Red Sea Wellness Retreat | Baca Architects

Yanbu Wellness Retreat

Baca Architects has designed a cocoa pod-shaped treehouse for an eco hotel located on a secluded Panama island, which is accessible only by boat. The practice was asked to design the treehouse as well as a larger residence for the Bíku Treehouse Retreat on the Bocas del Toro archipelago.

The chain of islands in the Caribbean Sea are known for their scenic natural parks, made up from forests and mangroves that provide a habitat for hundreds of species. The treehouse’s design aims to take advantage of the idyllic setting through a broad panoramic opening at one side of its bulbous form, splitting it in two like a cocoa pod.

Upon arrival, the design of the spa entrance conveys a sense of serenity and peace to arriving guests. Light colours, curved forms, and flowing lines harmonise to create an atmosphere that is inviting and calming. With mist over the water on either side, approaching the SPA building evokes a feeling of being at the threshold of something unique and special. The overall design promotes positive emotions such as joy, hope, security and relaxation among others. Guests feel this immediately upon entering the building through the unique design elements. The main spa includes a series of interconnected spaces like treatment areas, swimming pools, whirlpools, saunas, massage rooms and more. The design of each space has been carefully considered to promote relaxation and rejuvenation, with varying temperatures, humidity levels, and lighting conditions.

A central spine connects all the different elements of the Wellness Centre, providing guests with a cohesive and immersive experience. The spine acts as a boulevard with a central water feature running along its length. This walkway is lined with palm trees that provide a soft shade over the path, and it is crowned by a delicate canopy that creates an interesting interplay between light and shadows. As guests walk along this spine, their gaze is immediately drawn towards the vista of the sea, creating a special moment of serenity and relaxation.

The Wellness Centre extends its offerings to the city of Yanbu by having a specialty seafood restaurant that features a variety of exquisite dishes prepared using fresh catches from local fishermen. Incorporating herbs grown on-site enhances the experience and reinforces the wellness aspect. This unique dining experience is elevated by the knowledge that the fishermen benefit financially from the sale of their catches, and consumers can feel good about supporting a sustainable and ethical food source.

The three elements of the building wrap around a west facing courtyardIn order to create a perfect retreat for everyone to relax and unwind, beach cabanas are designed and arranged in clusters and can be booked as an individual unit or as multiple units for families. Featuring a plunge pool with a private outdoor deck, this luxurious spot will have you feeling pampered and relaxed. With six to nine individual cabanas in every cluster, there is plenty of room to sunbathe, swim, or simply soak up some peace and quiet. Privacy screens add a delicate and light touch to these cabanas and prevent overlooking between adjacent units. The overall harmony between these cabanas and the different elements of nature creates a beautiful setting for people to enjoy their trip to the Wellness Centre.

A collection of villas built over water further elevates the stay experience. Built over clear blue waters, the villas provide breathtaking views of the ocean and out to the horizon. One can enjoy spectacular sunsets while lounging on the private deck or relax in a luxurious king-size bed with curtains flowing in the breeze. The kitchen is fully stocked and includes modern appliances, perfect for making light snacks or delicious meals. A private pool that steps down into the sea is nestled within a sunken corner, providing an indulgent escape. Whether it’s a romantic getaway or simply some restful solitude, the overwater villa offers you everything you need for an unforgettable vacation.

The Wellness Retreat aims to create a unique and tranquil environment for guests to relax and rejuvenate. The project includes a spa, specialty dining, and accommodation areas that are carefully designed to promote positive emotions and enhance the guest experience. The design elements used throughout the project are intended to convey a sense of serenity and peace, with a focus on natural elements and pure forms.

Upon arrival, the design of the spa entrance conveys a sense of serenity and peace to arriving guests. Light colours, curved forms, and flowing lines harmonise to create an atmosphere that is inviting and calming. With mist over the water on either side, approaching the SPA building evokes a feeling of being at the threshold of something unique and special. The overall design promotes positive emotions such as joy, hope, security and relaxation among others. Guests feel this immediately upon entering the building through the unique design elements. The main spa includes a series of interconnected spaces like treatment areas, swimming pools, whirlpools, saunas, massage rooms and more. The design of each space has been carefully considered to promote relaxation and rejuvenation, with varying temperatures, humidity levels, and lighting conditions. A central spine connects all the different elements of the Wellness Centre, providing guests with a cohesive and immersive experience. The spine acts as a boulevard with a central water feature running along its length. This walkway is lined with palm trees that provide a soft shade over the path, and it is crowned by a delicate canopy that creates an interesting interplay between light and shadows. As guests walk along this spine, their gaze is immediately drawn towards the vista of the sea, creating a special moment of serenity and relaxation. The Wellness Centre extends its offerings to the city of Yanbu by having a specialty seafood restaurant that features a variety of exquisite dishes prepared using fresh catches from local fishermen. Incorporating herbs grown on-site enhances the experience and reinforces the wellness aspect. This unique dining experience is elevated by the knowledge that the fishermen benefit financially from the sale of their catches, and consumers can feel good about supporting a sustainable and ethical food source. The three elements of the building wrap around a west facing courtyardIn order to create a perfect retreat for everyone to relax and unwind, beach cabanas are designed and arranged in clusters and can be booked as an individual unit or as multiple units for families. Featuring a plunge pool with a private outdoor deck, this luxurious spot will have you feeling pampered and relaxed. With six to nine individual cabanas in every cluster, there is plenty of room to sunbathe, swim, or simply soak up some peace and quiet. Privacy screens add a delicate and light touch to these cabanas and prevent overlooking between adjacent units. The overall harmony between these cabanas and the different elements of nature creates a beautiful setting for people to enjoy their trip to the Wellness Centre. A collection of villas built over water further elevates the stay experience. Built over clear blue waters, the villas provide breathtaking views of the ocean and out to the horizon. One can enjoy spectacular sunsets while lounging on the private deck or relax in a luxurious king-size bed with curtains flowing in the breeze. The kitchen is fully stocked and includes modern appliances, perfect for making light snacks or delicious meals. A private pool that steps down into the sea is nestled within a sunken corner, providing an indulgent escape. Whether it’s a romantic getaway or simply some restful solitude, the overwater villa offers you everything you need for an unforgettable vacation.