Bournemouth Wellbeing Centre

Arts University College Bournemouth, School of Architecture, Bournemouth

Project idea

The Bournemouth well-being project is a spa complex which is a commercial well-being centre. The project is based on the philosophy of the ancients’ belief in Mens Sana in corporesano – a healthy mind in a healthy body. The centre is designed to provide a complete wellness experience catering not just for the body but also for the soul.

Project description

The final design provides a visual and physical continuum between indoors and outdoors, which harnesses the spirit of the place. Visitors descend to the level of the pools via a spiral staircase. The symmetric core leads to the small canteens at ground level adjacent to the gardens. A sequence of sanitary facilities, washrooms, showers and cloakrooms surround the main bathing hall preparing the visitor for a ceremonial experience of body wellness.

The Spa is meant to be at the same time peaceful and stimulating, meditative and active, orderly and free-flowing. This occurs through the various transition of space transition of spaces in which light, sound, temperature, humidity, textures, materials and smells are carefully balanced to create immersive sensory experiences.

Further up, space is organized like the gears of a mechanical clock. By moving around alternate centres, the guest is provoked to experience both moments of rest and contemplation as well as meandering through an experiential sequence. This is the largest of the four levels that contains all the wet and warm treatment areas.

The final element of the project will be an open-air public space with planting which reflects the concept of healing in nature, wildlife and a herbal garden. Additional commercial space will be available on long- or short-term rental for bespoke retail, selling products such as fresh produce and other elements which reflect the well- being theme as well as food outlets and artisan craft.

Technical information

Natural light from the domes is used effectively to reduce the need for artificial light. The void in the residential block also enhances natural light access as well as creating a secure cloistered space.

Some problems were encountered with considerations such as where to place the external fire escape without interrupting the visual aesthetic. Economic factors and the implications of using concrete were also concerns.
The complexity of the building cost is high initially but over the lifespan of the building, this will be offset by low maintenance cost.
Exposed concrete floors are easy to clean and there is an abundance of natural light access.

The complex will appear naturally embedded into the site from the outset and will not appear out of place with the more traditional architectural elements within Bournemouth Town Centre. The surrounding garden area can be accessed by the general public and will draw people into the environment. The commercial artisan-style shopping facilities will create revenue and added value at a high level to the experience of Bournemouth as a retail centre. This links back to Damascus and other old cities which still generate this form of intrinsic holistic well-being in everyday life.