Lava e Sal spa opens in Poland

A new Polish spa has opened in Masuria, Ostróda, part of the Sosnówka Hotel Lake Hill Resort.

The 490sqm spa embraces the properties of lava and salt – salt as a symbol of purification and detoxification, lava symbolising regeneration, sensuality, awareness and self-acceptance.

Facilities include eight treatment rooms, a Watsu zone (pictured above), a Finnish sauna by Asenso, a hammam, a mud bath and a lounge area.

In the Watsu zone there is a climatic whirlpool with hydromassage, and a dry sauna.

The hammam provides a counterpoint to the rest of the complex, filled with mirages created by beams of light penetrating into the domed ceiling.

The Lava Spot is a multifunctional room for yoga, meditation and sound therapy.

Salt to cleanse, lava to energise

“Our philosophy is to find a balance between what is outside and inside,” said spa owner Kasia Sokołowska. “You can’t escape, but you can relax, give yourself time and pleasure.

“I trust in the therapeutic power of good design and art that surrounds us. Our original rituals are a journey. Salt will cleanse, prepare you for the journey and stimulate your imagination. Lava gives energy and satisfies the senses.”

Lava e Sal interiors

Interior architect Agnieszka Brzostek of the Polish AB Concept Design studio devised interiors to embody a natural sensuality, drawing inspiration from the earthy tones of lava and mud.

“The selection of colours has an intimate and soothing effect on wellbeing. It organically helps regulate emotional levels, evoking a sense of security and harmony,” said Brzostek, a Kracow-based interior designer.

“My intention for the spa was to give the space an authentic sense of closeness to nature,” she added.

The exception lies in the manicure and pedicure studio and the hammam, which is bathed in light. This is created by the interplay of water vapour and streaks of light filtering through a dome above.

“The most important thing for me is the cohesive atmosphere of the interior,” added Brzostek.

“Massive doors made of rolled steel resemble gates. Just behind them, we immerse ourselves in semi-darkness. Before our eyes adjust to the lower light levels, we enter an abyss.

“This initial uncertainty quickly gives way to a feeling of soothing balance, which only deepens over time.”

Local art and ceramics

The spa features an extensive collection of art and ceramics from the Polish artist Olga Milczyńska alongside graphics from the illustrator Małgorzata Herba and photographs by Agata Serge.

The spa furniture was designed by Brzostek, treatment beds were supplied by Nova Group and Wave Balance.

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