Visionary design studio BLINK is continuing to defy the boundaries of travel and place, with the award-winning creation of the Banyan Tree Spa Dubai…
A sanctuary for the soul, the design of the Banyan Tree Spa Dubai, nestled on the shores of Bluewater Island, is infused with BLINK’s philosophy of placemaking: a design practise which maximises local and natural inspiration and potential to promote people’s health, happiness and wellbeing. With this design theory, BLINK has seamlessly melded its deep Asian roots with the warm and sandy desert environment of Dubai, to create a modernist oasis of calm.
Image credit: BLINK
Taking inspiration from the immediate exterior of this desert property, the interior colour palette is inspired by the Arabian oryx, a protected species and a significant symbol of conservation in Dubai. White tones with black accents mirror the oryx’s distinctive appearance and effortless elegance. The Ghaf tree — or tree of life – also served as inspiration for the interior design. The tree’s unique linear formations are reflected through vertical elements on walls, ceilings and screens symbolising resilience and life in Dubai’s harsh desert environment.
The design maintains a less is more credo however, to curate a quiet environment for guests. Soft, dynamic light, coupled with the gentle play of natural sounds and scents, fosters an effortless atmosphere to find your calm and connect and reflect within. Timber flooring, dark hardwood accents, desert stone, handcrafted banana leaf wall coverings and veneer marquetry ensure that you are in-touch with the natural for the length of your spa journey.
Image credit: BLINK
Traditional water cleansing rituals are championed throughout too, with barefoot experiences and the spa’s rainforest tunnel entrance – where guests symbolically wash away their worries, to purify and renew themselves upon entering. Divided into separate areas for men and women, the mini rainforest includes a rain walk with ceiling and wall spa water jets, for an entirely immersive experience.
Steam and sauna rooms, whirlpools, jacuzzis and even bucket and ice showers are available to guests, for a full ‘waters of life’ treatment. Heated loungers are also strategically placed for guests to warm up on for post-treatment relaxing.
BLINK’s Founder and Creative Partner, Clint Nagata said of this project with Banyan Tree: “We share Asian roots, a commitment to sustainability and building purposeful experiences, and a reverence for everything beginning with a sense of place. It is simply a joy to see the vision of this partnership realised. I hope it could be the beginning of a beautiful friendship.”
Main image credit: BLINK
