Thinking

Walrus- Spa Designers Ltd. is concerned with the strategic development of spa for Australasia, and the Pacific Rim.

What do we mean by ‘Spa’?
The term ‘spa’ is traditionally used to mean a place where water that is believed to have special health-giving properties occurs. This is usually a mineral or hot spring and can include cold water and thermal treatments. (The term is derived from the Belgium town of Spa.)
‘Spa’ links water with thermal areas to encourage rest, retreat and relaxation, is corporate to encourage communication and has areas for individual consultation - massage, beauty, and medical.
Spa is ‘rest and retreat with purpose’.

What stands in the way of ‘spa’ development for Australasia?
Firstly there is a misunderstanding in people’s philosophy of spa and its cultural relevance. Many would relate ‘spa’ to simply a bubble pool, or an exclusive quasi-medical retreat. Some professional thinking has not helped this perception with the word being attached freely to establishments.
Secondly the beauty market particularly, which offers extended stays with a variety of treatments in an attempt to create ‘Spa’, lead people to believe that this is ‘Spa’, a predominately female and cosmetic based institution. Regrettably spa consultants themselves are usually beauty based with design and management ability in this area.
Thirdly business analysis has been difficult for institutions, and authorities to commit to supporting the larger vision. The beauty model is quantifiable but the successful European spa models seem ‘remote’ both in distance and relevance to this part of the world while the Asian model, based on inexpensive labour, is also unattractive and unlikely to be affordable, outside its environment.  So a new model is required.
Also successful manufacturers (currently mainly European) suffer a ‘belief gap’ in their ability to design and deliver a product along with ongoing maintenance. For many it is simply a ‘bridge too far’ as their product requires more than an importer of boxes, rather they need a partner who understands their philosophy to ensure the success of their product.

Will ‘Spa’ come here?
It is significant that ‘Spa’ is very current language as professionals and investors sense the potential. Many have seen the larger vision when travelling overseas and the media articles are increasing.
In the last 18 months our research has shown that institutions want ‘Spa’, and that correctly designed it will be financially rewarding.
Our belief is that we can uniquely provide this design by having the multidisciplined personnel, the experience of over 60 previous built spas in the UK, and the support of the world’s number one manufacturer.

Walrus’s goal is to deliver the spa experience into this region.

This means

• Our branding is culturally viable, accessible and understandable by people.
• Our brand is financially resilient.
• Our brand is available in a variety of forms suitable for locations such as towns, hotel/lodges and other rural locations.
• Its design is relevant, flexible and long term.

Walrus can achieve these goals –

• With experienced personnel. Our team is made up of three individuals that have specific skill sets that are unlike any other is this region of the world, with proven track records in commercial and innovated business which are extensive, and recognised. (see profiles)
• With competent resources. Our resources include long term relationships with respected and successful companies:  Klafs Saunabau GmbH – the largest spa manufacturer in Europe. Kemp Construction- a specialised building company. RDT Pacific - project management, budgeting etc.
• With a network of professionals of vision and ability who are ‘spa savvy’ and have already invested in this goal. These include: architects, beauty consultants, financial planners, developers, and managers.

Walrus’s brand will answer the needs of the market, being flexible and enhancing the uniqueness of a location. Further its value will be ‘wanted’ by the public and ensure the commercial success of a project, encouraging stake holders.

Walrus’s scope of work offers a ‘turn key’ operation for the client as our knowledge of the market has shown that this is the only way to deliver the complex package of ‘spa’.
Our service will cover the three main areas required - Design, Build, and Commissioning.