Design trends are ever-evolving, often shaped by cultural influences, technological advancements, and consumer preferences. While it can be tempting to chase the "next big thing," authenticity and quality execution will always be in style. The key is not to simply follow trends but to take inspiration from them and create spaces that resonate with people on a deeper level.
In 2024, spa interior design is embracing themes that reflect a connection to nature, a preference for classic or minimalist aesthetics, and a focus on wellness-centered environments. This article will explore some of the most prominent design trends in the spa industry, featuring insights from leading designers who are setting the standard for these spaces.
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Wellness Design
Wellness design goes beyond the services offered in a spa; it's about creating environments that inherently support the health and well-being of those who enter. This approach considers everything from the materials used to the layout and lighting, all aimed at enhancing the guest experience from the moment they walk through the door.
Today, wellness is synonymous with luxury. Consumers are increasingly seeking out spaces that nurture both their physical and emotional well-being. Design choices in wellness-centered interiors often include the use of healthy materials, such as low-VOC paints and finishes, the incorporation of natural light, soothing color palettes, and enhanced ventilation systems.
André Fu, the Hong Kong-based architect known for designing Claridge’s first-ever spa in London, emphasizes the emotional impact of wellness architecture: “My personal view on wellness architecture revolves around the essence of emotions and the feeling of stillness when a space immediately makes you feel that you are being cocooned into an intimate world of comfort.”
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Japandi Design
Japandi is a minimalist interior design style that merges Japanese and Scandinavian design elements, creating spaces that are calm, welcoming, and functional. The word "Japandi" is a blend of "Japanese" and "Scandi," reflecting the harmonious fusion of these two design philosophies.
Japandi design is characterized by clean lines, natural materials, and a warm, neutral color palette. It often incorporates elements of nature, both in the materials used and in the way spaces are arranged to feel connected to the outdoors. Luxurious textures and functional objects are also key components, contributing to an overall sense of simplicity and serenity.
As sustainability becomes increasingly important in interior design, Japandi has gained popularity for its eco-conscious approach. It's particularly appealing to those who value simplicity, functionality, and a deep connection to nature. Colin King, an acclaimed interior stylist and proponent of Japandi, describes this aesthetic to Vogue magazine as “a natural hybrid between two cultures that privilege minimalism and tranquility. It celebrates everyday beauty and a connection with nature.”
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Nature-Inspired Design
Nature-inspired design takes the connection to the outdoors one step further by blurring the boundaries between interior spaces and the natural world. This design approach seeks to seamlessly integrate natural and man-made elements, creating environments that feel like an extension of the landscape outside.
Designers who embrace this style often use organic shapes, such as curved walls or tiered pools, to evoke the fluidity and charm of natural forms. The goal is to create spaces that feel alive and vibrant, drawing inspiration from the natural world to enhance the guest experience.
The design studio Atelier Right Hub highlights this philosophy: "If we observe life carefully, we will find that straight lines are mostly found in man-made objects while natural objects are mostly curved. Whether it is mountains or rivers and streams, they are curved and full of changes and they have more charm and vitality than straight lines."
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Minimalist Design
Minimalism is a design philosophy that embraces simplicity, focusing on the essential elements to create spaces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. In a minimalist design, every item has a purpose, and the goal is to reduce clutter, allowing the space to breathe and the mind to relax. This approach is especially effective in spa environments, where the emphasis is on creating a serene and calming atmosphere.
Minimalist design also prioritizes quality over quantity. Instead of filling a space with numerous items, minimalism encourages the selection of a few high-quality pieces that serve both functional and aesthetic purposes. This might include a well-crafted piece of furniture, a single piece of art, or an architectural feature that draws the eye without overwhelming the senses.
David Chipperfield Architects is well known for having mastered a minimalist approach to design. The firm's best-known spa project is London's Akasha Holistic Wellbeing Centre. The spa called for a minimalist aesthetic that would feel both modern and ancient giving a calming and invigorating experience to guests.
Their minimalist-inspired work is described in Architectural Viva, explaining, “The materiality of these structures, whether made of concrete, stone, brick, or metal, consistently rewards the visitor with a powerful sense of identity and appropriateness, enforcing a pleasant feeling of minimalist luxury.”
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Neutrals
Neutral color palettes are a classic design choice that has found new life in contemporary spa interiors. These palettes, dominated by soothing hues like whites, creams, and soft grays, create serene environments that exude peace and tranquility. Neutrals can be incorporated in various ways, from wall colors and flooring to furniture and decor, helping to create a cohesive and inviting space.
High-quality materials are essential to executing a neutral-themed design, as they lend an air of elegance and sophistication. Seymour Designs advises, “Choose a neutral color palette dominated by soothing hues like whites, creams, and soft grays. These colors not only create a serene ambiance but also make the space appear more expansive and inviting. Incorporate sleek, contemporary furniture with clean lines to complement the minimalist theme.”
The 2024 spa interior design trends reflect a deep appreciation for nature, simplicity, and wellness. Whether through the serene minimalism of Japandi, the organic forms of nature-inspired design, or the calming effects of a neutral palette, these trends all share a common goal: to create spaces that feel authentic and genuinely good to be in. As we move forward, the focus remains on designing interiors that not only look beautiful but also support the well-being of those who experience them.
