Holism – a destination day spa and urban sanctuary amongst its fashion neighbours in Chadstone, Melbourne – encapsulates the notion of a rough-to-polished treatment. Colour, texture and form merge together to create Holism’s unique visual identity. Each space holds its own distinct identity, a reflection of the various functions, all united by a sense of calm indulgence.

The project was to transform a base building tenancy to provide a fully functional day spa with nine treatment rooms, LED lounge, yoga studio, consultation lounge and guest amenities, along with back-of-house support spaces for therapists. The design was to be delivered within a cost-effective manner and a short timeframe. With such a short timeline, the use of colour as a cost-effective, yet interesting way to create identity forges a unique and innovative space at a high standard.

Inspiration arose from the meaning of a wellness spa, which sparked interest in transformation and the juxtaposition one would feel when entering and leaving. The process of polishing a precious metal or stone resembled the treatment, starting from a rough, textured surface and moving to a polished and refined finish. The end result – a polished gem emerging through the rough.

Working around the existing base building structure and services needing to be concealed meant taking an innovative approach while considering low ceilings and no natural light. Studio Tate created a layered canvas of muted, tonal hues enlivened with arched thresholds, rendered walls and soft, recessed lighting. The yoga studio and LED lounge bookend the venue and have been given painted ceiling ‘hats’ in feature colours – yoga studio in terracotta and LED lounge in blush. Different textures are used within the reception desk to encapsulate the notion of a rough-to-polished treatment. Working closely with the client, an urban retreat was achieved.

Lighting: Sphera, Living Edge, About Space. Finishes: Corsi and Nicolai, Artedomus, Signorino, National Tiles, Pelle Leathers, Unique Fabrics, Viridian, Laminex, Dulux, Kandean Design Flooring, Gunnerson. Fittings & Fixtures: Reece, Harvey Norman, D&C Design, Hafele, Custom Industrial, Warranbrooke, Acqua Bathrooms, Anthropologie, Comfortel, Lockin Lockers Australia, Design Stuff, Madinoz, Designer Doorware, Sussex Tapware, Streamline, Axus, Zip, Hay. Art: Vernissage Gallery.

Photography: Lillie Thompson