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The treatment rooms are designed to calm and comfort guests. -
OSB panelling at the spa entrance forms a backdrop for the decorative vessel by Astrid von Brucken – one of many ceramic works to be found in the space. -
In the relaxation area, a wall of reclaimed glass bricks distorts and softens the light. -
The contemporary Fitness Centre overlooks the indigenous gardens. -
Finished in stone-like concrete, the dramatic yet intimate Rasul Chamber feels almost like a cavern. -
Finished in stone-like concrete, the dramatic yet intimate Rasul Chamber feels almost like a cavern.
WORDS Michaela Stehr
Local design studio Ohkre Collective has added a chic restorative spa and gym to Hout Bay’s Future Found Sanctuary – an eco-space that celebrates relaxation and rejuvenation.
Tucked into the Hout Bay hills, Future Found Sanctuary is a luxury retreat designed to transport you from the rat race to a space that nurtures and awakens your weary soul.
Founded by brand builder Jim Brett, the private escape intends to provide guests with a transformational stay that evokes a sense of wonder, thought and quiet contemplation through design and experiences.
Local architecture and interior design studio Ohkre Collective, headed by Phillip Nel, was commissioned to build the development’s new Fitness Centre and Sensorium Spa, forming part of Jim’s vision for an immersive and wholesome holistic retreat. Phillip’s team had to transform the back-of-house utility area that had serviced the villa into a rejuvenating space that reflects nature and calms guests seeking to escape the urban frazzle of day-to-day stress.
READ MORE: 3 Unique Local and International Spas for Rejuvenation
“At Future Found Sanctuary, they aspire to embrace all aspects of being – body, mind, heart and soul – and offer retreats to align you to nature’s rhythms: rise, realign, reflect and rest,” Phillip explains. “We were inspired by that philosophy, and we believe we created a space that evokes an experience of ‘whole being’, guided by nature. It feels effortless and balanced, and speaks of timeless luxury.”
Putting the natural inspiration into practice, Ohkre looked to use natural tones and unconventional materials drawn from the surrounding landscape. “Right from the initial client brief, we explored and investigated the use of alternative materials and techniques,” says Phillip.
In this spirit, discarded glass bricks collected from a building site in town mimic the feeling of water. “The bricks were used to replace existing window openings, creating privacy,” says Phillip. “Inside, the light distorts, making playful, water-like shadows in the relaxation area and one of the treatment rooms.” A bespoke terrazzo basin, made by adding stones gathered from the surrounding mountainside, was placed as a focal point in the central changing and bathroom facilities. Terracotta tiles by Kalki Ceramics from Durban bring a rich splash of colour and texture to the wet areas, while ceramics crafted by local ceramicists Amelia, Ash Ceramics, Astrid von Brucken and Phillip himself add layers of natural, bespoke decoration.
The result? A calming combination of local craftsmanship and innovative materials used in a cohesive language that speaks of place, well-being and nature.
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