"Barr and Wray offers the full package in spa design,” stated Banks, “we provide both interior and technical design and have been creating spa designs for 60 years, so we’ve got knowledge and experience in abundance and fully understand the process of designing a spa.”

The company provides a complete service, starting from concept design to construction documentation and post-contract supervision. Its service encompasses the entire spa, including wet areas, receptions, relaxation areas, changing rooms, treatment rooms and more.

“As a company, our most important design goal is that the flow of the spa must work,” he continued, “the final product should be a seamless journey transitioning the guests through the different zones and experiences of the spa.”

As Barr and Wray see it, it’s crucial the engineering and operational aspects are consistently integrated and thoroughly thought through during the design planning process.

“We appreciate a spa project is a complex and specialist endeavour which requires a specialist consultant. It’s no good having a great looking spa if all the engineering and operations don’t work,” said Banks. “We make sure all aspects are designed and integrated to create a cohesive final product.”

The company’s most recent design project was unveiled at the recently opened Jumeirah Talise Spa in Abu Dhabi, a 2,200sq m standalone spa with 15 treatment rooms situated in a modern building within the grounds of the Jumeirah Saadiyat Island Resort.

Barr and Wray produced a spa with separate-sex changing facilities, individual male and female wet lounges, a vitality pool, plunge pool, sauna, salt room and steamroom, as well as a rasul, ice fountain and experience showers and hammam with private scrub rooms.

Looking ahead, Banks believes spas and wellness facilities will be crucial in continuing the support of and emphasis on health and wellbeing in a post-pandemic world.

“I think this virus has brought into perspective the need to stay healthy in both body and mind, and in my opinion, a spa can only help you to achieve this.”

www.barrandwray.com