Originally located in London’s distinguished Harrod’s department store, Urban Retreat is a luxury spa, gym and beauty salon renowned for its exceptional service. Christian Lahoude Studio’s design concept for the 2,100-square-meter Aïshti By the Sea location gives special treatment to each individual service area by bringing the beauty and wellness destination from the busy streets of London to the relaxed seaside views of Beirut.
When entering the spa, visitors are met with a shimmering grey wall covering which is accented with bedazzled sections in the spa and treatment zone. Gold tones and touches of purple canvas the spa and retail areas, with oak floors for a comfortable, soft aesthetic. Rich grey basalt tiles were used for the salon floors while the washrooms feature a clean grey and white tile palette. Black rubber with dashes of blue in the flooring and metal mesh paneling give the gym its athletic and bold feel as well as its functionality. Lush Donatello stone was used in the common and café areas for a smooth and relaxing feel.
Project Architect: Katharina Hoerath
Photos by Carl Halal