How to Design a Wellness Center and SPA: the Complete Technical Guide

Designing a wellness center requires careful planning and rigorous organization of spaces that goes beyond just the aesthetic aspect, ensuring a comfortable and functional environment for the user. It is essential to maintain a certain coherence among the different areas of the center, ensuring a natural flow that promotes relaxation and well-being.

In this focus, we will explore the various aspects of the design phase, enriching the discussion with practical examples, videos, renderings, and functional diagrams, to help you create a space that combines aesthetics and functionality. You will also have the opportunity to download a 3D model of a wellness center and SPA for free, created with 3D/BIM building design software. This model will allow you to visualize the project in a detailed and realistic way, offering you valuable insights for your future projects.

Try to obtain renders like those present in this article: download the 3D BIM model of the wellness center and spa project that I created and use it as a guide for your projects.

Wellness Center: Design and Architecture

Designing a wellness center and SPA represents a unique opportunity to create a space dedicated to relaxation and the recovery of physical and mental well-being. This process requires a holistic approach that integrates comfort, functionality, and aesthetics, paying particular attention to the organization of some fundamental areas:

• the entrance and reception area, which must be designed to impress and envelop the customer in a relaxing and pleasant atmosphere from the very first moment;
• the dressing rooms, which represent the most intimate and comfortable space where the wellness experience begins, and must be designed to offer privacy and comfort;
• the water paths, which evoke the connection with nature and promote a relaxing effect, essential for physical and mental well-being.

One of the most important aspects of design concerns attention to energy consumption, both direct (related to equipment) and indirect (air exchange, air conditioning, etc.). Furthermore, to ensure the success of a wellness center, the designer must never overlook:

• what is not seen, but is passively perceived: a correct distribution of functions;
• what allows for an ideal climate inside the center: the implementation of efficient technological systems;
• what surprises and enriches the emotional experience of the customer: an attractive design and aesthetics.

It is evident, therefore, that there are multiple aspects that must be evaluated to ensure the correct design of a wellness center, including:

• reference regulations;
• design and architecture;
• functional aspects;
• organization of internal spaces;
• interior design.

Let’s start by defining some essential guidelines for accurate and quality design.

How to design a wellness center | Top view

If you are interested in the design of commercial spaces, you can also read:

• Design of a supermarket, the technical guide
• Designing a clothing store
• Guide to designing a beauty salon

Wellness Center Design Guidelines and Requirements

The design of a wellness center must begin with a careful analysis of the client’s needs and the activities that will be offered. The spaces should be conceived to accommodate a variety of services and treatments, including areas for massages, rooms dedicated to specific treatments, therapeutic pools, saunas, functional changing rooms, and relaxation zones. The configuration of the spaces must respect ergonomic and flow principles, promoting relaxation and ensuring smooth circulation between different areas, thus creating a wellness pathway that stimulates a sense of calm and tranquility.

A well-structured design allows for maximizing the customer experience, minimizing noise and distractions, and optimizing intimacy and privacy in the more secluded areas, such as treatment rooms and changing rooms. Shared spaces, such as pools and relaxation areas, must be designed to ensure comfort and harmony, respecting the principles of ergonomics and design.

Some essential requirements to consider in the design of a wellness center include:

• the distribution of spaces: the layout of the center must be designed to create an environment that fosters relaxation and intimacy for clients, ensuring smooth and well-separated pathways between the different operational zones. Treatment areas must be isolated from noise and external traffic, while common areas should offer an atmosphere of conviviality and serenity;
• energy efficiency: the use of sustainable technologies is essential to minimize operational costs and reduce the environmental impact of the center. LED lighting systems, low-consumption heating and cooling systems, water recovery, and solar panels for heating pools are just some of the solutions to integrate. Energy efficiency not only ensures economic savings but also communicates a commitment to sustainability, which is increasingly appreciated by customers;
• accessibility: it is essential that all spaces are accessible to people with disabilities or reduced mobility. Current regulations require specific solutions to eliminate architectural barriers, such as ramps, elevators, adapted restrooms, and spacious corridors. Beyond being a regulatory obligation, accessibility represents a commitment to inclusivity, enhancing the experience of every client, regardless of their physical abilities.

Taking these elements into account, the design of a wellness center should not be limited to aesthetic aspects but should be based on principles of comfort, sustainability, and functionality, to ensure an immersive and rejuvenating experience. It is also crucial to ensure compliance with current regulations. In the next paragraph, we will focus on the regulatory aspects related to the design of a wellness center, highlighting the laws and regulations that must be adhered to in order to ensure compliance and safety for the entire structure.

Reference Regulations for Designing a Wellness Center

When designing a wellness center, it is necessary to refer to multiple regulatory aspects, ranging from regulating the functional and organizational characteristics of the structure (lighting, indoor temperature, air quality, etc.) to ensuring the safety of users and workers who inhabit these spaces (escape routes, worker safety and health, etc.).

Wellness Centers: Design and Architecture

When addressing the architectural design of a wellness center, it is important to pay particular attention to the environmental context, the use of materials, and the creation of a sensory experience that begins even outside the structure.

The spaces should be designed to convey a sense of calm and welcome, with a design that favors the harmony of forms and integration with the landscape. Natural elements such as water, light, and greenery are often integral to the design, both for their aesthetic qualities and for their relaxing and rejuvenating effects. For example, the use of transparent glass facades allows for a visual connection between the interiors and the external landscape, creating a continuum between nature and the building, while the use of wood and stone surfaces reinforces the bond with the natural environment.

Another fundamental aspect in the architecture of a wellness center is the relationship between shared spaces and private spaces. The design must ensure smooth and well-defined pathways that lead the user through different zones with a natural transition between common areas, such as receptions or pools, and more intimate and private spaces, such as massage rooms or areas for private treatments. The design of volumes, heights, and openings plays a key role in creating these atmospheres. Openings positioned in strategic points, such as skylights and large windows, favor the entry of natural light, while the curved or soft shapes of the structures can promote a sense of relaxation and welcome.

Integration with the landscape is a common theme in the design of many modern wellness centers. A successful example in this area is represented by Therme Vals in Switzerland, designed by Peter Zumthor. The structure of this thermal building is carved into the mountain and blends with it, creating a continuous dialogue between architecture and the surrounding environment. This type of approach not only enhances the sensory experience of guests but also strengthens the sustainability of the project, reducing the visual impact on the territory and improving energy efficiency through the use of natural resources.

Fundamental to the design of a wellness center is also the choice of materials, which plays an essential role in conveying a sense of naturalness and well-being. Local and sustainable materials, such as stone and wood, are used not only for aesthetic reasons but also to ensure thermal and acoustic comfort in the spaces. Their combination can influence the perception of space, with warm and tactile surfaces contributing to creating a welcoming atmosphere.

To ensure an integrated and coordinated approach among the various elements of the project, it is essential to rely on advanced tools, such as a BIM-based modeling software. This tool allows for accurate and detailed management of the design of spaces, improving integration and coherence among architectural, plant, and structural aspects. Additionally, BIM allows for advanced simulations and analyses, such as energy analyses, which contribute to optimizing the sustainability of the project. Thanks to BIM, it is possible to monitor the entire life cycle of the construction, reducing costs and errors, and ensuring a high level of efficiency in all phases of design, construction, and management of the work.

Design and architecture: wellness center and SPA- rendering produced with Edificius

Functional Guidelines for the Wellness Center and SPA Project

Within the project of a wellness center, there are many and varied functions that can be included and addressed, depending on availability and objectives.

We can categorize these functions into:

• wellness (sauna, steam room, massage room, etc.);
• fitness (gym);
• accessory services (changing room, restroom);
• customer services (bar, restaurant, reception, etc.).

Let’s go into detail about these, which are considered essential functions in a wellness center project.

Sauna

The sauna is an environment, typical of northern European regions, that allows for a wellness treatment by utilizing high temperatures and low humidity. There are no minimum or maximum measurements to adhere to (unless specified by local regulations); however, it is advisable to ensure a minimum area of 1.20 m² for each person present in the environment.

What to pay the most attention to are:

• temperature, which usually ranges between 70°C and 90°C;
• relative humidity between 10% and 20%;
• proper air exchange.

Additional characteristics lie in the materials used for the cladding and seating: natural woods without chemical treatments, absolutely avoiding plastic and metallic materials (which can be harmful to health at high temperatures).

How to design a wellness center | Render wellness area with a view towards the entrance

Turkish bath

The Turkish bath is a closed space where a beneficial treatment is carried out using steam.

Generally, the Turkish bath should be installed in an environment that has a minimum height of at least 2.40 m (but in any case, it is always advisable to consult the local regulations) and, in any case, sized in such a way as to allow for ventilation capable of dissipating the heat coming from the upper part of the Turkish bath, thus ensuring its proper functioning.

The size of the internal space should be regulated in relation to the number of people who may be present at the same time, and it must be such as to guarantee a comfortable and pleasant use.

Also for the Turkish bath, as already for the sauna, fundamental aspects are temperature and humidity value, which must meet certain characteristics:

• temperature between 25°C and 50°C;
• relative humidity around 100%.

It is advisable to also include a shower head for rinsing the body during the session. Finally, the water drainage can be connected to the white water network since, in general, there are no toxic substances present.

Emotional shower

The emotional shower is a massaging shower characterized, generally, by different jets of water associated with lights, aromas, and music: it represents a moment when the benefits of hydrotherapy, chromotherapy, aromatherapy, and music therapy are triggered.

The dimensions can be comparable to those of classic showers, although, to improve comfort conditions, it is preferable to provide more space and not stick to minimum measurements (the classic 0.90 x 0.90 m).

Kneipp path (vascular path)

The Kneipp path is a vascular treatment that involves walking within basins with a rough bottom (generally stones) with alternating hot/cold water jets (or basins) at knee height.

There are no preset measurements for the basins: the dimensions depend a lot on the space available. An essential aspect, however, is represented by the bottom of the path, which must consist of a rough surface to promote plantar stimulation (the purpose of the treatment itself).

Massage room

The massage room is the place where the client receives treatments on their body.

In designing such environments, it is necessary to consider not only the presence of the user who benefits from the service but also the authorized personnel to carry out the various treatments: thus, a correct sizing must also take into account the minimum spaces necessary for the latter, usually indicated within the various regulations.

How to design a wellness center | Render wellness area with a view towards the massage room

Thermal water pool with hydro massage

The pool is the centerpiece of a wellness center because it is typically around it that the relaxation area is concentrated. The dimensions, as in the case of the Kneipp path, depend on the available space, always needing to ensure a condition of comfort. The water temperature should be between 36°C and 38°C.

Organization of indoor spaces

For the design of a wellness center, the organization of the space and pathways is essential: thus, the internal arrangement of elements is of vital importance and can jeopardize the entire facility.

How to design a wellness center | Building plan and identification of functions

Given this premise, it is understood how prioritizing the identification of the target audience is essential in the design of the wellness center: it is based on this that a coherent space and the conditions for well-being and relaxation will be created.

In this regard, it is important to define whether the center is independent or supports another structure, such as a hotel: in the latter case, it will be necessary to further distinguish whether the service is offered exclusively to hotel guests or is also open to external individuals.

This is why the target audience decisively influences the distribution of spaces and, above all, the entrances.

Once the independence of the structure is defined, it is possible to identify the entrance, a fundamental space where the first interaction with the customer takes place. It can be organized to host not only the reception with the cash register but also a waiting room and an area dedicated to the display and sale of products.

Beyond the entrance, the wellness area should be positioned for direct or indirect access:

• direct if the entrance area has direct contact with the spaces of the wellness area, which also includes the changing rooms;
• indirect if the entrance and wellness area are separated by a filter area that can be represented by the changing rooms themselves.

The wellness area must be organized in such a way as to ensure the psycho-physical well-being of the client, also utilizing the concepts derived from the design of Roman baths, thus incorporating the themes of calidarium, frigidarium, and tepidarium.

How to design a wellness center | Section

These three areas must be arranged to facilitate the transition from a warmer area to a cooler area, toning the body and providing a sense of well-being. This arrangement should also include elements that utilize hydrotherapy, chromotherapy, aromatherapy, and music therapy techniques through the use of, for example, emotional showers, thermal water pools, whirlpool tubs, or Kneipp paths.

Additional areas may also be provided, such as a fitness area, massage room, and even a space dedicated to dining and bar services, directly connected to the structure, in order to ensure relaxation and well-being.

Interior design concepts for a wellness center

As we have already observed in the article on “How to design a hair salon”, in activities dedicated to the care and well-being of individuals, the organization of spaces plays a fundamental role in optimizing the customer experience and improving the functionality of environments. This principle is equally valid for wellness centers, where proper space planning contributes not only to operational efficiency but also to the quality of relaxation offered.

However, it is not enough to focus solely on the functional aspect: it is equally important to care for the interior design, as it directly influences the atmosphere and emotions that customers experience during their stay.

Let us analyze, therefore, the fundamental elements to consider in the interior design of a wellness center, in order to create a welcoming environment capable of offering customers a pleasant and relaxing experience:

1. color choice: colors have a strong impact on mood and perception of spaces. For a wellness center, it is advisable to use shades that promote relaxation and well-being. Neutral and natural colors such as beige, light gray, sage green, or soft blue are ideal because:
   • they create a calm and welcoming atmosphere;
   • they evoke nature, enhancing the feeling of tranquility;
   • they are not visually dominant and contribute to a balanced and harmonious visual experience;
2. lighting: lighting is a crucial element in generating the right atmosphere in a spa. For an environment that inspires relaxation, the following should be preferred:
   • soft and warm lights, capable of creating a sense of intimacy and comfort. A light that is too intense or cold can be disturbing;
   • adjustable lighting, so that the intensity of the light can be varied according to the time of day or the proposed activities (for example, soft light for massages or relaxing treatments);
   • natural light sources or candles, which introduce a suggestive element and amplify the sense of serenity;
3. natural materials: using natural materials in the design of a wellness center strengthens the bond with the surrounding environment and enhances the multisensory experience. Among the most suitable materials are:
   • wood: perfect for coverings, flooring, and furniture, wood adds warmth to spaces and a sense of connection with nature;
   • stone: both in its raw and polished forms, stone conveys solidity and purity. It can be used for wall coverings or to create decorative details;
   • bamboo: in addition to being aesthetically pleasing and sustainable, bamboo brings an exotic and natural touch that integrates perfectly with environments dedicated to relaxation;
4. connection between indoor and outdoor spaces: in wellness centers, it is essential to maintain a visual and sensory continuity between the inside and the outside. This can be achieved through:
   • large windows or openings that allow natural light to filter in, creating a sense of openness and merging with the surrounding nature;
   • natural decorative elements such as plants, fountains, or green walls that bring nature indoors and foster a deep sense of well-being;
5. sensory experience: the goal of good design is to stimulate the senses and facilitate a total immersion in well-being. To achieve this, one can introduce:
   • textures pleasant to the touch, such as soft fabric coverings and rugs that invite walking barefoot;
   • natural scents: diffusing relaxing essences like lavender, eucalyptus, or chamomile enhances psychophysical well-being and strengthens the identity of the place;
   • natural sounds: the use of fountains or sound diffusers that reproduce flowing water, birdsong, or a gentle breeze creates a calm and harmonious environment.

Natural SPA Interior Design solutions

A well-designed SPA should make the most of natural resources, creating an environment capable of stimulating all the senses and promoting a deep relaxation experience. The use of natural elements in interior design not only enriches the aesthetics of the space but also has a concrete impact on the psychophysical well-being of users. Below, we explore some key aspects for effectively integrating nature into SPA design.

1. plants and flowers – aesthetic and functional well-being: introducing plants and flowers into SPA spaces is a solution that goes beyond mere embellishment. Plants not only enhance aesthetics but also play an active role in improving air quality and creating a serene and welcoming environment. For example:
   • lavender and aloe vera: in addition to being decorative elements, these plants are known for their relaxing and purifying properties. Lavender, with its calming scent, is often used in relaxation areas or in rooms dedicated to massages, to promote mental relaxation. Aloe vera, on the other hand, has purifying abilities and improves air quality, making it ideal for environments like saunas or Turkish baths, where breathing is important;
   • tropical plants and green walls: in larger environments, tropical plants such as ficus or ferns can be introduced, evoking feelings of exoticism and tranquility. Green walls can also be used to create relaxation corners immersed in nature or to delineate different functional areas within the SPA, creating a natural backdrop that helps isolate guests from visual distractions;
2. water elements – peace and natural continuity: water is one of the essential elements in any SPA, not only for its physical presence in pools or whirlpools but also for its impact on a sensory and atmospheric level. Some practical examples of how to integrate it include:
   • fountains: small fountains located in relaxation areas or receptions can add a calming effect thanks to the gentle sound of flowing water. For example, a fountain with river stones can serve as a focal point in a waiting area, helping to create a serene atmosphere from the moment of entry;
   • artificial waterfalls or internal streams: these elements can be integrated into walls or along pedestrian paths within the SPA. A small waterfall flowing in a secluded corner can enhance the sense of continuity between the indoor and outdoor environment, as well as contribute to air purification and natural cooling of the space;
   • natural immersion tubs: if space allows, it is possible to create outdoor natural water tubs, surrounded by rocks and vegetation, offering clients a unique experience of immersion in nature, as if they were in a natural hot spring;
3. natural lighting and connection with the outside: natural light plays a central role in creating a relaxing environment. To make the most of it, solutions that maximize light intake from the outside can be adopted:
   • large windows: they allow for a visual connection between the indoor space and the surrounding natural environment. For example, a massage room with a view of a zen garden or an internal courtyard with lush plants can create a sense of openness and tranquility;
   • glass roofs or skylights: in relaxation areas or treatment rooms, the use of glass roofs or skylights can let natural light in from above, making the environment brighter and improving the mood of clients. This effect is particularly beneficial during the morning or sunset when the light is softer and warmer;
4. acoustics and natural materials – a relaxing sound environment: acoustics is another fundamental factor in a SPA, as unwanted noises can easily disturb the relaxing atmosphere. Using natural materials with sound-absorbing properties helps improve the sound quality of environments:
   • cork or bamboo panels: these materials not only give a natural touch to the environment but are also excellent sound absorbers, ideal for reducing echo or noises coming from other rooms;
   • walls covered in wood or stone: they not only evoke a sense of natural tranquility but also contribute to creating an acoustically comfortable environment. For example, walls made of raw stone placed in a relaxation room not only enhance aesthetics but also reduce sound reverberation, allowing clients to immerse themselves in silence or the gentle sounds of water;
5. aromatherapy and natural scents: a often overlooked but fundamental element is the use of natural scents, which stimulate the sense of smell and complete the sensory experience:
   • essential oil diffusers: using essential oils like lavender, chamomile, or eucalyptus in room diffusers can create a calming effect, contributing to a regenerating atmosphere. Diffusers can be placed in entrance areas, massage rooms, or saunas, creating an olfactory continuity that guides the client through every part of the wellness journey;
   • fresh herbs: the presence of aromatic plants such as mint or rosemary in strategic points not only beautifies the spaces but releases light and natural fragrances that enrich the experience.

Original Design Ideas for Wellness Centers and SPA

To distinguish a wellness center or SPA from the competition, it is essential to focus on original and creative design solutions that can offer clients an experience that goes beyond simple relaxation. Here are some ideas that can make a difference:

• thematic and cultural spaces: integrating themes related to nature and cultural traditions can significantly enrich the experience within a SPA, making it unique and engaging. The biophilia approach involves, for example, incorporating natural elements such as plants, stones, and wood, which create a visual and sensory connection with the external environment. The use of green walls, indoor gardens, and sustainable materials not only enhances the design but also promotes a deep sense of well-being and serenity. An original idea could be to create thematic spaces inspired by the four elements (earth, water, air, and fire), each with a specific design and atmosphere:
  • earth: an environment characterized by natural materials and warm colors, ideal for relaxing treatments or massages with essential oils;
  • water: spaces with fountains, pools, or internal waterfalls that evoke the flow of water, perfect for hydro massages and aquatic paths;
  • air: bright, airy, and open environments, with light tones and sheer curtains, dedicated to meditation or yoga practices;
  • fire: more intimate and warm areas, with fireplaces or candles, suitable for heat treatments such as saunas or steam baths.

In addition to natural elements, it is possible to design areas inspired by different wellness traditions, such as a Finnish sauna, a Turkish hammam, or a room dedicated to the Japanese onsen ritual. This can offer authentic and distinctive experiences, increasing the cultural appeal of the SPA and diversifying treatment options;

• sensory design: the interior design of a SPA must engage all the senses to create a complete and memorable experience. The use of dynamic lighting, for example, allows for adjusting the intensity and color of the light according to the time of day or the type of treatment offered. Warm and soft lights in massage rooms promote relaxation, while brighter lights can be used in socializing or fitness areas. Similarly, the use of natural materials and textures such as raw stone, bamboo, linen, and untreated wood enriches the sensory experience, creating a deeper connection with nature and contributing to user comfort;
• sustainability: in SPA design, the integration of sustainable solutions is increasingly requested, not only to reduce environmental impact but also to improve the quality of spaces. The use of vertical gardens and green roofs not only beautifies aesthetics but also has beneficial effects on air quality and thermal insulation. These elements, in addition to being visually pleasing, can improve energy efficiency and create additional relaxation spaces. Another effective solution is the implementation of water recovery systems, which allow for collecting and recycling rainwater for irrigating green spaces or for non-potable uses within the SPA, thus contributing to an overall reduced water consumption;
• multifunctional and flexible spaces: finally, in modern design, it is essential to foresee spaces that can adapt to different needs and functions. The use of movable walls and flexible configurations allows for quickly transforming environments, creating spaces that can be used for both individual treatments and group activities. For example, a massage room can be easily converted into a space for yoga or meditation sessions. Additionally, designing multipurpose spaces that can be used for multiple purposes, such as conference rooms that can be transformed into relaxation zones or fitness areas adaptable to group lessons, improves efficiency and space usage, maximizing the return on investment for managers.

How to design a SPA bathroom

In recent years, there has been an increasing trend to recreate a SPA-like environment within one’s own home. The hustle and bustle of daily life drives many people to desire a home space dedicated to relaxation and well-being, and the bathroom can become the ideal place to turn this vision into reality.

To design a bathroom that offers the experience of a true SPA, it is important to take care of every detail, from the atmosphere to the organization of spaces. Here are some useful tips:

• choose natural materials and relaxing tones: prefer the use of natural materials such as wood and stone, which not only provide a pleasant appearance but also ensure durability and ease of maintenance. Choose neutral and relaxing tones, such as grays, beiges, and pastel greens, to reduce visual impact and create a sense of well-being. Also consider using matte finishes to minimize reflections and facilitate cleaning;
• install a multifunctional shower or bathtub: plan for the integration of a shower with a rain showerhead and hydro massage jets to enrich the user experience. If space allows, consider installing a freestanding bathtub as a focal point of the project. Ensure proper planning of plumbing and waterproofing to guarantee long-lasting and functional use. Consider adding additional functions, such as hydro massage, to increase comfort;
• create atmospheric lighting: lighting should be carefully designed to create a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere. It is advisable to implement adjustable lighting systems that allow for easily transitioning from functional lighting to softer, atmospheric lighting. The integration of energy-efficient LED spotlights and indirect lighting, such as light strips placed under furniture or around the bathtub, not only enhances the overall aesthetics of the space but also contributes to creating an intimate and welcoming atmosphere, promoting relaxation and well-being for users;
• provide additional wellness elements: make the bathroom more functional by adding small details such as a towel warmer, a wooden bench to sit on after the shower, or a space for essential oils and aromatherapy products, which can transform the bathroom into a true temple of well-being. Ensure that these elements are easily accessible and do not obstruct circulation in the space;
• opt for minimalist accessories and furnishings: design storage solutions that optimize space and reduce visual clutter. Use hidden cabinets and moisture-resistant shelves, also considering the use of materials that facilitate cleaning. Integrate technical accessories, such as fragrance diffusers and audio systems, to enrich the overall bathroom experience. Maintain a minimalist style to ensure order and functionality.

Wellness Center Desing: Floor Plans and Examples

Defining the layout of a wellness center is a crucial step that requires a deep understanding of the interactions between spaces and the experience that one wants to offer clients. The areas must be well connected to each other, while at the same time ensuring the necessary privacy, especially in areas dedicated to individual treatments.

Let’s see how to proceed with a practical example.

The designed wellness center develops following a linear path and dividing the entire structure into 3 large sections: this way, a clear separation between the entrance and the wellness area has been created, using the changing room as a filtering zone. This type of internal space organization was favored to give a clear direction to the client:

entrance to the structure / changing clothes in the changing room / enjoying the spaces of the wellness area

Given this macro division, a further schematization of functions within the space was then carried out, associating a series of environments that characterize each macro-category:

• in the first area there are the sales department and the reception;
• in the second area there are changing rooms (separated by gender), corridors, and associated showers, and finally the restrooms;
• in the third area, however, we have the sauna, emotional shower, Turkish bath, massage room, Kneipp path, pool with whirlpool area, and an external relaxation area.

How to design a wellness center | Arrangement of the three main areas

At a dimensional level, in compliance with the general regulations, areas have been created with the following characteristics:

• height of rooms with continuous presence ≥ 2.70 m;
• height of rooms intended for sanitary services ≥ 2.40 m;
• height of hallways ≥ 2.10 m;
• ventilation area ≥ 1/10 of the floor area;
• minimum area of the room (where a room is understood as the space enclosed by full-height walls) ≥ 9.00 m²;
• the area for the first workstation must be at least 15.00 m² and increased by 5.00 m² for each additional workstation;
• the floors of the establishment must have a smooth and washable surface;
• the walls of the establishment must be covered with smooth and easily washable material up to 2.00 m.

For further insights on the design of bathrooms for people with disabilities, I refer you to the article How to design an accessible toilet.

Design of a wellness center: download the 3D BIM model

Here, available for free download, are the technical documents (plans and sections) and the 3D model of the completed project.

Download the 3D BIM model (file .edf) of the wellness center project

I remind you that you can view the 3D project model without downloading it to your PC, using an online BIM viewer. You do not need to download any application; just click on the link to the 3D model I provided and then on the screen icon next to the file to start navigating the model.