Urbana Cityspa and Teabar

an Urban Oasis

in the middle of

Su b u r b i a

24036.00 Urbana cit yspa and teabar Charlotte, North Carolina Architecture, Interior Design Sustainable Practice 2008 Retail Design Merit Award Design Works for IIDA, Carolinas Chapter

Tucked away in a nondescript shopping center in Charlotte, North Carolina, patrons are surprised to find a sleek and modern loftstyle spa, art gallery and tea bar commonly referred to as “the spa with the cool ceiling,� says Scott Wilson, AIA, GS&P senior design principal. But there is much more to the Urbana Cityspa and Teabar than just its ceiling.

Early in 2005, GS&P was asked to design a prototype for a unique upscale spa. The client wanted a space with an urban look that also evoked a relaxing, rejuvenating feel. Their vision for this facility, a first of its type in the country at the time of its design, also included eight massage rooms, a custom tea bar, a retail space and a spacious lounge—all within 3,650 square feet.

The design team, led by Wilson and interior designer Kristie Nicoloff, IIDA, NCIDQ, overcame strict spatial limitations to present a design that remains as sleek, dramatic and unique as the owner’s concept. The lounge and tea bar area—a newcomer’s first sight of Urbana Cityspa and Teabar—was envisioned as a posh lounge minus the pretense, drawing all parts of the spa together. This area would provide a place for relaxed socializing, sipping high-end teas and, after dark, enjoying wine, champagne and hors d’oeuvres. It would also encompass the retail offerings of the establishment. With such an ambitious plan for confined space, several measures had to be taken to achieve the intended atmosphere while providing smooth transitions between areas.

The high ceilings were left exposed, contributing to a New York City loft-like atmosphere and the illusion of larger space. At the center of the space, a bold and captivating undulating ceiling fixture is lighted from above, casting reflections that resemble water cascading across the floor. “As soon as guests walk into the tea bar entrance or walk from the reception into the lounge, they are drawn to it,” owner Nancy Goodwin says.

All of the spa’s windows are shaded only by Shimmer Screen beaded curtains. During the day, soft, natural light is filtered through, adding a further source

of visual interest. At night, the dimmed lighting creates a sensual atmosphere.

A black granite tea bar serves as the focal point of the main space. Beyond are sleek Italian sofas and chairs by Minotti. Xilo tile by Viva Ceramica and finishes that borrow the colors of various teas present a clean, uncluttered look. There is no heavy ornamentation; the few decorative objects placed within the interior reflect the formality and simplicity of a tea ceremony.

The surroundings are open, yet intimate.

The massage areas consist of six single rooms and two couple’s rooms, in which 12 different types of massages are offered.

These rooms surround the outside of the space, evoking a sense of embracing the lounge and tea bar. They are small and cozy, promising a soothing, intimate ambiance. “Accordingly,” Nicoloff explained, “more attention had to be paid to sound attenuation than might be expected.”

The owner’s wish was to convert a small, raw space in a suburban shopping area and transform it into an inspiring place that would provide a dual experience that rejuvenates both mind and body—a very private, tranquil massage, accompanied by socializing in a sophisticated yet relaxing environment. GS&P’s design granted that wish, and the experience and the space have proven to be extremely popular in Charlotte. Other Cityspas are planned for the future.

A rapidly growing client base also awards the design with its approval, making comments such as, “The atmosphere, with its stylish design and ambient lighting, added a sense of upscale tranquility.” Nancy Goodwin, President of Urbana Cityspa and Teabar said, “Thank you to GS&P for creating a space that created the buzz that creates Urbana clients.” ■

Gresham, Smith and Partners provides design and consulting solutions for the built environment that contribute to the success of national and international clients. For more than 40 years, GS&P has focused on enhancing quality of life and sustainability within communities. GS&P consists of industry-leading professionals practicing architecture and engineering design as well as scientists and highly specialized planning and strategic consultants in Environmental Compliance, Aviation, Corporate and Urban Design, Healthcare, Industrial, Land Planning, Transportation and Water Services. GS&P consistently ranks among the top architecture and engineering firms in the United States. For more information regarding GS&P, visit www.gspnet.com.

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