Roelani

Do you need to pay a licence fee if you play music in your spa?

With most spas and salons now using streaming services for their music in their spas, we have forgotten that we will have to pay licensing fees when streaming it in public areas
such as your spa, salon, showroom, or office.

Here is the break down of how it works.
You will need to pay two licences:

1. SAMPRA (South African Music Performance Rights Association)

Function: SAMPRA administers and collects public performance rights for sound recordings. This means they collect fees from businesses that play recorded music in public, such as restaurants, and distribute these fees to the artists and record companies.

Scope: Focuses on sound recordings and music videos. When you play a song from a CD, radio, or digital file in a public space, SAMPRA ensures that the performing
artist and record label are compensated.

2. SAMRO (South African Music Rights Organization)

Function: SAMRO manages the performance rights of composers, authors, and
publishers. This includes the rights to musical works (lyrics and compositions). They collect royalties whenever a musical work is performed in public, broadcasted, or reproduced.

Scope: Deals with the underlying musical compositions and lyrics. When you play any version of a song, SAMRO ensures that the songwriter and publisher are compensated.

Further clarification:

Differences Between SAMPRA and SAMRO

SAMPRA: Collects royalties for the public performance of recorded music (the actual sound recording).
SAMRO: Collects royalties for the public performance of musical works (the composition and lyrics).

Legal Obligation to Pay Both

Yes, you are legally bound to pay both organizations if you play music in a public space like a restaurant or a spa. This is because two separate rights are involved: The right to the recording (handled by SAMPRA) and the right to the composition and lyrics (handled by SAMRO).

Consequences of Not Paying

Legal Action: Both organizations can take legal action against businesses that do not comply, which can result in fines and penalties.
Reputational Damage: Non-compliance can damage the reputation of your business, especially in industries that heavily rely on ambiance and customer satisfaction, such as the restaurant and spa sector.

Why You Need to Pay Even When Subscribing to Music Streaming Platforms

Music Streaming Platforms: Services like Spotify, Apple Music, and others pay royalties for personal and private use of music. This license does not cover public performance rights.
Public Performance: Playing music in a restaurant is considered a public performance, which requires separate licensing. The fees collected by SAMPRA and SAMRO are specifically for the public use of music, ensuring that all parties involved in the creation and production of the music are compensated fairly.

Difference Between Streaming Music at Home vs. in a Spa or Salon

Private Use at Home: When you stream music at home, it's considered personal and private use. Streaming services have already paid for the rights to allow this type of use.
Public Use in a Spa or Salon: Streaming music in a restaurant is a public performance. Even though you are using a streaming service, the public nature of the performance requires additional licensing to ensure that creators are compensated for this broader use of their work.

Summary:

SAMPRA and SAMRO are crucial for protecting the rights of musicians and songwriters, ensuring they receive fair compensation when their work is used publicly.

Legal Compliance: It’s essential to comply with both to avoid legal issues and support the music industry.

Public vs. Private Use: Recognize the difference between personal use and public performance to understand the need for these licenses.

For more information, please refer to the following websites:
www.sampra.org.za
www.samro.org.za

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Innovation in the Spa Space: A Consultant’s Perspective

I often get asked how did I become a wellness & spa consultant? I truly can say consultancy chose me. I started out as a distributor in the spa industry and as my company grew and the industry grew, so did the demand from my clients grow for guidance by an expert. Every client requests the best possible advice, and it is imperative that I stay abreast of the trends and innovation within the global industry to advise my clients accordingly. 

In the realm of spa equipment, innovation is not just about introducing something new; it’s about turning a vision into reality while meeting my client requests, consumer demands, and addressing infrastructure, architectural and budget availability. As a leading consultant in this dynamic industry, my role is to navigate the intersection of innovation, creativity, quality, profitability, and energy-efficiency to deliver solutions that elevate both client satisfaction and business success.

Understanding the Essence of Innovation

Innovation is more than just a buzzword; It’s a driving force behind progress and evolution in the spa industry. At its core, innovation encompasses the ability to conceive and implement novel ideas, technologies, or processes that enhance the way spa professionals deliver services and consumers experience treatments. Whether it’s pioneering advancements in device technology, introducing groundbreaking treatment modalities, or reimagining the client experience, innovation serves as a catalyst for positive transformation.

Meeting Client Requests and Consumer Demands

One of the primary roles of a consultant is to bridge the gap between client requests and consumer demands. This involves understanding the unique needs and objectives, whether they’re seeking to expand the spa’s service offerings, improve treatment efficacy, or optimize operational efficiency. By collaborating closely with clients, I strive to identify their pain points, aspirations, and desired outcomes, ensuring that any recommended solutions align seamlessly with their goals.

Simultaneously, consumer demands play a pivotal role in shaping the direction of innovation within the industry. Today’s consumers are increasingly discerning, seeking out treatments that deliver visible results. Moreover, there’s a growing emphasis on personalized experiences and sustainable practices. As such, I work to anticipate emerging trends and preferences among consumers, guiding clients towards equipment and technologies that resonate.

Navigating Infrastructure and Architectural Logistics

Innovation cannot exist in a vacuum; it must be integrated within the broader framework of infrastructure and architectural logistics. Whether it’s a standalone spa, a multi-functional wellness center, or a high-end medical clinic, the physical environment plays a critical role in shaping the efficacy and accessibility of treatments. As a consultant, I collaborate closely with architects, designers, and facility managers to ensure that equipment installations are seamlessly integrated into existing spaces, optimizing workflow efficiency and enhancing the overall client experience.

Moreover, I consider logistical considerations such as space constraints, power requirements, ventilation systems, operational requirements and regulatory compliance. By proactively addressing these factors, I help clients avoid potential pitfalls and streamline the implementation process, enabling them to realize the full potential of their investment in innovative equipment.

Fostering Innovation Through Creativity and Quality

Creativity is the lifeblood of innovation, fuelling the development of imaginative solutions that push the boundaries of what’s possible in the spa industry. Whether it’s conceptualizing cutting-edge treatment protocols, designing intuitive user interfaces, or crafting captivating marketing campaigns, creativity infuses every aspect of the innovation process. As a consultant, I encourage clients to think outside the box, challenge conventional wisdom, and embrace a spirit of experimentation and exploration.

However, innovation must also be underpinned by a commitment to quality, reliability, and profitability. In the fast-paced world of spa equipment, there’s no room for compromise when it comes to performance, safety, and durability. That’s why I advocate for clients to prioritize reputable manufacturers and suppliers known for their track record of excellence. By selecting equipment that meets rigorous quality standards and undergoes thorough testing and certification, offer reliable warranties, clients can minimize risk and maximize the return on their investment in innovation.

Embracing Energy-Efficiency for Sustainable Progress

Innovation isn’t just about achieving something new; it’s also about advancing sustainability and environmental responsibility. In an era of growing eco-consciousness, energy-efficiency has emerged as a key consideration in the design and operations. From LED light therapy devices to laser systems with advanced cooling mechanisms, there’s a myriad of energy-efficient technologies available that not only reduce carbon footprint but also lower operating costs.

As a consultant, I advocate for the adoption of energy-efficient practices and technologies as part of a broader commitment to sustainability. Whether it’s recommending equipment with low power consumption, optimizing treatment protocols to minimize waste, or implementing eco-friendly disposal methods, using alternative energy sources like solar, I help clients embrace a holistic approach to environmental stewardship. By integrating energy-efficiency into their operations, clients not only contribute to a greener future but also enhance their brand reputation and appeal to eco-conscious consumers.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Innovation

As we look to the future, the landscape of spa equipment innovation continues to evolve at a rapid pace. From advancements in artificial intelligence and robotics to breakthroughs in regenerative medicine and gene therapy, the possibilities are virtually limitless. However, the true measure of innovation lies not just in its novelty but in its ability to deliver tangible benefits and analysis of the guest to professionals and consumers alike.

As a consultant, my commitment to innovation remains unwavering. By staying abreast of emerging trends, technologies, and consumer preferences, I strive to empower clients to embrace the future with confidence and conviction. Whether it’s harnessing the power of virtual reality for immersive spa experiences or leveraging data analytics to personalize skincare regimens, or a complete digital detox approach, I’m dedicated to helping clients unlock the full potential of innovation.

In conclusion, innovation is a multifaceted endeavour that requires a delicate balance of creativity, quality, and practicality. By aligning client requests, consumer demands, and infrastructure considerations, while embracing energy-efficiency and sustainability, we can chart a course towards more harmonious, beautiful spa and wellness spaces.

Innovation in the Spa Space: A Consultant’s Perspective Read More »

Invest in Spa Equipment to achieve best Spa therapy results

“In this new era of wellness, installing the right equipment within your spa is vital if you are to achieve enduring business success. You can treat your spa guest with the best spa therapies on the market, but the only way we will retain our guest will be to match your spa comfort with the spa therapies.”

With demand surging for spa and wellbeing services, the power of touch and connection is a higher priority than ever before. Your treatment room spaces must be maximised to strengthen the connection between therapists and guests and ensure that not only does it function effectively but offer the guest pure luxurious comfort. 

The quality of a treatment room experience is fundamentally important to your revenue and the right equipment can make a considerable difference in how your therapist achieves results and how you retain your guests to repeat their visit. 

The Human Touch: 

Spa treatments, such as massages, facials, and body wraps, are performed by trained professionals. These treatments provide a personalized experience that caters to the individual’s specific needs and preferences. The human touch involved in these treatments can be therapeutic, providing not just physical relaxation but also emotional relief.

The Power of technology:

On the other hand, spa equipment like ergonomically designed treatment beds, hydrotherapy tubs, steam rooms, and high-tech beauty devices offer a different kind of benefit. They leverage technology to deliver consistent and efficient results. For instance, a session in an infrared sauna or a hydrotherapy tub can offer relaxation and health benefits that are hard to achieve through manual treatments alone.

While both spa treatments and spa equipment have their unique advantages, they work best when used together.

 

Here are some of my favourite pieces of equipment that should be invested in when setting up your spa:

 

Treatment beds 

Your chosen treatment beds are one of the biggest investments you will make in your spa. This piece of equipment is the most used piece of furniture in your spa, so needs to have a strong structure, stable and can hold a weight of 150kg and more. The latest treatment beds on the market offers ergonomically designed positionings, internal heating systems and height adjustability. This allows the spa therapist to perform multiple treatments on the bed, without compromising on the stability or comfort of the guest experience, while protecting her own posture.  

 I often see spas trying to save cost on treatment beds which in turn compromises the spa guest comfort. We cannot expect our guests to pay top dollar and repeat their visit to lie on a cheap, unstable portable treatment bed for 2 hours. 

Sauna, Steam, or Infrared

Heat is an ancient way of healing sore and tired muscles. In our modern spa this is a must, not only to be used for the guest to enjoy before and after a treatment, but to be incorporated into a treatment offering to prepare the body before a massage or aromatherapy treatment. With heat preparation the guests’ muscles and skin will be softer and easier to treat, which assists the therapist to achieve the best results, without the strain on her hands. A pre-session of heat either in a Sauna, Steam room or infrared sauna, should be incorporated into each guest experience without compromise. 

Hot Towel Cabinets & Sterilisers

Hot towel cabinets are an intricate part of offering a portable heat source. Heating up your linen like hand towels, compresses, mittens and foot booties before applying it to the guest, is always an extra touch to luxury care. Sterilisers are a must as hygiene is a necessity for the future health of the client. 

Cold Therapy Bathing Unit

Whether you have a small cold swimming pool or an ice bath, cold therapy in conjunction with heat therapy gives the body’s immune system a wonderful boost and aids blood flow and detoxification. The latest craze is to fit in a cold plunge bath, where the temperature is regulated to offer a cold bath for recovery of muscles and improve blood circulation before entering a sauna. 

Advanced Aesthetic Equipment

Whether your spa is focussing on only on touch therapies, we cannot deny that our guests are expecting results during their facials and body treatments. Advanced therapies like microneedling, radio frequency, carboxy therapy, fractional lasers, and cold lasers, have now become an intricate part of the result process, and are now becoming a huge part of the spa industry. Combining touch therapies with an advanced aesthetic treatment makes for just a sweeter experience with a visible result. 

Invest in Spa Equipment to achieve best Spa therapy results Read More »

Latest Project: Hotel Verde

Our brief at the end of April 2023 was to create a sustainable spa within a boutique space that aligns with the ethos of Hotel Verde, recognized as the greenest hotel in Africa. The initial operational layout and design concept were meticulously crafted by myself in collaboration with Willeen from Ohkre Collective, a local interior architecture and design firm. Using predominantly curved walls, exquisite green stucco wall finishes, and curved arch retail shelves and reception desk, we aimed to emulate the organic shapes of nature. Since then, Mario and Annemarie have selected the tiles, finishes, and joinery.

Annemarie also curated all the loose furniture, small decor items, plants, and pictures. As the spa consultant, I aimed to ensure not only the functionality of the spa but also adherence to the hotel’s “green” philosophy. For our spa equipment, I opted for locally manufactured beach wood massage beds and trolleys, coated with Vo2 free varnish from The Spa Warehouse in Paarl. The loungers were locally crafted by a company in Cape Town, and all our towels and linen were sourced locally as well.

I developed a treatment menu comprising professional treatments exclusively using South African product ranges that are certified organic and natural, aligning with Verde Vita’s philosophy, which translates to “green life”. The selected ranges include Esse Skincare, Cashmere & Co., Matsimela, Biosculpture, and Sunskin.

The spa space features three private treatment rooms, one of which can be opened up to accommodate couples, an infrared cabin sauna for warming and detoxifying the body, a pedicure area, and the Breathing Room for post-treatment relaxation. Our spa staff, all locally trained professionals, wear uniforms designed in collaboration with a local designer from Cape Town. This ensures that our foreign guests can enjoy an authentic South African experience upon their arrival in our beautiful country.

This endeavor was truly a team effort!

The inauguration of Verde Vita Spa and Wellness Centre heralds a new chapter in the realm of eco-luxury travel. On November 21, 2023, Verde Vita welcomed its esteemed guests with an unparalleled level of success, marking a significant milestone for Hotel Verde Cape Town Airport. Renowned for its steadfast dedication to sustainability, the launch of Verde Vita underscores the hotel’s ongoing commitment to fostering a greener and more holistic environment.

Nestled within a lush oasis, Verde Vita offers guests a luxurious sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation. Originally conceived to cater to Hotel Verde’s discerning guests seeking respite after long flights, the spa initially began as a modest facility within the hotel premises. However, recognizing the growing demand, Hotel Verde embarked on a transformative journey to convert vacant office spaces into a grand spa facility. Collaborating with esteemed partners such as the local architectural firm Ohkre Collective, construction company Phase Three, sustainability consultant André Harms of Ecolution, and spa consultant Jacoline Wentzel of Spa Warehouse, Verde Vita was meticulously crafted to infuse sustainability into every aspect of its design and operation.

As a boutique spa, Verde Vita seamlessly integrates Hotel Verde’s core values, offering guests an immersive experience that combines sustainability with unparalleled comfort. Inspired by the organic shapes found in nature, the spa’s aesthetic features curved walls, green finishes, and meticulously curated design elements, reflecting Hotel Verde’s ethos of preserving the environment while delivering exceptional service.

The vision behind Verde Vita is emphasized by the meticulous selection of locally manufactured spa equipment and eco-friendly product ranges. With three exquisitely appointed treatment rooms named after flowering plants, Verde Vita caters to couples seeking intimate relaxation experiences. Moreover, the spa’s commitment to using environmentally friendly and sustainable products underscores its dedication to promoting a greener future.

Verde Vita Spa and Wellness Centre epitomizes Hotel Verde’s commitment to sustainable hospitality, offering guests a luxurious yet responsible travel experience. Positioned as Africa’s greenest hotel, Hotel Verde sets a benchmark for eco-friendly accommodation and amenities, including Verde Vita, which further enriches the hotel’s offerings.

Embrace the #VerdeVita way of life and immerse yourself in the ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation experience. Stay updated on all the latest news and promotions by following Hotel Verde on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

Latest Project: Hotel Verde Read More »

Is Barefoot the new luxury?

At the end of last year, I had the privilege to visit one of our clients in Franschoek, called Sterrekopje, for a day of indulgence as a guest. Nestled between the majestic mountains of Franschoek, vineyards, olive groves, and beautiful cultivated gardens lies this very special place.

The lack of signage at the gate of this beautiful farm gives you the first glimpse of what awaits you. When you enter, pure barefoot luxury with tranquility and privacy at the center of its philosophy awaits your stressed body.

The French Huguenot-era buildings have been lovingly restored and adorned with a combination of French, Dutch, Southern African, and Moroccan furniture. The colors that surround you are on patterned fabrics and richly painted walls with hand-painted Moroccan and Indian murals. The décor throughout is warm and inviting and can especially be enjoyed in the Orangery and Bath house.

I was welcomed by the phenomenally trained local staff and shown to the orangery, where I enjoyed a delicious warm drink. Spending some time in the curated wildflower garden, sipping my delicious coffee, I was reminded of the pure healing power of nature. You are surrounded by beautifully curated gardens that sit gently on the landscape of this working farm and produce grapes, olives, and lemons. Even though I was surrounded by all this and a few other guests, I did not feel rushed at all; instead, I felt the thoughts releasing from my overworked mind and experienced a calm that only silence and nature in such thoughtfully curated surroundings can bring.

At first it was challenging to rest and relax, as I am used to an adrenalin-driven day, but once my body rhythm started to get influenced by the gorgeous ambience, I could feel the stress just melt away and my mind forget about the world outside.

It was then time for my bath in the allocated building that hosts a true Moroccan Bath House. Rich jewel colors (green, navy, and Ohkre) adorn the floors, walls, and upholstery. Each area in this beautiful bath house has a signature treatment offering that allows you to experience pure touch therapy to relax the body and sooth the soul, performed by highly qualified therapists.

The Hammam uses Cashmere & Co products to create a luxurious bath and exfoliation ritual; The Ayer Vedic treatment room uses the Shiro Dhara treatment bed and stand to allow pure comfort during your treatment; and the Massage Touch Therapy room uses a highly comfortable Manak electrical treatment bed, all supplied by The Spa Warehouse.

Throughout the day, I was either walking barefoot, sitting on the grass, or meandering through the wildflowers and was surrounded by the gorgeous landscape of fynbos, vineyards, olive trees, and majestic mountains. And without any music, technology, or AI, my every need was met, while my body had time to experience true relaxation.

After my treatment, I was served a delicious farm-to-table 3-course meal that was not only visually enchanting to the eyes but also satisfied the taste buds in such a way that you knew you had been spoiled in Africa. It was a pure delight and a great way to end my day at this magical place. Some might question whether this is luxury; others will call it true luxury. But as a spa consultant, I get to experience some magnificent spaces, and I must say, this was one for the books. With the world becoming so set on technology and man-made experiences, Sterrekopje was escapism from it all that rushes us and truly a unique experience, gently working together with nature’s rhythm of grace.

I am sold. Sterrekopje will certainly see me again. Barefoot is my new luxury.

Lots of love

Jacoline

esthetica

Treatment Equiment Supplied

cashmere & co

Treatment Products Supplied

Contact us for any further information.  We look forward to hearing from you!

Visit Sterrekopje

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Noise Management

Sustainable Spa Design – Noise Management

 The noise level of your space is important to understand.  To analyse and plan the noise distribution in your space is key. First understand what noise you will be dealing with in your area like traffic, a school next door etc. 

 

Make sure you know what time of the day a higher noise level is and from what direction is comes. There are various apps available on your phone that will help measure the decibels. You then will choose a barrier that will help to prevent the noise from traveling. 

 

TIP: Use the noise barrier like plants, walls and fencing closer to the source of the noise that closer to the building. 

 

When using barriers to prevent noise from travelling, use vegetation. The trick is to use as dense as possible, as big as possible and as high as possible. The denser it is the more it will prevent the noise to travel. 

Sound Insulation is especially important in a spa. Make sure insulation is around your pipes for instance to insulate the pipes and prevent the sound from traveling when flushing water. Also make sure windows, doors and closures close properly and prevent sound from coming through from the small areas. 

Make sure your noisy areas in your spa like hair salons, barber areas, reception area, nail area and pedicure stations are separated from your quiet areas like sleep rooms and massage treatment rooms. 

Conclusion

To achieve sustainable architecture and design in your spa, planning is key. The balance between design, wellbeing and the environment is the goal. When all is working in harmony with each other, we not only achieve an establishment that makes our clients happy, but also stimulates wellness and healing without having a detrimental impact on our environment. 

Warmest egards.
Jacoline

For Spa Design or Consulting email jacoline@thespawarehouse.co.za

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Private Collection

Sustainable Spa Design – Introducing our Private Collection

The essential style guide for your Spa & Wellness project. Photo credit: The Marly Spa, Cape Town, South Africa\

Natural Materials
The Spa Warehouse prides itself on its private collection of luxurious spa furniture, linen, and products that are all made in Africa. The collection is carefully curated to offer clients the ultimate spa experience, using only the highest quality materials and workmanship. From plush towels and robes to beautifully crafted massage tables and chairs, every item is designed to create a sense of relaxation and indulgence. The Spa Warehouse is committed to supporting local artisans and manufacturers, ensuring that each piece is not only luxurious but also sustainable and ethical.

Africa is one the continents that have the richest natural resources available. With still a vast number of various types of woods, stones, granite, coppers and sand available, we are fortunate that we can tap into natural materials to use as furniture, siding, surfaces and cladding in our spas.

Scarlet Treatment Bed

Our Scarlet Treatment bed is a solid wooden bed and is one of our most popular. With a modern, streamline design, this treatment bed is ideal for a modern spa design. It is durable and strong and can support a weight of up to 180kg. The Height is adjustable and the back rest has 3 positions. Mattress is 10cm think. Mattress cover is available. Our standard upholstery colour is off white. But other colours are available at additional cost.

Exclusive Clients:

12 Apostles
12 apostles
The Marly Spa
The Oyster Box
The Oyster Box
Poplar Spa

Chelsea Treatment Bed

Our Deluxe Storage solid wooden Treatment Bed has specifically designed for rooms in need of extra storage. Please note our new design has two drawers at the bottom instead of cupboard. With a modern, streamline design, this treatment bed is ideal for a modern spa design. It is durable and strong and can support a weight of up to 180kg. The Height is adjustable and the back rest has 3 positions. Mattress is 10cm think and covered with a off white upholstery. Mattress cover is available.

Exclusive Clients:

Heavenly Spa at The Westin Hotel
Lion Sands Sabi Sabi
Steenberg Spa

Savannah Treatment Bed

Our Deluxe Storage solid wooden Treatment Bed has specifically designed for rooms in need of extra storage. Please note our new design has two drawers at the bottom instead of cupboard. With a modern, streamline design, this treatment bed is ideal for a modern spa design. It is durable and strong and can support a weight of up to 180kg. The Height is adjustable and the back rest has 3 positions. Mattress is 10cm think and covered with a off white upholstery. Mattress cover is available.

Exclusive Clients:

The Silo Hotel
Bona Bona Game Lodge
Biutiful Aesthetic Clinic
Lady Loch Spa

Trolley Collection

Scarlet Spa Trolley

A very sturdy large 3 tier trolley. All three tears are suitable for large spa products and towel storage. The top tear is strong enough to host a spa treatment machine.  Available in Natural, Dark wood finish, Walnut med brown (see image) or white. 

Dimensions: D 43cm  x W 71cmm  x H 90cmm 

Chelsea Spa Trolley

An elegant smaller trolley ideal for smaller rooms. Two tear with a lockable draw. Top tear  is covered on 3 sides by a railing that stops spaproducts from falling off.  Available in Natural, Dark wood finish, Walnut, med brown (see image) or white.

Dimensions: L 36cm x W 50cm x H 91 cm

Fynbos Spa Product Collection

Cashmere & Co is a proudly South African lifestyle product brand that will leave your skin as soft as cashmere. Cashmere & Co is a fusion of historic knowledge, quality ingredients and modern sustainable practices coming together in a luxurious lifestyle collection suitable to use in your spa or at home. The concept was created by Miss Jacoline Wentzel, one of the leading spa consultants & designers in South Africa and owner of The Spa Warehouse.

Contact us for pricing or more information.

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Sustainable Spa Design – Be Water Wise

To be LEED certified (which is the international green building certification) you need to achieve 20% savings on water use, compared to the baseline of a usual building. 

Baseline water usage for regular used equipment indoors:

Shower                             9.5L / minutes

Toilet                                 6L / flush

Urinals                              3.8L/ flush 

Public Faucet                 1.9L/ min 

Kitchen Sink / basin    8.3L / min

 

Some ideas to reduce water usage by 20% in your spa:

  • Catch rainwater and grey water (showers/washing hand sinks) in tanks and use to flush toilets and irrigation of landscapes
  • Look out for Energy Star accredited hardware like taps, shower heads etc. that is more water efficient. Make sure they are 20% more efficient than the above listed base line. 
  • Use energy efficient washing machines for towels and linen. 
  • Use skin and body products that uses less water and steam during treatments and rather use hot compresses and dissolvable exfoliators that is just as effective. 
  • Maintain your water outlets regularly. Leaking taps and broken faucets and valves can often cause water leakage that increases cost quickly. 
  • Use sensors in public bathroom areas on switch taps on and off. This will prevent tap from releasing water when no one is there anymore. 
  • Use dual flush toilets, so that less water can be used when only urination is performed. 
  • Use air rated shower heads for a low flowing shower head but that still produces enough water for a comfortable shower. 
  • Use only eco friendly products in showers and at hand basins so that the water can be captured and used in your garden. 
  • Educate, educate, educate. Education of your staff and guest regarding the value of water is by far the most important part of keeping your water usage down. Eg. Place signage around your spa at water points, asking them to be more mindful of their water use. 

Sustainable Spa Design – Be Water Wise Read More »

Sustainable Spa Design – Landscaping

Sustainable landscaping is when you consider the whole environment around your project, with the goal to reduce your negative environmental impact, while including features that are beneficial to the natural world and beautiful at the same time. 

Aspects to consider for sustainable landscaping:

  1. Don’t disturb what you don’t have to. Leave trees, plants and rocks where possible to prevent disturbance of the eco system. 
  2. Plan well taking in consideration sun, shade and wind climate of the area
  3. Analyse and improve your soil quality with natural fertilisers
  4. Use indigenous water wise plants to reduce your footprint. Refer to the internet or your local authority to get a list of local plants. 
  5. Plant edible fruit trees like lemons, that can again we used in the spa to flavour your water offerings. Have a herb and vegetable garden, where you can grow the likes of mint, cucumbers, strawberries and blueberry’s to use in your spa cuisine and flavoured teas. 
  6. Appropriate use of grass & lawn areas to break up planted areas. It cools down a space by absorbing sunlight and preventing harsh reflection. 
  7. Make sure you have efficient irrigation and use preferrable a drip system, that can be set according to the water need of each plant. 
  8. Use mulch around large trees to help retain water around the roots. 
  9. Use organic fertilisers and grey water to sustain your landscaping. 
  10. Maintenance of your landscaped area is key. Keep checking taps, irrigation system, dams, ponds etc for any leaks and prevent water wastage.

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Outdoor Spaces

Sustainable Spa Design – Outdoor Spaces

In Africa, we have a rich plant and outdoor environment. From desert sands to tropical palm trees to expansive lakes and coast lines, we are privileged to be surrounded by exceptional natural scenes that many books has been published about. 

It is our responsibility to utilise this exceptional beauty as part of our guest’s wellness journey. Think rooftop decks & terraces to view the sunrise or sunsets, community outdoor spaces to perform group activities like yoga, meditation, and relaxation in, natural rock pools for hydrotherapy and wandering footpaths for silent meandering. 

In these areas you need to focus on using natural materials like wood, copper, eco friendly outdoor furniture and as little plastic as possible. 

Roof top Terrace with relaxation lounge for sunset viewing and jacuzzi.

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