id Design Awards 2019 Shortlist: Health + Wellness

As the health benefits of physical relaxation and rejuvenation become more important in counteracting the stresses of modern life, the spa has evolved into the place we go to for a dose of calm. The design of the spa sets the process of relaxation into motion even before treatment begins.

Juice Spa Salon by XBD Collective

Modern yet exuberant, neutral and organic were the keywords in the brief ahead of the launch of this famous salon chain originating in India. Greenery was added to a material palette of wood, champagne, gold metal, matte black metal and Vietnamese white marble, while the furniture and joinery become the main focal points.

The 176 square-metre salon, located in Mirdif City Centre, Dubai, also included abundant stylish retail shelving that highlights various products. Functional grey and bronze mirrors add a stylish touch. The layouts of the eight hairstyling and three hair washing stations, and the five manicure/pedicure stations, two nail stations and four beauty rooms, were predominately determined by functionality. The Moroccan bath focuses on privacy in order to cater to the local market.

Juice Spa Salon by XBD Collective

Rami Jabali by Studio Bruno Guelaff

Having taken a commercial retail unit near the lobby in the new W The Palm hotel on the Palm Jumeirah Dubai, the client’s wishes were very simple: “I want the hippest salon/spa in the region that differs from typical norms which will give the W hotel brand a run for its money.” Dynamic, fun, urban, colourful and edgy were the key describing words.

The main design challenge was determining how to stray away from the typical perceived look and feel of a salon/spa and instead move towards a dynamic environment combining natural materials, exposed concrete and pops of colour. The introduction of a specialised lighting solution that would suit the needs of both the clientele and professionals was the finishing touch to the unique space design.

Rami Jabali by Studio Bruno Guelaff

Qua Spa @ Caesars Palace Bluewaters Island, Dubai by KCA International Designers

The client wanted to extend the oriental aesthetic into a revitalising oasis within the hotel, making it possible for guests to take a journey of rejuvenation and mental and physical relaxation. Luxury, privacy and unprecedented exclusivity were paramount. The spa comprises an airy, double-height reception and retail areas, and a spacious gym with an adjacent juice bar. The ladies’ and gentlemen’s areas each have dedicated changing rooms and grooming areas, with a relaxation room connected to the treatment rooms. The wet areas include steam and sauna, as well as showers and ice fountain. Intricate details, muted neutral colours, naturally textured materials and the minimalist ethos of the resort give the spa a distinct yet cohesive identity. Additionally, the design concept is standardised for the ease of manufacturing and economies of scale.

Qua Spa @ Caesars Palace Bluewaters Island, Dubai by KCA International Designers

Rose Poudre by H2R Design

Elegance, warmth and simplicity were key words provided to guide the designers in creating an escape for women located within the context of the hustle and bustle of the offices and mall at The Galleria, Abu Dhabi. With the goal of providing a luxurious oasis for pampering and self-care, and to encourage positivity and confidence through beauty enrichments, the atmosphere needed to maintain a cosy ‘feel at home’ mood while redefining conventional female accents. Industrial styles and robust materiality project a refined, modern atmosphere, while down-to-earth neutral tones promote relaxation without overdoing the conventional feminine connotations.