# Concrete Plinth Spa Extensions MacKay-Lyons Sweetapple Architects Extends the Balnea Spa By Amy Duong | Published 2024-10-29 | Art & Design Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/balnea-spa References: [dezeen](https://www.dezeen.com/2024/10/27/mackay-lyons-sweetapple-architects-balnea-spa-extension-quebec/) & [mlsarchitects](https://www.mlsarchitects.ca/)  Canadian design studio [MacKay-Lyons Sweetapple Architects](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/house-at-9000-feet) works on a design project that extends a section of the Balnea Spa and Thermal Reserve in Quebec. The expansion adds a concrete plinth that creates shelter for an [outdoor swimming pool](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/malvern-pool-house) along with a discreet relaxation room. The new space builds on a gently stepped terrace that has stepped areas adorned with loungers and seating to overlook the lake and mountains ahead. The co-founder of the studio and the lead of the team for this project, Brian MacKay-Lyons shares "The generous new thermal bath and spa terrace grounds the scheme within the landscape. The use of [natural materials](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/clay-house) enhances the reading of the 'spa in nature' while offering a wide range of haptic user experiences." Image Credit: Maxime Brouillet ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 2.1/10 - Popularity: 16% | Activity: 18% | Freshness: 29% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Architectural Integration with Nature:** Designs that integrate natural materials and landscapes offer immersive spa experiences. - **Luxury Outdoor Relaxation Areas:** Expanding outdoor lounge areas with scenic views creates bespoke relaxation environments. - **Haptic Design Elements:** Incorporating tactile materials in spa designs enhances user sensory engagement and comfort. ### Where This Applies - **Wellness Tourism:** Destination spas that blend architecture with nature attract wellness-focused travelers. - **Luxury Hospitality:** High-end hotels and resorts can differentiate themselves by investing in integrated natural and luxurious relaxation areas. - **Architectural Design:** Firms focusing on biophilic design can offer unique and immersive experiences for spa and retreat projects. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Rejuvenating Ecological Retreats](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/selenite.md) - [Texturally Designed Day Spas](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/studio-tate.md) - [Tranquil Reimagined Wellness Resorts](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ziedlejas.md) - [Mountainous Alpine Hotel Extensions](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/olympic-spa-hotel.md) - [Compact Calming Homes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/a-sheltered-space.md) - [Plinth Wall Contemporary Extensions](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/plinth-house.md) - [Culturally Influenced Residential Spas](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/dibdo-francis-kr.md) - [Funnelled Light Forested Spas](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/wulingshan-eye-stone-spring-spa.md) - [Contrast Therapy Wellness Facilities](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/arc-1.md)