Downtown CitySpa: A Contemporary Day Spa Over Ancient Ruins

Uncovering the Beauty of Urban Life

Helen Brasinika, a renowned designer, has created a unique day spa facility called Downtown CitySpa. Inspired by the juxtaposition of old and new, this urban oasis is located in a modernist building built over ancient ruins in Athens, Greece. The design concept aims to offer spiritual and physical stimuli to both city dwellers and travelers.

The Downtown CitySpa is a contemporary take on the traditional day spa, offering a range of herbal and luxury treatments. The location itself serves as a conceptual approach to the city, inviting guests to experience the urban fabric through the lens of a traveler. The spa's proximity to luxury hotel accommodations makes it an ideal retreat for both tourists and locals looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

The design of Downtown CitySpa is a testament to the designer's commitment to excellence. Using advanced 3D CAD and algorithmic NURBS software, Brasinika created a space that seamlessly blends ancient and modern elements. The reception area, conceptualized as a crack in a rock, features pleated monolithic volumes treated with minerals and lava plaster. Linear LED lighting illuminates the space, creating a clear distinction between contemporary and ancient elements.

The circulation within the spa is arranged around an atrium, reminiscent of the inside courtyards found in ancient city dwellings. Custom-made sitting areas, designed as wall openings covered with antique leather and buttons resembling copper voting coins, add a touch of nostalgia. Private treatment rooms, offices, lounges, and dressing rooms are strategically placed around the atrium, providing a harmonious flow throughout the spa.

The realization of Downtown CitySpa posed several challenges. The historical city center and the existing building structure required careful consideration and structural interventions. The goal was to adapt the space to a contemporary facility while optimizing the latest technological advancements. Additionally, the design team had to strike a balance between conceptualizing the city and avoiding elements of folklore that would contradict the spa's contemporary ethos.

With its unique blend of ancient ruins and modern design, Downtown CitySpa offers a one-of-a-kind experience for visitors. The project took six months to complete and is part of OPEN HOUSE 2016, an organization that opens buildings and designs of interest to the public. The spa's innovative approach to wellness and its commitment to preserving the city's history have earned it the prestigious Silver A' Design Award in 2016.

Experience the beauty of urban life at Downtown CitySpa, where ancient ruins and modern design converge to create a truly unforgettable spa experience.