From low-cost to luxury venues, wellness and eco-conscious stays remain the ideal pairing for guests who prefer natural over chemical, sustainable over wasteful and efficiency over excess.
With nature and health at the heart of these experiences, more venues are embracing what has become known as “wellness tourism”. Rather than being left behind, professionals in hotel management realise that there is a pressing need to design inviting holistic experiences that promote the physical and emotional wellbeing of guests.
To stand apart in this competitive sector, spa and pool facilities must be thoughtfully curated to integrate nature into their designs, materials and functions.
Install distinct spa and pool experiences rooted in nature
Hoteliers are constantly seeking new ways to differentiate themselves by designing outstanding wellness features that align with a hotel’s natural setting, brand and ethos. Spas, chemical-free swimming pools and wellness facilities are all highly sought after facilities. Whether they’re in a peaceful, remote and rural setting or in an elevated place overlooking pristine beaches, the environmental setting of a hotel can offer up inspiration and be the impetus for how a hotelier plans the leisure facilities, interiors and accommodation.
However, although it’s important to be mindful of costs and space, it’s valuable to consider configurations that are aesthetic, high-end and maximise the guest’s relaxation experience. Hoteliers might consider multi-functional swim spas that offer both exercise and relaxation benefits year-round, providing a luxurious and space-efficient wellness feature.
Equally, interiors and treatment rooms can be furnished with bespoke fixtures and fittings that perfectly reflect a venue’s enviable proximity to a beach or tropical garden. Planning and delivering unique spa and pool facilities with distinct experiences that marry in with natural settings are achievable. They also successfully communicate a resort’s commitment to prioritising its guests, its style and all its sustainable credentials.
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By GlobalDataWelcome nature inside with biophilic designs
Continuing on this theme, a venue can blend wellness amenities inside and outside by following the principles of biophilic design. Bringing nature into hotel environments has emerged as a prominent design trend, with hoteliers eager to transform their venues into more natural and inviting spaces. Properties can demonstrate a commitment to landscape design and environmental aesthetics by curating spa and swimming facilities around biophilic design principles.
Guests increasingly appreciate attractive wellness areas with interiors that incorporate natural elements that enhance feelings of health, vitality and wellbeing. Where possible, position windows and open-air spaces that can maximise stunning views and that seamlessly draw in natural light to connect further to natural surroundings. Properties in mountain settings may feature floor-to-ceiling windows that frame dramatic landscapes, while coastal hotels might incorporate infinity pools that fuse with the sea’s horizon.
Similarly, look to nature for inspiration to boost experiences by making the most of a lush, green location with standout outdoor landscaping, strategic pool installation and spa positioning. Construct accessible yoga or swim facilities that align with a hotel’s natural footprint, with well-lit outdoor exercise zones or spa combinations that mirror natural seascapes. Organize outdoor yoga classes on sandy beaches and mindfulness lessons in lighter spaces to evoke a serene and sanctuary-like zone.
Likewise, make use of natural resources and if a property is close to springs or salt water, integrate this into spas and fountains for mood-boosting effects that are both appealing and relaxing. The soothing sounds of running water are renowned for their therapeutic benefits, providing a sense of calm and rejuvenation across wellness facilities. Hotels can pay particular attention to swimming pool lighting, with artificial illumination ideal for both indoor and outdoor pool settings. Natatorium lighting is especially effective for boosting visibility, safety, and aesthetics across various swim and spa facilities.
Build inclusive facilities with therapeutic benefits
Guests look for high-quality fitness and spa experiences or mixed-use facilities for a sense of community, such as fitness classes, recovery zones and unique initiatives that connect guests with a hotel brand. Prioritising the health and safety of guests will necessarily follow stringent hygiene and clean-air policies. Wellness features are also therapeutic with cutting-edge pool designs that incorporate technology for temperature control, lighting effects and even mood-based settings.
Yet, whether it’s a hydrotherapy pool or a plush gym suite, the designs need to support guest’s individual and collective needs. Doing so will position a venue as being a responsible destination. Although inspired by nature, venues must design inclusive health, leisure and wellness amenities that accommodate every person’s needs.
Key points for maintaining and improving accessibility might include:
- installing ramps and automatic doors
- widening doors, having accessible bathrooms with grab bars and proper wheelchair access
- implementing braille, tactile maps and signs in simple language
- using high-contrast colours and good lighting
- training staff on disability awareness and communication techniques
Integrate holistic designs for brand-affirming results
The most effective wellness designs engage and integrate acoustics, aromatherapy, tactile experiences, and even taste elements across wellness offerings and experiences. This comprehensive approach creates immersive and natural environments where guests can disconnect from everyday stressors.
Materials selection plays a crucial role, with natural stone, sustainable woods, and organic textiles contributing to the authentic feel of these spaces. The careful balance of temperature, humidity, and air circulation can boost the guest experience whether that’s an energetic activity in the gym or a relaxing meditation class.
Overall, having aligned fitness and wellness spaces not only signal a long-term investment in user experiences, they strengthen brand perception and deepen customer loyalty. This holistic approach is a strategic investment towards wellness, and can deliver and drive forward unprecedented guest satisfaction which, in turn, results in repeat bookings and enhances a brand’s visibility.
As wellness continues to drive consumer decisions in the hospitality sector, properties that authentically integrate natural elements into their design and programming gain distinct advantages. These thoughtfully designed environments not only attract health-conscious guests but also command premium prices while building loyal customer bases who return specifically for these unique and rejuvenating experiences immersed in nature.
About the author: Annie Button is a freelance writer based in the UK. She specialises in business development, sustainability, digital trends, marketing, and HR.
