PRINCIPLES IN SPA DEVELOPMENT - VALS THERMAL BATHS

PRINCIPLES IN SPA DEVELOPMENT - WALTZ THERMAL BATHS

Last updated in 07 Apr 2023

Image result for vals thermae — Photo: Vals Thermal Baths. Source: https://www.dezeen.com/2016/09/25/peter-zumthor-therme-vals-spa-baths-photography-fernando-guerra/

In previous article I have written about the principles to keep in mind when designing a spa. In this article, therefore, I propose an analysis of some thermal spas in Europe, which maintain all these principles, which focus on the relationship with water and the relationship between the consumer and the environment, creating an environment conducive to relaxation. The thermal baths to which I refer are known as the Vals thermal baths in Graubünden (Switzerland). They were designed by the architect Peter Zumthor.

In this case, the main source of inspiration was the proximity to a stone quarry, which had consequences in the materiality proposed for these thermal baths. The architect proposed the use of quartz as the main building material, and the dark atmosphere created inside is reminiscent of the shape of a cave or quarry. The link with nature is much more complex than that, the walls of the rooms being made by successive layers of quartz of different sizes, similar to a section cut through the earth. The topography of the terrain is another element that contributed to the concept of the Thermes. The architect proposes that the tectonically imagined volume should rise out of the earth, discreetly, without disturbing the natural landscape, which is why the upper part is covered with vegetation.

The feeling of relaxation and comfort is achieved through the connection with all the senses, so smell, sound and color also have a particularly important role to play in the design of spaces

The facilities on offer include flower baths and sound baths. The image of colors chosen from a relatively dark palette, but in natural tones, is matched by the complementary materiality. The architect proposes the use of concrete, terrazzo slabs, bronze, black natural leather and mahogany wood, but the most symbolically charged connection of all is with water. The Swiss city has thermal water resources, which is the main reason for this investment. The connection with water, in a general sense, is evident from the etymology of the word spaTherefore, it can also be observed in this architectural project that water is the main subject, always in contrast with the environment in which it is located. It can be seen in the following images how the focus is always on water, as it is the resource that underpins both the architectural concept and the range of treatments and activities on offer wellness.