The legendary Mayfair hotel Claridge’s has opened its first ever spa, created by Hong Kong based designer and long-time Maybourne Hotel Group collaborator André Fu.
Set within the context of the hotel’s Art Deco history, the spa has been conceived to evoke the spirituality of the East. Fu drew on his own experiences visiting traditional Japanese temples and Zen gardens in Kyoto for inspiration. However, rather than imitating these particular aesthetic traditions, Fu has imagined a unique contemporary experience that promotes a genuine sense of mindfulness and balance, drawing heavily on Asian design influences.
The spa’s architecture plays with proportions as well as light and shade to create an immersive experience for guests. Each vista is carefully considered with windows that subtly frame each view, while the use of natural elements – solid French limestone, natural oak and water – emphasises the sense of authenticity that is at the foundation of Fu’s personal aesthetics.
Upon entering the foyer, guests are greeted by a full-height cast glass screen crafted by Irish artisan Eoin Turner. The texture of the glass evokes the silhouette of bamboo grove or reed beds, guiding them into the rotunda – a meditative, dimly lit cylindrical space that features a suspended Japanese glass artwork by Victoire Bourgois. Falling water trickles down the installation, creating a multi-sensory atmosphere with relaxing sound and visual elements.
Guests then enter another circular space adorned with a solid limestone counter, alongside a ceiling illuminated by a halo of light glowing from above. The spatial tour continues through a 12-metre long tunnel with a slanted wall on one side, embellished with a grid of strong shadows cast across the ceiling. On the other side is a linear glass opening that looks onto the indoor pool. This visual connection to water, light and shadow creates the impression of a subterranean micro-climate. The corridor leads to a series of private changing pods, each complete with private showers and amenities.
The main pool area is the spa’s central hub. Minimalist in spirit, two rows of limestone-clad columns and a magnificent, multi-vaulted ceiling frame the pool. Set back from the water, personal cabanas offer private spaces to unwind. A Scarpa-inspired feature low wall also appears to cut into the pool, with a mini waterfall projecting out from one side.
Another installation of interlocking oak posts adorns the threshold marking the entrance to the treatment area. Inspired by the silhouette of bamboo forestry, the spaces are suffused with a sense of calm and meditation. Bonsai trees are also featured extensively in the connecting passageway to accentuate the sense of nature throughout the spa.
The ultimate urban retreat can be found in each of the seven private treatment salons. Lined in full height oak panelling that conceals all equipment, each treatment chamber is deliberately pure to allow a rejuvenation of the mind and body.
