OBSIDIAN OASIS - holistic wellness in spaces
While entering the spa, the darkness shuts down your thoughts and immerses you fully in the present moment. With darkness surrounding you, you embrace the other senses. With every step, your feet are grounded in the feeling of the raw slate texture. You can hear calming music at the end of the corridor. It guides you forward.
As you walk, your eyes begin to adjust to the darkness, and you start noticing the shapes and textures around you. With the bend in the corridor, you feel the space become twice as large, preparing you for the ritual of the spa. You continue to walk, letting go of any thoughts or distractions, and staying fully present in the moment.
As you reach the end of the corridor you find a hidden safe space to change into a fluffy robe. Then you are walking towards the retail area filled with an array of products carefully arranged on the shelves. There is a diffuser to evoke the sense of smell. After the completion of the spa ritual, the therapist shows you which products they used for the ritual and suggests products so you can continue treatment at home.
The ritual begins with a sound bath meditation and relaxation massage with gentle soap and salt. Then the client moves to the shower to cleanse their skin and then to the infrared sauna to relax their muscles. There is an ice fountain to refresh yourself and feel the contrast of the temperature while melting in the sauna. After the sauna, the body is ready for the heart of the spa ritual—the massage, which starts and ends with a sound bath. Following the massage, the individual may receive other soothing treatments such as a facial, a scalp massage, or a plunge into the swimming pool outside.
Using proper zoning and dividing the space into functional areas, we enhance privacy while creating the illusion of spaciousness. The floor plan is arranged to navigate us instinctively as we move throughout the space during the ritual.
The final step is a period of rest on a chaise lounge, watching nature and drinking herbal tea, during which the client can reflect on the experience and savor the feeling of relaxation and rejuvenation.
The color palette is determined by the fact that in daily life, our eyesight is the most overwhelmed of the senses. Darker colors calm our eyes and heighten the other senses. This is a spa where you may—and even have to–touch every surface to experience the differences in texture.
“Obsidian is a naturally occurring volcanic glass that is usually dark in color and has a smooth, glossy appearance, which fits well with the idea of a luxurious spa. The word "oasis" suggests a place of refuge and rejuvenation, making it an appropriate addition to the name of a spa.” - Nataly Karavay
