.png)
Clear Nordic Spa creates a serene and reflective escape
Clear Nordic Spa is a modern, semi-private spa experience designed for those seeking a deeper commitment to mental and physical wellness. Their vision was to create a space that immerses guests in a Japandi and Nordic-inspired retreat, offering a sense of serenity, reflection, and euphoria.
Holland was tasked with bringing this vision to life by designing a space that not only transported guests but also ensured a quiet and tranquil environment. A modern, minimalist approach was taken, using carefully curated materials and limited furnishings to maintain a sense of openness and simplicity.
Makarena Alvarez
Emma Bokenfohr
Project Start Date: March 2024
Project Completion Date: July 2024
Square Footage: + / - 3800
The Challenge
Budget: Maintaining the design vision while ensuring efficiency and resourcefulness required a strategic approach.
Limited Natural Light: With the pools situated deep within the space, access to natural daylight was minimal, requiring innovative lighting solutions to create an inviting ambiance.
Guest Privacy: Preventing a "fishbowl effect" was essential to ensuring guests could fully immerse themselves in the spa experience without feeling observed.
Sound Management: Achieving a serene and quiet atmosphere was critical to enhancing relaxation and sensory engagement.
The Solution
Working closely with the client and partners, the project was carefully executed to ensure the design remained uncompromised while aligning with budget expectations.
Backlit framed acrylic panels were introduced to simulate windows, creating an inviting atmosphere with the illusion of natural light.
To enhance privacy and encourage a more individualized experience, Japanese-inspired wooden screens were strategically placed between pool areas, allowing guests to feel immersed in their own journey through the space.
The integration of a circular transition room, calibrated lighting levels, and music, all worked together to create a tranquil and immersive environment for guests.
The Human-Centred Lens
A holistic approach to design was a priority, with every detail carried throughout the space. A 'less is more' philosophy guided the process, ensuring that each element served a purpose in creating a serene and uncluttered environment.
The reception area was thoughtfully designed with ample seating to accommodate guests comfortably while preserving a sense of openness.
A lounge with a fireplace serves as a central gathering space, providing both warmth and a social element.
Careful attention was given to the floor plan, ensuring seamless movement throughout the space and an intuitive guest experience.
Lighting was another key consideration, with soft, warm illumination guiding visitors through the spa, reinforcing its calming and restorative atmosphere.
Key Features
Destination Design
To transport guests into a Japandi-Nordic experience, local materials and colours inspired by the Rocky Mountains were infused throughout the space. Stone greys, natural cedar wood, and plants were incorporated to create a sense of place and pay homage to the region’s natural beauty.
Lounge Connection
A window passthrough connected the lounge to the reception, allowing for smooth service while maintaining the spa’s calm and uninterrupted ambiance.
Brand Integration Through Colour
The original design featured a light and airy palette, but to better reflect the client’s brand identity, black accents were strategically incorporated, creating a striking contrast against the light wood.
Enhanced Light
With limited access to natural light, multiple strategies were used to create a soft, natural glow throughout the space. Backlit framed acrylic panels were placed to mimic windows, while carefully calibrated lighting design helped replicate the warmth and depth of natural light, ensuring an inviting and open atmosphere.
Results
Project Credits
Landlord: RioCan
Engineers: Hidi Group: Electrical – Effie Stamatis, Amira Nour, Mechanical – Jim Scott, Mazen Zaky
Contractors: Leading Edge Developments: Project Manager – Andrew Zelinskyi Site Superintendent – Chris Lindgren
Photographer: Chris Amat and Christina Yao
.jpg)
