There is a growing interest in physical, mental health and well-being, and savvy business owners are tapping into this trend with major investments. Enhancing facilities with intentional, sustainable design is good business sense, and if correctly done can significantly improve revenue and return on investment.
Sparcstudio, an independent, creative design studio specializing in spa and wellness design for over 15 years in the spa, wellness, fitness, hotel, and resort sectors, has announced its key trends in spa design for 2025. "The world of spa design continues to offer unique opportunities for hotel investors and operators to carve a niche for their property in the delivery of exceptional wellness facilities," said creative director, Beverley Bayes.
1. Designing for Longevity
Sustainability remains a hot topic in spa design, and Sparcstudio has highlighted the use of reclaimed and non-toxic materials. For 2025, the focus is on another element of sustainability – building for longevity. Key to this is the specification of durable materials, finishes and details (such as pool quality boards and good falls to drains, designed into wet areas to prevent pooling of water). Opt for a timeless, elegant feel for the spa facilities and concept, using local materials where possible. Future proofing a building for growth should also be high on the list of considerations. When building a new gym/fitness facility in a spa, look to future membership projections when designing the space. This will enable member numbers to grow while serving the membership with a luxury experience.
Photo courtesy of Dormy House
2. Designing for Privacy
While there is a movement towards social wellness clubs, there is a sector of the spa-going public that also values privacy. It is the new luxury, and clever thought and planning can be included in any spa space with ease in pods, private thermal experiences, plus secluded nooks and cozy spaces. The spa garden Cabanas at Pennyhill Park serve this need with elegance and simplicity, and provide additional revenue generating opportunities with their own stocked fridge and mini treatments.
The newly launched Reeds Lodges at South Lodge offer private accommodation and also double as private spa havens, with Infrared sauna, a steam shower and deck mounted soak bath arranged around a wild swim lake. A deep relaxation space is another perfect example of where privacy should be a priority for design. This can be easily achieved with individual beds and elegant, sheer curtains dividing spaces. Clever lighting design can also enhance the privacy element here.
Photo courtesy of The Spa at South Lodge
Related: The Newest Features in Spa Design for 2025
3. Wellness Experiences on the Gym Floor
There are many synergies between spa and fitness, but very few spas take advantage of this potential crossover. Assisted stretching is becoming a key element of a personal training session. In the coming year, you can expect to see more examples of gym spaces designed to accommodate stretch pods or wellness pods. Innovative work from Proverb, a lifestyle brand, has revolutionized this space. At The Grain Store, we recently designed a stretch pod featuring Proverb that has been a hit with members and has set the scene for more to come in the future.
Photo courtesy of The Grain Store
4. Social Wellness Clubs
The rise of social wellness club spaces from New York to LA and London to Melbourne has set a precedent for social inclusivity in spa design. What does this mean for spa design in 2025 and beyond? Guests expect spaces where they can congregate, chat and connect, not only with friends and family, but also to make new connections with other guests or members.
This will be driving a lot of spa design in the future, as spas aim to capture the zeitgeist. Social areas and beautiful lounges that draw on nature’s elements are key here. They need to be cocooning and offer a contemporary look, with super comfy seating and hidden nooks. Memberships are also looking for multipurpose spaces where they can also catch up on emails, as the work from home (or anywhere) trend is here to stay.
Photo courtesy of Calcot & Spa
5. Color of the Year
Color will always be a key element of the spas we create (we virtually never opt for a monochrome scheme). Color is such an important element in the creation of a mood or tone, and a key part of the spa experience. We note that Pantone Color of the year 2025 is "Mocha Mousse," a mellow brown with "inherent richness and sensorial warmth that extends further into our desire for comfort and the indulgence of simple pleasures." We certainly agree with this choice as a perfect backdrop to a comforting and indulgent spa experience with strong links to nature.
Color is such an important element in the creation of a mood or tone, and a key part of the spa experience.Photo courtesy of Elveden Forest Aqua Sana
Sparcstudio is a privately owned spa and interior design practice that specializes in the creation of award-winning Spa, Fitness, Wellness and Hotel facilities. NEWH voted the team Top ID company 2022 by NEWH and also included the Top 25 UK interior designers in the UK.
