Project Name: Ciel Spa

Location: SLS Dubai Hotel, Business Bay, United Arab Emirates

Date Completed: March 2021

Architect: Aedas

Interior Designer: Bishop Design by Paul Bishop

Hotel Group/Developer: sbe/Accor

Construction Company: Günal Construction

Associated: WOW Red

Photography: Marko Zirdum / Alex Jeffries

Serenity and exclusivity were to come hand in hand at Ciel, the spa offering on the 69th floor of SLS Hotel & Residences in Dubai. The concept itself was an inherent part of SLS properties across the world, however it was up to Bishop Design by Paul Bishop to enhance the offering. Still respecting the previous designs, but evolving the Ciel brand as a refreshed and new identity.

Bishop Design by Paul Bishop conceptualized the narrative to focus on the view, and the notion of being high up in the clouds. This would lead them to orientate the space to capture the exterior perspectives, and that fascinating Dubai skyline.

Operational requirements called out for independent Female & Male entities, where each area would have its own jacuzzi/wet zone, treatment rooms and relaxation zones. Despite these individual areas, Bishop Design by Paul Bishop were also challenged to create a neutral zone for couple treatment rooms which required intelligent consideration towards spatial planning. Besides from functional aspirations, the designers were given freedom to explore aesthetics and determine how users should interact with the space.

Traditional ideologies of a spa have been abandoned, where functional expectations remain but are orchestrated in new forms – using natural materials in modern manners which gives this offering a unique edge, whilst never forgetting the most crucial of factors; serenity. The design approach has been heavily focused on introducing natural materials yet integrating them in a way to appeal to a contemporary new age, reflective of the SLS brand. Bishop Design by Paul Bishop’s methodology of tone-on-tone applications, with teases of pink and references to the sky, elevate an immersive getaway experience. Light palettes mix with darker shades, greenery, and plenty of light to create a feeling of openness; allowing guests to fully surrender to tranquillity.