A 5,000m² spa and wellness centre made in lava stone for Shinsegae is being built on the tenth floor of a building in the heart of the city, and includes a restaurant, gym, treatment room, thermarium and swimming pool.

Strong perspective lines, enhanced by the solidity and character of the stone (originally created by fire) focus the eye and calm the mind. Curving forms echo the abstract lines of the body, and the weight of the stone increases the awareness of one’s physical self: movements become slow and measured, with a sense of ritual and serene, timeless beauty.

The gravity of the lava stone and the solid weight of the low geometric forms are balanced by the space, light and water compositions – giving the feeling of movement, of being in touch with the natural elements, and a sense of wellbeing.

The city is seen through an expanse of glass – silenced as if through meditation.