Why does everyone suddenly want to open a bathhouse, and why is design the make or break factor?
In this episode of StarrCast, we unpack the real drivers behind the bathhouse and social wellness boom and explore what it actually takes to design a space that is viable, code compliant, and built to last.
Host Lisa Starr sits down with three global experts to break down bathhouse design from the inside out, covering infrastructure, flow, hygiene, materials, mechanical systems, and guest experience. This conversation is essential listening for anyone exploring social wellness, hydrothermal spaces, or large scale spa development.
What You’ll Learn:
- Why bathhouses and social wellness clubs are resurging in North America and globally
- The biggest design and infrastructure mistakes new bathhouse owners make
- How water, ventilation, mechanical systems, and waterproofing drive cost and feasibility
- What “flow” really means in bathhouse design and how it impacts revenue and safety
- How hygiene, maintenance, and guest perception influence long term success
Episode Highlights:
- 03:14 – Why bathhouses are booming and what is actually driving demand
- 09:42 – Social wellness clubs vs traditional spas and why the distinction matters
- 16:30 – When to talk about budget and why early education is critical
- 24:18 – Water, drainage, ventilation, and mechanical systems you cannot ignore
- 34:06 – Hygiene, health codes, and how guests judge cleanliness instantly
- 44:21 – Designing for flow, capacity, and the full guest journey
- 53:10 – Quiet vs social spaces and how design shapes behavior
Meet the Guests:
Ali McQuaid
Founder and Creative Director of Future Studio, a Toronto based interior design firm focused on forward thinking spaces that respond to evolving lifestyles and wellness needs.
Alberto Carrillo
Senior Associate at Meridian Design in New York City, specializing in architectural planning, code compliance, and complex wellness environments.
Don Genders
Founder and CEO of Design for Leisure, a global leader in designing award winning hydrothermal spa and social wellness environments.
Tools, Frameworks, or Strategies Mentioned:
- Social wellness club design models
- Hydrothermal and bathing infrastructure planning
- Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing coordination for wet environments
- Capacity and egress analysis for bathhouse safety
- Long term maintenance and hygiene planning
Closing Insight:
“Design the purpose, not the code.” This episode makes one thing clear. Successful bathhouses are not built on aesthetics alone. They are built on deep technical planning, realistic budgets, and a clear understanding of how people move, gather, and care for shared wellness spaces.
Looking for expert advice in Spa Consulting, with live training and online learning?
Spa Consulting: wynnebusiness.com/spa-management-consulting
Live Training: wynnebusiness.com/live-education
Online Learning: wynnebusiness.com/spa-management-courses
Other Links:
Connect with:
Ali McQuaid: linkedin.com/in/ali-mcquaid-67b24316
Alberto Carrillo: https://www.linkedin.com/in/albertocarrillod/
Don Genders: linkedin.com/in/don-genders-7a97716
Follow Lisa on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisastarrwynnebusiness
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