A haven of wellness and care in the heart of Paris.

The Balneotherapy treatment center - a haven of wellness and care in the heart of Paris’s historic Marais neighborhood.

We were approached to design a spa, treatment center and balneotherapy in the heart of Paris, within an existing building in the Marais. Located within a typical Parisian courtyard surrounded by Haussmannien buildings, the focus was to design a warm and welcoming space for wellness, relaxation, and healing.

The fusion of modernity with the historical essence of the Marais district was a guiding principle throughout the design process. Each element was carefully curated to harmonize with the existing architecture, creating a seamless blend of the old and the new.

The reception and rest area - Balneotherapy center

Upon entering the spa, guests are enveloped in a serene atmosphere, a sanctuary away from the crowded and busy streets of Paris. The play of natural lighting filtering through carefully positioned apertures accentuates the interplay between shadow and light, casting beautiful patterns upon the authentic stone walls. These ancient foundations, beams and columns, once mere structural components, have now become an integral part of the spa's narrative.

One of the standout features is the training room where the convergence of traditional and innovative elements is highly pronounced. The original glazed enclosure extending into the building’s courtyard is preserved and allows an abundance of natural light to flood the space, creating an airy, open atmosphere. Here, the juxtaposition of contemporary training equipment against the backdrop of time-worn stone walls serves as a reminder of the space's multifaceted purpose and history.

The treatment rooms - Balneotherapy center

The functional aspects were as paramount as the aesthetic appeal of the overall project.

The layout was meticulously designed to ensure a fluid experience for both visitors and staff and preserve privacy. Every corner, every alcove, was designed with purpose, maximizing efficiency without compromising the overarching sense of tranquility.

In crafting the treatment rooms, a palette of natural materials was used, evoking a sense of serenity and grounding. Rich tones of wood, softened by the tactile dimension of the stone, create a cocoon-like environment that comforts visitors. Each room is a haven, designed to facilitate healing and relaxation, while maintaining and enhancing a profound connection to the building's historical identity.

Beyond the visual and tactile elements, the space was conceived to engage and stimulate all senses. Aromatherapy infusions subtly permeate the air, captivating olfactory senses, while the soft sounds of water features provide a melodic backdrop, further enhancing the therapeutic qualities of the space.

Nestled within the project is the indoor stainless-steel pool, a bespoke element designed for therapeutic and relaxation purposes that seamlessly merges modernity with the inherent elegance of the center's design.

The transition into the water therapy zone begins with the changing area—a space where wood, stone and textured tiles are dominant. Here, the visitor embarks on a sensory journey, leaving behind the bustling world outside to step into a realm designed to evoke tranquility and comfort. The rugged texture of stone underfoot contrasts harmoniously with the smooth, warm tones of the wooden fixtures, creating a rich tactile experience.

The changing area - Stone and wood - Balneotherapy center

As one ventures further, the space unfolds, opening up towards the stainless-steel pool area. Bathed in a unique lighting scheme, the pool is an embodiment of serenity and sophistication. The lighting design here is not merely functional; it's intentionally crafted, casting a mesmerizing interplay of shadows and reflections that move upon the water's surface.

The pool's stainless-steel structure, a contemporary choice, exudes a sleekness that contrasts beautifully with the surrounding organic elements. The cool, metallic surface reflects the carefully orchestrated lighting, infusing the space with a serene ambiance. This intentional design elevates the pool area beyond a mere water feature—a space where visitors can immerse themselves in a sensorial experience.

The pool area - Water and light - Balneotherapy center

The dappled sunlight filtering through from the adjacent glazed training room paints a mesmerizing mosaic upon the pool's surface, transforming it into a living canvas that evolves through the day.

The choice was also driven by structural reasons, in order to lighten the loads on the historic fabric while dissociating the pool from the building’s structure in order for each entity to move independently. The design was thus enriched and meticulously thought of to also respond and resolve the complexity of the technical challenges encountered.

The success of this project, envisioned to respond to a specific medical need, lies not only in the subtle curation of materials and spatial layouts but in the orchestration of an experience—a harmonious entity where past and present, functionality and aesthetics, converge to create a haven of wellness and care in the heart of Paris's historic Marais neighborhood.