Matteo Thun: Regenerative health and green spa design

Matteo Thun, architect and founder of Matteo Thun & Partners, praises the effects of natural materials and the benefits of connecting with nature

Nature has always been an integral part of all our architecture projects. It is one of my greatest passions to design outside spaces. We try to work with natural material and its tactility as much as possible into the projects we work on. It is believed that humans regenerate much better and more sustainably in a pleasant, natural environment and this determines our design.

For us, the connection to nature is crucial. Ideally, an outdoor spa space should draw the eye and the senses to the beauty and forces of nature. We try to incorporate rosemary hedges, wisteria and pergolas or bougainvillea walls.

Embracing the elements Water is also an important element in this process. It is the essence of life and it conveys purity and cleanliness; it is also the essence of what a spa is about. Outside, in a garden environment, water makes us immediately feel lighter and fresher. Symmetry of design and a sense of the natural or ‘wild’ are seen as integral and connected. The one does not exclude the other.

When designing spa gardens, it is all about the relationship between physical space and wellbeing. To create a sense of privacy when designing an outdoor space, you need to begin with the landscape design, even if the given space is a hotel garden. Privacy can be granted through a green oasis flanked by furniture that forces the idea and feeling of a nest.

Trends in spa garden design Key trends in spa garden design have most recently been influenced by the pandemic. Two themes, in general, have become more important than ever: outdoor spaces and touch-free spa accessories. A healthy environment is a key promoter of wellbeing and a spa garden should provide private zones for guests’ comfort. Green spa design transforms health, promoting stress reduction and improving mood, cognitive performance, social engagement and sleep.

In addition, exceptional wellness facilities and medical care are merging, and we are currently working on several health clinics that offer this combination – concepts that we believe will move more and more into the hotel business in the future. www.matteothun.com