In this blog article, we summarize the insights we have gained in 2023 on designing wellness areas in luxury hotels.
The years of the pandemic have shown how important it is for people to connect. And this is influencing interior design in many ways. Nature is increasingly important: natural materials such as wood and stone and a renaissance of indoor plants are clear indications. In addition, we are looking for cozy spaces that create a sense of security, using warm colours, soft lighting and comfortable furniture.
These are trends reaching into every corner of hotels - and have recently resulted in a major change in the design of spa areas.
Gone are the days when rooms were primarily functional and materials had to be easy to clean and durable.
Today, the spa is paramount to the overall experience of a luxury hotel stay. Guests are no longer merely looking for a comfortable bed and excellent service, but also for a place to relax and recharge. This change has resulted in increasing investments in the design and equipment of these areas.
The new interior concepts for wellness and spa areas in luxury hotels are all about offering guests a more holistic experience. It is no longer just about offering a few massage beds and whirlpools, but rather about creating an atmosphere of peace and luxury. This is reflected in the choice of materials, colours and design elements.
Spaces that encourage emotions, moods as well as new experiences! For this, let's take a look at materials, textures, colours, lighting and other design elements.
With the intention of achieving individual magic moments, designers can create an intensely memorable experience for the guests. For instance, a quiet, contemplative seating area with soft lighting and comfortable seating can create a relaxing and calming environment.
Spa rituals and self-care have enjoyed great attention in recent years. Interior design plays a crucial role in creating a calming and relaxing atmosphere in hotel spas.
So why have hotel owners been investing so much in these areas recently? The main reason is the increasing demand for wellness and relaxation options. Today, people feel more pressure than ever, and they are looking for ways to relax and unwind. Luxury hotels have realized that the design of high-quality wellness and spa areas can be a unique selling point attracting guests in the first place. Secondly, they are what people remember and talk about Consequently, they invest in top-notch materials and designers to create unique experiences.
The choice of materials is crucial when it comes to creating ta specific atmosphere in the wellness area.
Natural materials create welcoming and cozy interiors with their warm touch and interesting textures. They add a sense of authenticity and natural beauty to interiors, which appeals to many people who want to create spaces that feel genuine and down-to-earth. Many natural materials are known for being durable and hard-wearing, making them a smart investment for interiors.
Overall, the use of natural materials by interior designers is driven by the desire to create spaces that are sustainable, comfortable, beautiful and healthy at the same time.
As a rule, colours in wellness areas tend to be calming and often neutral.
Earthy tones are considered relaxing, and they promote a feeling of stability and comfort. They are in line with the trend of sustainability and a return to nature.
The use of soft rose tones can add a touch of femininity and playfulness to a room, while the use of rich brown tones can create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Earthy, natural tones are easy to integrate into different design styles and mix and match with bold colours if desired. — Depending on your individual style.
Plants have become central to spa design. Spa spaces today are often designed to have a strong connection with the surrounding nature: Large windows allow the forest, meadows and sky to play a part in the interior. Suitable green plants predominate the room. Large plants in pots structure rooms, while interior designers often use smaller plants on the walls.
Today, there is hardly ever a fireplace missing in luxury spa areas. An open fire is considered a particular luxury and, besides the temperature, creates a sense of comfort that comes all the way from within. What's more, those who gaze into the flames often take a look into their own soul, finding peace, balance and strength.
Lighting plays an increasingly important role when creating a warm and inviting ambience. With appropriate lighting fixtures, cozy pockets of light can be created, evoking a private sanctuary in the middle of a wellness lounge. Excellent reading light is considered essential. Suspended lamps or floor lamps with unusual designs - especially when arranged in groups - can add structure to the whole room.
In recent years, the interior design of wellness and spa areas in luxury hotels has changed significantly. Modern guests are looking for an immersive experience that combines both wellness and luxury.
This has resulted in increased investments in high-quality materials and in soothing colours. Natural materials, a neutral colour scheme and sophisticated design elements are key to creating wellness areas that meet the needs of the most demanding guests.
Images: home INTERIOR; Markus Mansi Bobbys Agency; Alex Moling; Hannes Andergassen