be a team effort. You and your management team (architect,
designer, consultant, and existing employees), will need to develop a facility layout that takes
into consideration:
• Programs plumbing and electrical requirements.
• Environmental variables such as noise control, colours and lighting.
• Accessories and equipment requirements.

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• Traffic flow for peak use.
• Ergonomics.

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Chapter 3. PLANNING OF A SPA

Today, spas are the places for people providing a temporal tranquillity and escape from the
real world. Spa and wellness places are modern day temples in terms of giving people the
chance of feeling to be whole and complete inside; so, in this content, they are advised to be
planned accordingly in cultural and sociological terms. There are several steps that needs to
be taken into consideration to plan and construct a qualified spa environment.
First, the spa type is decided since this decision affects every phase from beginning to the
end. Pursuing to that, the spa concept is urged to be defined. After the decision of spa type
and the concept, the schematic design phase starts.
Thus, in order to plan a good layout, professional parties, who are accustomed to spa design
principal and its components, are brought together. The phases for spa design consist of
defining the strategy, preliminary study and briefing, concept design, matured design,
technical design, construction, handover and in use.
Ten domains of the spa experience:
1. The Waters
2. Touch, Massage and Bodywork
3. Food, Nourishment, Diet and Nutrition
4. Mind/Body/Spirit
5. Movement, Exercise and Fitness
6. Aesthetics, Skin Care, Natural Beauty Agents
7. Environment, Climatology, Global Ecology
8. Time, Rhythm, and Cycles
9. Social/Cultural Arts and Values, Spa Culture
10. Social Contribution
3.1 Spa Design Principals:
Before starting to design a spa experience and its associating spaces, definition of the user
profile emerges as the essential step in design process.
For example:
If it is a resort hotel spa, what percentage of the hotel guests are going to use the spa facility?
It is also important whether facilities are offered through a membership program or not.
These inquiries have vital importance in defining both design objectives and targeting the
customers.
Apart from the user parameter, some major guiding design principles that are directly
resonating with functional programming and design architecture do also stand on the very
core zones of the spa spaces, directly in relation to entrance and reception areas, or in
changing rooms, relaxation areas, wet areas, pool zone, massage as well as treatment rooms.

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In addition, the atmospheric components like light, fragrance and sound are also significant
section, it is parameters. So, in this worth to mention briefly the basic design principles of
these spots.
When approaching to a spa from outside, the user gradually waterfalls from the public
domain to the private region of the spa. In this respect, the entrance zone, particularly the
reception area emerges as the first spot, where the user initially confronts with the spa
facility, which in fact performs the primary embrace. Subliminally, this zone delivers the
preliminary image of the spa complex, which projects the corporately of services, while
conveying the identity.
Besides, while planning the reception zone, both the consultation areas and waiting lounges
are desired to be placed in relation to the circulation of the users, in order to make them
invisible/visible and uneasy/easy to reach the desired zone at the moment of their arrival. A
well-designed reception zone is advised to also accommodate a retail area or just some
shelves that provide the exhibition of the products, which are used in the facilities. Thus,
maintaining the retail activities in the first hand is also essential as the spa users are mostly
tend to purchase the products that are used in the treatments. In addition to these,
management zone or employee offices and staff areas should be also placed within an easy
reach from the reception area. Yet, if the facility is located in a city hotel, the entrance of the
fitness area is planned separately, since the work hours of fitness are generally longer than the
spa hours. Moreover, in the circulation lanes of the wet and dry areas, the segregation of dirty
foot versus clean foot zones are fundamental and need to be well organized. Besides, clean
towel and used towel distribution are also planned accordingly.
Apart from the entrance zone, the reception area and adjacent spaces, changing rooms also
emerge as the secondary important spaces in the planning of the spa facility. In relation to
both circulation and program, changing rooms are mostly placed near to the reception zone,
whereas users immediately enter the changing rooms right after they are checked in at the
reception. In fact, this shift further defines the boundary, where clean foot area starts, since
the hygiene standards exist as the most crucial procedure in all wet treatment spaces. Inside
the changing rooms, wet areas -like showers, toilets etc. - and dry areas -like lockers,
changing cabinets, vanity units- are also advised to be planned separately. These segregated
approach in design also helps engineers to control the diverse climatic impacts like wetness,
humidity, slippery in different spaces. Yet, the changing rooms should also be designed
distinctly according to genders, while dry vanity areas should require different arrangements,
such as, make up or shaving areas due to different user groups. Besides, storage and staff
rooms are also needed to be considered in an overall programming, while the rooms for spa
staff should be placed totally separated from customers’ circulation, in order to detach the spa
user from the regular world as much as possible. So, properly designed circulation halls may
help everyone reach his/her purpose easily.
Indeed, apart from each zone within the program, relaxation areas emerge as the most
important zone of a spa. Reciprocally, counting on both the spatial capacities and the well
planning of the given space, at least more than one diverse room for relaxation activities -
such as wet spa relaxation, after massage relaxation, silent relaxation, or social relaxation-
should be placed in different parts of the spa complex, in order to create a variation and to

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offer diverse atmospheres to the users. Considering the time spent in the space as well as the
level of relaxation, maintaining the stations for snack and beverage services inside the
relaxation areas are also essential to respond the needs of the users within the space. Yet, it is
worth to remind that in the planning phase, the placement of pantry rooms nearby or
adjacency of these service spots for preparation facilities is essential. Besides, diverse
acoustical and climatic comfort standards should be supplied for each of these relaxation
areas.
When looking into more detail of these spaces; the wet spa requires, hot thermal cabins like
saunas, steam rooms, Turkish Baths or Hammams and cold thermal cabins like shock
showers, ice fountain or ice grottos or snow rooms and mixtures of these extinct thermal
cabins. Indisputably, hot and cold thermal cabins should be organized accordingly with the
treatment approach. It is preferred that they are planned around a main square, where users
can easily access to each cabin in sequential uses. As mentioned, these special thermal cabins
have different climatic and atmospheric arrangements, while the indoor comfort conditions of
HVAC are vital for users to breathe easily in these cabins without confronting any further
problems. The proper use and definition of the cabins have to be performed before the
construction phase in order to create the most convenient spaces. These spaces also require
plant rooms for their technical equipment. The selection of material plate for the finishes do
also have the vital importance for a well-designed spa experience, as well as its maintenance
procedures. Thus, materials with non-corrosive and antibacterial characteristics, as well as
easy clean and anti-slip qualities should be preferred. Besides, the selection of sanitary
fixtures should be made according to the density of use or estimated spa population.
Pursuing the wet treatment spaces, design of the spa pools also appears as the vital stage in
the planning. In this respect, the location of pools and the arrival from the changing areas are
the important principles in the pool design. As the layout of the facilities designates the
location of the pool, due to those facilities pool needs to serve the users even in the times that
the spa is closed. Yet, according to hygienic procedures pool areas should require showers,
and users must be oriented towards to the showers, before they use the pools. Thus, enough
space should be placed around the pools, while accommodating sitting units and lounges. The
material selection is needed to be performed delicately, since the pool area designates the
most potential risk of accidents for users. Thus, anti-slip floor materials should be preferred.
Moreover, the depths of pools ought to be organized parallel with the functions of the pools,
whereas the depth varies according to the functions of activity, recreation, hydrotherapic or
infant use. Furthermore, underfloor heating system is also needed to keep the anti-slip
surfaces constantly dry. The underfloor heating further requires the optimum control
standards for the users. If the pool is located at outside, the positioning of the pool basin
should be performed in order to optimize the maximum amount of daylight intake and the
avoidance of the negative affect of the dominant wind. Mechanical design of the pools has
the crucial purpose for a proper working pool. Enough sized plant rooms should be
considered and placed underneath the pools.
In addition to relaxation rooms and pools, the massage provides a further relaxation to the
body. In this regard, massage rooms should be placed in the most silent areas of the spa
complex to maximize the bodily and mentally relaxation. The design of the massage rooms
should allow to accommodate different kinds of therapies. Besides, lockers, showers, hooks,

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seat or relaxing element are recommended to be also placed in the rooms for customers’ use.
The atmosphere, the music and the fragrance choices are advised to be designed according to
therapy types. Yet, direct lighting, direct fresh air or direct air exhaust are recommended to be
avoided in order to supply a desired comfort level. In addition to these, storing units and
sanitary locations are advised to be well organized for the therapists to give proper therapy
services. However, the infrastructural needs such as sockets’ location, towel or stone warmer
etc. are advised to be defined according to massage types and programmed in relation to that.
The material selection in these areas is advised to be performed in terms of considering the
comfort of both the user and the therapists, where in some cases therapists are needed to
stand for long time periods. Nevertheless, signage design is also suggested to be carried out
to show which rooms are in use. Full isolation for users is vital for a good therapy.
Finally, lighting design & fixtures are also essential elements in creating the desired
atmosphere in the spa experience. They are needed to be in harmony with the general spa
design. In fact, lighting plays the central role in the planning of a spa atmosphere, whereas
the designer has to fictionalize different themes and levels of lighting in the environment.
Indirect lighting may be preferred in general and all the lighting elements should be
dimmable. Both scenarios of lighting for poetic atmosphere in use and mechanical setup in
maintenance should be designed separately. Preferably, the locations of control units are
needed to be hidden from the users’ approach, whereas the control of air and the lighting are
preferred to be done either by the therapist or by the spa staff.
As another intangible domain, the most important input for the soundscape is the acoustical
design. Different type of therapies should have different type of soundproof levels. All
infrastructural units are needed to be isolated properly. Different sound zones should be
defined for reception, massage areas, therapy rooms, fitness studios, changing rooms,
relaxation areas and thermal cabins. The selection of sound equipment is advised to be
carried out accordingly.
As the third and the last intangible domain, the fragrance design also has the crucial role for
a spa. It not only reflects corporate identity of a spa, but also appeals to the customers’
perception. Even some different fragrance concepts can be created in different therapies.
3.2 Spa Components:
Spa components are going to be examined in four main categories consisting of saunas and
other hot therapies, cold therapies, dry therapies and hammam.

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3.2.1 Saunas and other hot therapies:
• Sauna: Sauna is a small room or building designed as a place to experience dry or wet
heat sessions, or an establishment with one or more of these facilities. The steam and
high heat make the bathers perspire.

• Steam Room: A steam room is a heated room that people use for relaxation and to
relieve some medical conditions.

• Laconium: Laconium is a dry form of sauna, the temperature is around 55°C. After a
short time, the body is warmed up so that it is optimally detoxified by intensive
sweating. The blood circulation is stimulated and the metabolism is stimulated, the
immune system is mobilized.

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 • Mud Bath: A mud bath is a bath of mud, commonly found in areas where hot spring
water can combine with volcanic ash.

3.2.2 Cold Therapies:

• Showers: Experience Shower: It is a shower or a shower path, which with water at
different temperatures and intensities, passing from tropical effects up to the
nebulization, give a particular experience.

• Shock Shower: The shock shower is one that dumps a large amount of cold water
onto the user in a very short period. It is ideal after a sauna, steam bath or any other
high thermal treatment.

• Plunge Pools: A plunge pool is a small, typically deep, pool designed for the purposes
of wading or lounging. They are great for people who enjoy sitting on the steps of a
pool and drinking a glass of tea in the summer, or for people who live in very hot
climates and use their pools mostly to cool down. Because of their size, we cannot

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 swim in a plunge pool, but we may be able to do other types of exercises, such as
water aerobics.

• Snow Rooms: Much like a sauna, a snow room consists of a small, enclosed space
designed for maximum health benefits but unlike its sweatier sister, the snow room is
chilled to a perfect 14-degrees Fahrenheit and features actual snow flurries all year
round.

• Ice Fountains: Ice Fountains deliver crushed ice into a decorative bowl for an
invigorating cool down body rub after a thermal treatment. The breath-taking change
in temperature firms the skin, increases circulation, strengthens the immune system,
and refreshes the user.

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3.2.3 Dry Therapies:
• Massage Rooms: Massage room means a cubicle, booth, room or enclosed or semi-
enclosed area within a massage establishment where massage services are performed
on patrons.

• Relaxation lounges: A relaxation room is a place to get into a calm state of mind
before a treatment or to enjoy the soporific effects of a wonderful treatment.

• Fitness studios: Fitness studio means a development where space, equipment or

instruction is provided for activities related to physical well-being such as dance,
martial arts, yoga, and other forms of physical exercise and does not include a
recreational facility. Fitness activities may be addressed as the leading activity in
wellness approach.

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3.2.4 Hammam (Turkish Bath):
By being one of the most distinct examples of bath typology, Turkish bath, or with its
original name Hammam is a noteworthy case/archetype that combines hot, cold, wet and
dry therapies within itself.

The Turkish word hammam etymologically originates from the Arabic word “hamm”
which refers to the meanings of heating or being hot that had been used in the similar
meaning and content throughout Ottoman Empire. Turkish baths are planned to
accommodate three diverse, yet consequent zones of cold, warm and hot spaces.
Sequential programming of the spaces in relation to the increasing temperatures enables
the users to the experience the heat/hot gradually.
The tradition of bathing is an integral part of Middle Eastern and North African culture,
often taking place in beautiful old bath-houses. Bathing is as much a place to gather and
talk, as it is a place to relax and clean ourself.
Two of the most common types of baths are the Moroccan hammam and the Turkish bath.
While both are popular, the Moroccan hammam is often favoured because of its use of
steam over water. Steam does wonders for softening skin, relaxing the mind, and opening
the pores for a deep cleansing experience.
Benefits:
• Boosts the immune system
• Rejuvenates the body
• Intensely invigorates
• Relaxes the mind and body

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3.2.5 Other service areas:
Other service areas include staff rooms, circulation halls/ areas, pantries for preparations and
storages with variable volumes depending on the spa enterprise. It can be articulated that the
properly operated spas have enough spaces for service areas.
• Staff rooms: Spas generally serve the customers almost 12 hours a day. In this
content, it is needed for staff to change and leave their belongings, spend time when
they are not in therapy sessions. Considering these conditions; changing units and
closets, showers and toilets, a waiting lounge with kitchenette are advised to be placed
in staff rooms.

• Circulation halls: Well-planned circulation halls are keys to a properly working spa
flow. The recommended way of planning circulation halls is to separate staff
circulation from the user circulation, in addition; if the spa space is big enough it is
recommended to locate separate entrances to different spa zones for users and staff.

• Pantries: As it is indicated in previous chapters, spa and wellness activities include

nutrition. In order to serve the customers rightly, pantry spaces are advised to be in
the related areas such as tepidity of hammam, relaxation lounges and changing rooms.

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Chapter 4. ELEMENTS OF SPA THAT AFFECT SPA GUESTS’
PERCEPTION & SPATIAL EXPERIENCE
Spa design is a multidisciplinary and multi-tasking design process; while responding to the
systematic needs of wet areas and heat experience cabinets on one hand, on the other hand
atmospherically qualities and ambient characteristics of the interior spaces. As it is
mentioned in previous chapters, definition of the spa concept emerges as the essential step of
composing the spa facility.

4.1 Design Criteria Effecting on Spa Experience

The criteria of configuration of the spa environment, which enhances user experience can be
examined in three essential categories that consist of spatial, atmospherically, and technical
configuration.

It is believed that a well-designed spa is sought to address to a balanced combination of these

three aspects; blending the physical and technical spatial requirements with poetical aspects.

Yet, in order to map the proper functionality and the program capacities of the selected
cases, and to maintain a resume introduction, the exemplar is initially dismantled in terms of
its;

• Type: The type of spa that plays an important role on evaluation is going to be
detected at first.

• Capacity: It is going to be detected what percentage of the hotel guests are benefiting
of the spa facility.

• Out-reach: It is going to evaluated whether the spa facility offering a membership

program or program for users daily.

4.1.1 Spatial configuration:

Spatial configuration is going to be examined in three main categorizations; articulation of

space, space flow and capacity.

• Articulation of space: The general location of spa and its surroundings are going to be
explored. In addition, gradual space planning; spatial vicinities; transitional
behaviour of spaces; interface/ skin characteristics of spaces; enterprise facilities like
inward / outward orientation, opening hours, separate entrances or separately hireable
cabins are going to be examined.

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 • Flow and sequentially of sub-spaces: Segregation of sexes, segregation of clean foot
versus dirty floor, segregation of user and staff circulation, orientation and way
finding (signage) are going to be examined.

• Spatial capacities and dimensions: Program requirements, additional services (e.g.,

nutrition, nature walks) and spatial capacities (dimensions, volumes) are going to be
reviewed.

4.1.2 Atmospheric configuration:

Like in many other spaces, the ambient characteristics play the essential role in users’
engagement to the spatiality. Thus, the crucial elements of the atmosphere like music and
fragrance are recommended to be selected according to the offered therapy types. Besides,
selection of materials inside the spa spaces, their material qualities, textures, and colours do
also play an active role in the creation of the ambient. In addition, direct lighting, direct fresh
air or direct air exhaust are needed to be avoided to supply a desired comfort level. On this
matter, atmospheric configuration is going to be examined in four main categorizations;
material selection, lighting, soundscape, and fragrance.

• Material selection: The selection of material plate for the finishings do also have the
vital importance for a well-designed spa experience, as well as its maintenance
procedures. In this content, material selection is going to be reviewed in three main
aspects; visual, tactile, and hygiene & ergonomic.

a) Visual aspects: Material selection is going to be interpreted in terms of design

approach and mood imagery.

b) Tactile aspects: The temperature of the surfaces where user get in touch with,
roughness-softness are going to be examined.

c) Hygiene & ergonomic aspects: Porousness, antibacterial characteristics, easy

cleanness, anti-slip qualities, anti-corrosion and ergonomic (both comfort of
user and staff) aspects are going to be evaluated.

• Lighting design: Lighting design and fixtures are also essential elements in creating
the desired atmosphere in the spa experience. They are sought to be in harmony with
the general spa design. In fact, lighting plays the central role in the planning of a spa,
whereas designers envision different themes and levels of lighting in the
environment. It is recommended to be designed that the facility has two separate
lighting scenarios consisting of mood and maintenance lighting.

a) Mood (Poetic) lighting: The preferences of direct-indirect lighting, colour

warmth’s and lighting levels of spaces, space defining highlight elements and
fixtures, allocation of control switches are going to be examined.

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 b) Maintenance lighting: It is going to be evaluated whether the facility has
lighting scenario for maintenance or cleaning purposes only.

• Soundscape: As another intangible domain, design of the soundscape inside the spa
environment is also the challenge of creating a holistic spa experience. In this respect,
soundscape examined in three main aspects; ambient, therapeutical, and emergency
call.

a) Ambient music: The general mood music for the whole spa, designated
different sound zones according the variation of sound-scenarios and cabins
with the different music scenario are going to be examined.

b) Therapeutical sounds: It is going to be evaluated if the spa or specialized

thermal cabins use different sounds other than the music.

c) Emergency call: It is going to be investigated whether the facility has sound/

call scenario for the states of emergency.

• Fragrance: Like the other intangible atmospherically elements such as light and
sound, the fragrance design also plays a crucial role for a spa environment. It not only
reflects corporate identity of a spa, but also appeals to the customers’ perception.
Even some different fragrance concepts can be created in different therapies. The
design depends on whether the customer is tried to be awake or the customer is tried
to be eluded from the real world. However, the interference of unpleasing smells with
therapy spaces are obliged to be prevented. It can only be sustained through a good
plumbing design.

a) General spa fragrance: It is going to be surveyed whether the spa enterprise

has its own corporate scent for the whole spa.

b) Specialized Cabins: The cabins with the different fragrance scenarios or the
use of different scents are going to be examined.

4.1.3 Infrastructural configuration:

The key to proper working spa may be stressed as properly designed and implemented
infrastructural systems. It is not possible to have efficiency and proper maintenance without
well-considered infrastructure. In this aspect, the infrastructural configuration is going to be
examined in three main titles; HVAC, Plumbing and Electricity.

• HVAC: Indoor comfort qualities that is supplied via heating, ventilating and air
conditioning are going to be evaluated.

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• Plumbing: it is going to be evaluated if the drainage is designed to prevent puddling
in the spaces with high flow rate, the suppliance of hot-cold water and fire sprinkler
scenario.

• Electricity: Electrical infrastructure needs like the locations of sockets and switches,
suppliance of towel or stone warmer for treatment rooms considering different
therapeutical approaches and ambient heating are going to be examined.

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Chapter 5. CASE STUDIES

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Chapter 6. SURVEY

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Chapter 7. SITE ANALYSIS

7.1 Location:

7.2 Site Plan:

Taj, Santacruz East, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400099

• The site is located on second floor.

• Area of site is approximately 11500 sq. Ft.
• Site comprises of 5 columns of 1500mm x 1500mm and 7 columns of 300mm x
600mm in dimensions.
• Beam width is 400mm and 200mm and beam drop is about 600mm.
• Clear floor to slab height is 5000mm.

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7.3 Civil Alteration Layout:

7.4 Zoning Layout:

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7.5 Rendered Floor Plan:

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DESIGN BRIEF

A man with a disability living in a large-sized body enters the spa’s relaxation area and looks
for a chair that he can get in and out of without further injuring himself. An older breast
cancer survivor needs a massage but knows that lying face down will cause unbearable
discomfort in her chest. A non-binary person must choose which gendered changing room to
use, as there is no gender-neutral changing or restroom facilities.

While these stories are fictional, they are realities for many spa-goers. Plenty may even skip
the spa altogether when they are unsure if they will feel comfortable, safe, or welcome.
Hospitality professionals have increasingly been addressing the human element of inclusion
in teams, so it makes sense to expand that focus to the spa’s interior design and how to make
physical environments for guests more inclusive.

Inclusive design should be at the forefront of all design decisions because everyone benefits
from an environment that aligns with inclusive principles. It enables everyone to participate
equally, confidently, and independently in everyday activities.

I consider not only the visual effect of a design but how guests will experience the space,
too. There is no doubt that the design of a space will affect you on a personal level – whether
it is remarkable architectural features, the design of the interiors or the comfort of the
furniture.

At Body & Soul Spa, I focus on two major design elements. First, I look at functionality, to
ensure that the adjacencies and circulation provide a smooth guest journey and maximum
service efficiency. Second, I look at the guest experience in each space within the spa,
imagining how a guest will feel and how to make that experience unforgettable.

To maintain an enjoyable guest journey, designs should avoid complex circulation and guest
flows. For example, areas in which a member of staff does not accompany the guest must be
completely intuitive. Those guest paths should also have minimal contact with any support or
service circulation routes, both to avoid confusion and to keep support seamless and discreet.
Putting ourselves in the shoes of the guest and exploring the space beforehand helps our
design team realise potential errors in circulation before it is too late.

A spa must be well understood while still allowing guests the freedom to forget the space in
order to fully engage in the treatment or experience they are there to enjoy. Touch is an
essential pillar in allowing for full immersion, as this is when guests will experience the
space without their eyes. From the temperature and water softness of the vitality pool to the
smooth warmth of a heated lounge and the cushioning of the massage bed, each touch-point
must transmit the right message. This creates an authentic experience and further enhances
the design of the space and the services provided.

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CONCLUSION

The purpose of this research was to write a theory on a spa design and record a source
information about the history. As the research progressed and the case studies were done,
things were distinguished to a distinct difference between ayurvedic spa and normal spa. The
purpose then became to write a theory and study it through about spa design with an
emphasis on spa. A goal for this purpose was to introduce the history of spas along with the
psychological roles of these types of environments. However, a theory regarding spa design
should be inclusive of all areas, therefore self-referential spa design will be added to the
research. The components that needed to be comprised include: a calm ambiance, furniture
ergonomics and configuration, safety maintaining efficiency, seating ergonomics and
sensory stimulants. The design criteria within the theory define the type of experience within
any spas. Based on the analysis covered it can also be concluded that there were multiple
modifications to follow and it was important to understand different techniques in order to
improve the design along with its experience.

Great spa design and development facilitates well-being in all its forms. When great design
meets inclusivity, personal well-being is enhanced by social cohesion and enjoyment for all.
To achieve this, we as a designer should involve as many people as possible.

We should take our cues from the people who make up our clientele: older folks, people with
disabilities who may or may not be assisted with wheelchairs or walkers, people with breasts,
the visually impaired, highly sensitive people and trauma survivors.

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BIBLIOGRAPHY & REFERENCES

Links:

https://biblus.accasoftware.com/en/how-to-design-a-wellness-centre-and-spa-the-complete-
technical-guide/

https://www.spa-balance.com/how-to-design-and-launch-a-profitable-spa-a-case-study-of-
the-santuario-spa-at-hotel-abadia-retuerta-ledomaine/

https://planforcegroup.com/blog/retail-spa-design-four-secrets-to-success

https://www.florim.com/en/blog/design-of-spas-and-wellness-centres-principal-guidelines/

https://www.communityamenitymanagement.com/blog/the-importance-of-quality-spa-
design-plans

https://www.wellspa360.com/business/management/article/22275926/the-5-principles-of-
inclusive-spa-design

https://www.exclusivelyspa.com/creating-your-spa-3/

https://www.gocohospitality.com/how-spa-design-is-important-for-the-guest-experience/

https://www.dezeen.com/tag/spas/

https://www.archdaily.com/search/projects/categories/spa

https://archello.com/brand/spa-design

https://in.pinterest.com/lakeaustinwp/spa-design/

https://www.healthandfitnesstravel.com/blog/what-are-the-different-types-of-spa

https://hoteltalk.app/15-types-of-spa-treatments-in-hotels-and-resorts/

https://www.riverdayspa.com/what-are-the-different-types-of-spa-six-types-of-spas/

https://www.evergreenbeauty.edu/blog/exploring-the-different-types-of-spas/

https://www.medifee.com/spa-services-india/

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https://www.theholidayspot.com/natural_ways_to_a_healthy_lifestyle/types-of-spa-
treatments.htm

https://archistudent.net/library-study-for-designing-spa-center/

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/340449720_Improving_Spa_Services_to_a_Better
_Customers'_Attraction_A_Case_Study_on_Red_Sea_Resorts

https://core.ac.uk/download/pdf/127609162.pdf

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