The spa industry continues to thrive, driven by the ever-growing demand for relaxation and overall holistic wellness. While the treatments and therapies offered at a spa play a significant role, it is the spa’s design that truly shapes its ambiance. The design and interiors of a spa help in creating a space where guests can find a solace from the general hustle-bustle of life.
A thoughtfully designed space not only reflects the essence of a spa, but also helps elevate the overall experience for a client, making the place a visual and sensory retreat for them.
Here, StyleSpeak brings to you a curated selection of standout spas spanning across continents that were recognised for their exceptional concepts and designs in 2024.
Asia
Six Senses Southern Dunes, The Red Sea (Umluj, Saudi Arabia)
Spanning across 3,974 square meters, the Six Senses Southern Dunes is a spa offering an otherworldly sensorial experience. Crowned as the World’s Best Spa Design 2024 by World Spa Awards, this salon incorporates the rustic Middle Eastern elements of sweeping dunes and sandbeds. Operating entirely on solar energy, the spa includes phenomenal textured fabrics, large sculptures, and artisan-patterned walls reflecting local art and design. The neutral base palette chosen by this spa compliments the overall ambience of the area, helping the guests connect better to the beauty of the desert.
The Spa at THE KARL LAGERFELD (Macau, China)
Nestled in the Grand Lisboa Palace Macau, The Spa at THE KARL LAGERFELD is an indulgent space designed solely to rejuvenate the senses. Globally known for its state-of-the-art design, this spa was awarded the SBID 2024 Regional Award for Asia under the category of Healthcare & Wellness Design. The interiors of this luxurious oasis incorporates contemporary elements ranging from chic black marble to regal gold mosaic accents. The rooms of this spa are adorned with wall embroideries and striking dark art-deco pieces, making it look very avante-garde. The spa spreads across a large 7,750-square-foot area, includes a bubbly hot tub, aromatic wet saunas, a warming dry sauna along with an ice fountain.
Joali Being (Bodufushi Island, Maldives)
If there’s one spa that understands the art of architectural experience, it is Joali Being. Recognised as one of the World’s Best Spa Design 2024, this spa elevates the sensorial experience through its thoughtful design. Termed as the world’s first dedicated private-island wellness resort, Joali Being’s primary aim is to provide a sense of sensorial relief. The interiors of this spa are designed with taupe tones, warm woods and woven panelling, giving it an earthy feel.
Europe
Alpine Spa at Bürgenstock Resort & Alpine Spa (Lucerne, Switzerland)
Lauded for its interior, the Alpine Spa at Bürgenstock Resort & Alpine Spa was nominated globally for Best Spa Design in the year 2024. Spread across a massive 10,000 sqm, this spa is perched amidst a breathtaking backdrop of Switzerland’s mountainous landscapes. By making use of textural elements such as stone and timber, the spa incorporates the color palettes of green and bronze. The standout design feature of this spa is its cantilevered glass box that provides panoramic views of the alps, making it the ultimate destination for uninterrupted relaxation.
Lanserhof Sylt (List auf Sylt, Germany)
Situated within the heart of a natural reserve of the Wadden Sea, the Lanserhof Sylt was nominated for the category of World’s Best Spa Design in 2024. The spa, which boasts an opulent design, features themes of beige, white, and gray. These tones, which are inspired by the dunes, are incorporated within the spa’s timber floors and expansive windows, making the space look chic and elegant. The spa integrates soft textures and muted colors throughout its design, making the overall interiors look soothing and relaxing to the eye. The 5,000sqm space, which is spread across two floors, strives to create a holistic environment for its visitors, making it an absolutely unmissable spot!
Guerlain Spa at Raffles London at The OWO (57 Whitehall, London)
Spanning across four floors, Guerlain Spa at Raffles London at The OWO was recognised by the World Spa Awards for its exceptional design. The spa, which is known for its timeless interiors, surrounds its guests in an environment best described as serene. The spa’s modern ambiance, dominated by gold and timber accents, is designed to exude peace and calm, making it a preferred spot for those wanting to embark on a journey of self-discovery.
Australia
Spa Kinara at Longitude 131° (Uluru, Australia)
If there is one place that blends the words ‘rustic’ and ‘luxury’ together perfectly, it is the Spa Kinara at Longitude 131°. This spa, which was shortlisted by the World Spa Awards for the World’s Best Spa Design 2024, is a space that offers the best of both worlds. Drawing inspiration from the Australian Outback, this retreat reflects the design of a traditional Aboriginal shelter. The spa features elements of dot painting, wood carving and vibrant ceramics, making the space look earthy yet vibrant.
Africa
Six Senses Spa Zil Pasyon (Félicité Island, Seychelles)
Shortlisted by the World Spa Awards 2024 for its exceptional interiors, the Six Senses Spa Zil Pasyon is lauded for its muted themes. Built using local materials such as granite and timber, this spa includes contemporary designs which include elements of subdued fabrics and tiles. The spa follows an intentionally restrained design palette, which is used to naturally reflect the surroundings of the spa.
