$7 million expansion of the Hualalai spa nears completion (United States)
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$7 million expansion of the Hualalai spa nears completion (United States)
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Category: North America & West Indies / Carribean islands - United States - Industry economy
- Trends / Expert's advice
This is a press release selected by our editorial committee and published online for free on 2008-11-19
Spa Launches with New Experiences Grounded in Island Healing Practices
In mid December 2008, a new spa experience, grounded in island healing practices, will be revealed at Four Seasons Resort Hualalai. Kupuna (island elders) and wellness practitioners shared their wisdom to give the spa experience a genuine sense of place. When the spa opens its doors, the healing qualities of native plant and mineral resources will be incorporated into signature treatments, and a new apothecary will custom-blend products. Then, in early 2009, complimentary pre-treatment spa rituals in the new Waiea (Water of Life) Garden, new couples hale with private plunge pool, and new pre and post relaxation area will be added.
"The spa gained national acclaim from its inception in 1996. To continue its success, six years later, a 2,000 square foot strengthening gym and 24-foot high outdoor climbing wall were added. It's now time to re-invent ourselves and create an experience that truly defines who we are," said Hualalai Resort's Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President William Anderson. "And, an integral part of the re-launch of Hualalai Spa is new Spa Director Karen Cosgrove. Her experience, reputation, and expertise in the field are invaluable."
"Four Seasons as a company recognizes the need for an uncompromising spa experience as part of our guests' stay," said Four Seasons General Manager Robert Whitfield, "people deserve to remove themselves from 'usual' and plunge into the 'extraordinary.'"
In-'spa'-rations
Adding their personal inspirations to the overall experience at the new Hualalai Spa are notable experts in their fields.
Sylvia Sepielli, president, SPAd (Sylvia Planning And design, Sedona, Arizona) brings more than 20 years of experience to Hualalai's project, including knowledge in traditional healing arts, gained while living in Hawai`i and Asia. Sylvia, often referred to as a "spa guru," has been the visionary to many notable spas and creates programs that reflect the persona and culture of the area.
Hawai`i Island Designer Sig Zane reminisces about his first visits to Ka`upulehu in the early 70s. In reference to In the Lee of Hualalai, a book written by Jocelyn Fujii, Sig says, "it's filled with place names, wind characteristics, rain habits, and stories of the former residents; and Hannah Springer, one of the 'keiki o ka `aina' or children of this land, breathed spirit and soul into every page." His travels and readings inspires the designs he is creating for the spa uniforms, linens, and select product packaging. "It is an honor beyond comprehension to be allowed to work in this place of beauty!"
The new signature spa line, Pure&True Organic Beauty finds inspiration in its island home. Pure&True products contain a fusion of botanical and marine extracts, an embodiment of living in the Islands and its deep spiritual connection to the earth and ocean. "Many ingredients are found here in Hawai`i," says Pure&True Founder and President Michelle Garcia, "Hawaiian Deep Sea Water and Blue-Green Algae Extract - both from Hawai`i's Big Island - are harvested about 10 miles south of Four Seasons."
The Apothecary
The rich culture, land, and integration of past and current healing practices of Hawai`i serve as the inspiration for the apothecary at Hualalai Spa. A trained staff member will help the guest determine what blends are best by taking into consideration the guest's physical characteristics, preferences for nature-based scents, and desired benefits - both physical and spiritual. Care has been taken to use ingredients that are unique to the islands, with a diverse collection of natural, local ingredients displayed and blended. More than 20 Hawaiian ingredients such as mamaki (small native tree), `alaea (red earth), awapuhi (ginger), niu (coconut), and other Hawaiian essences and essential oils will be featured.
Hualalai Sports Club and Hualalai Spa
Hualalai Spa offers a comprehensive menu of experiences, with massage therapies that range from Hawaiian lomilomi and Thai massage to Swedish, reiki, and acupressure. Hualalai Spa brings the "outside in," allowing nature to play a role in the wellness process. Outdoor hale (thatched structures) nestle up to trickling lava rock water features. Hualalai Sports Club offers open-air gyms, steam, sauna, outdoor lap pool, plunge pool, fitness classes, exercise consultation, acupuncture, body composition analysis, off-site hiking, private and semi-private personal training, and sessions in outrigger canoe paddling, stand-up paddle boarding, surfing, and more from the Alaka`i Nalu, Hualalai's ocean ambassadors.
At the nearby Hualalai Tennis Club, there are eight tennis courts with four courts lit for evening play. Instructional clinics, private lessons, junior clinics, and ball machines are available. Courtside services include iced water, sports beverage, and fresh towels.
Spa Architect
Rob Iopa, WCIT Architects (Watanabe, Chun, Iopa, Takaki)
Honolulu, Hawai'i
Interior Designer
Babey Moulton Jue & Booth (BaMo)
San Francisco, California
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