Press | Blu Spas Inc. | Spa Industry Consultants

press | asia fit | november december 1999

The New Resort Spa
-CARY COLLIER CEO Collier & Collier Spas

Over the years of island hopping, being blessed with living in Bali and working on over 45 spa projects in 12 countries, I have given a lot of thought to 'dream' spas. My favourite spa location is an island by the ocean with mountain rainforests nearby. Soaking in seawater and in springs with a waterfall in the background makes the magic complete.

A recipe for the ideal spa: The location has been well thought out - no people, no traffic. It is quiet. The resort and spa arc nestled on a hillside sloping towards the ocean. A winding pathway through bamboo, rice fields and garden meadows leads to a scenic overlook laced with pools fed by natural springs and waterfal1s. Regardless of where you are the views are majestic. The architecture and landscape are in harmony with the environment and native culture. One might sense you have been invited to a welcoming island village community. The staff have a natural grace and charm that assure you will be cared for.

A key element is that the resort and spa embrace each other. The Spa has an identity - people talk about it with sincere pride. What those of us in the industry might calI "the spa experience" begins in the villa. With a garden pavilion, plunge pool, outdoor shower and ocean views from every spot, the villa defines the bliss of a private spa. You need never leave the villa if you so choose - a number of spa services are available here.

Restaurants and room service include delicious light and fresh cuisine. The chef has created his own organic garden and supports local farmers and fisherman for what he cannot grow or catch.

The Spa has several persona1ities: HiIlside spa villas; beach treehouses; thatched huts by the waterfal1 and springs. At each, one can enjoy a variety of traditional spa treatments and water elements derived from the island culture - simple and organic, fun and relaxing. One of our company's mantras is to create the ultimate "sensory sanctuary."

The placement of structures and features are highlighted beautifully from sunrise through to sunset. At any spa entrance or area, the sounds, scents, colours and views put one at peace. Indoor spaces integrate with outdoor nature.

The spa has the appropriate balance between active and passive facilities and services - i.e. waterfall bath and massage, rainforest walks and so on. The spa is a gathering place. Guests become eager participants in the sharing of its treasures.

The main theme: you can be safe here, you do not have to do anything, just take time for yourself and be cared for. So relax and unwind.

Planning the dream spa

A. Concept Development :

. Location study: light and shade, climate, pests, health (disease), safety, access to services - water, power, communications, drainage, landscape, environmental impact and solutions

. Study of local culture

. Market study: financial feasibility, facility planning, conceptual spa themes

. Project costs: staffing/ training, operations

. Strategy, flow and challenges: i.e. cultural or legal viewpoint on unisex and/or private gender areas; ceremonial blessings required before construction ground-breaking; what colours, shapes, words, etc are offensive to local culture; if area has a history of malaria; main power source by generators; reception staff must be able to speak Japanese and so on.

B. Design Development

.Design detailing:interior schemes; mechanical/electrical;acoustics; audio/visual; furniture, fixtures and equipment; lighting; communication and operating systems (hardware/ software)

. Spa programming; product development; water features; serv ice standards; facility maintenance

. Print collaterals, graphics and signage: i.e. materials and finishes from local resources; power stabilisers required for equipment; water filtration; spa treatments use local oils, herbs and flowers combined with village massage traditions - adaptation strategy for resort use; images for print materials and specified fabrics from artistic renderings of village dance and bathing; signage from local carved stone etc.

I am always amused when the resort owner or manager has this comment on planning the spa: "What's the big deal? A few massage tables, a bottle of oil and we're in business!" Everyone is surprised at the detail required to achieve "simple and elegant" - a favoured expression of world-class resort spas.

My dream spa reminds me of a place that got it right - the Four Seasons Jimbaran Bay, Bali. If you want a memory, go there and enjoy.

A spa has a noble purpose - to take care of people, to provide a haven of peace from what is outside the spa doors, to change lives, to give the knowledge and the example for growing and resting the precious body, mind and spirit.

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