Sparcstudio an independent, creative design studio specialising in spa and wellness design for over 15 years has announced its latest collaboration – the development of The Grain Store (a new gym and fitness facility) and refurbishment of the Calcot Spa. As designers of the original Calcot Spa back in 2004, Sparcstudio were delighted to be appointed to create this exciting new wellbeing offer.
"With a partnership forged over two decades ago, entrusting Sparcstudio once again to lead our wellness facilities into the future was not just a decision, but a natural progression. Their deep understanding of our brand, shared ethos, and their unmatched blend of expertise and creativity continue to shape spaces that transcend expectation, ensuring our guests and members experience unparalleled enjoyment and rejuvenation” says Richard Ball, Executive Chairman of Calcot Collection.
THE GRAIN STORE
The Grain Store, located in the Calcot hotel grounds, is formed within an old agricultural building which has been ‘upcycled/repurposed from its humble farm origins (as a Grain store), to become a gym and fitness sanctuary designed for ‘ultimate wellbeing’. The 280sqm sanctuary features state-of-the-art facilities designed to embody a ‘green/natural’ feel reflecting the environmental credentials of the building and promoting the surrounding environment wherever possible, offering members and guests the opportunity to enhance their wellbeing in a modern, contemporary setting immersed in the Cotswold Countryside.
Designed in collaboration with Richard Ball, CEO at The Calcot Collection, Francesca Rowland, Spa Director, and AJ Dalton Architects, Sparcstudio applied their wealth of experience in fitness and wellbeing to create a unique bespoke Calcot fitness experience.
“We wanted to create wellness spaces with ‘soul’, designed with a softer Biophilic approach, overlooking and connecting to the natural surroundings with outdoor workout facilities, designed with generous breakout spaces to encourage connection and promote the warm sense of hospitality that is the essence of Calcot,” says Sparcstudio Creative Director, Beverley Bayes.
Sparcstudio designed the ‘state of the art’ gym as a series of zones equipped with Techno Gym Equipment throughout. The zones include a Functional zone with Sled track and Exigo Rig, Cardio, Free weights & Resistance zones, all overlooking the countryside views. Generous stretch areas have been incorporated and there is also a dedicated ‘Proverb’ Assisted stretch pod, which is the UK’s first.
Reflecting the client’s commitment to sustainability, Sparcstudio specified a palette upcycled and sustainable materials including eco paints with low VOC’s, clay based wall renders and corrugated iron for the walls. Counters and vanities are clad with ‘Foressa’ countertop surfaces formed from waste plaster and wood chips.
ENHANCED SPA & WELLNESS FACILITIES
The relocation of the fitness elements from the spa into the new Grain Store, freed up space to create a more spacious and elevated spa journey and experience.
The area where the gym was previously located has been transformed into a relaxing lounge space which links via double doors onto the courtyard garden. An immersive and cocooning deep relax room has been crafted in the former studio space, where guests can chill post-treatment on relaxing beds. This project has also enabled the creation of a new refreshment area overlooking the surrounding fields.
Creative Director, Beverley Bayes explains: ‘’As designers of the original Calcot Spa, Sparcstudio it’s great to have had the privilege to revisit the spa again. We often quote Coco Chanel who said, ‘Luxury isn’t luxury unless its comfortable.’ The spacious new lounges certainly add another layer of luxury and elevated journey to the Calcot Spa experience.’’
www.sparcstudio.co.uk
