Solace; Banff Springs Hotel Spa

Our Architecture encompasses and reflects all of the dynamics, personalities and energies of everyone involved in the projects evolution and realization. Solace, the Spa at the Banff Springs provides that spirit of place and the activities that take place within it. It gives human attributes to the built environment.

A Building with Life:

Mind: (spirit of the client) - The architect's goal was to reinforce the uniqueness of the site and, in so doing, enhance the sense of privilege in the minds of the guests. The castle like structure with its waterfalls, skylights and amazing vistas more than fulfill the ability to create dreams in the views of the guests.

Breath: (initial concept) - The LeBlond Partnership situated the spa near the existing main entrance of the hotel. The pride of the location on the bluff of the Bow River, along with its festive design, provide the sense of magic and invitation for such a facility.

Body: (building perception and components) - As the design evolved, skylit waterfalls were created to feed the nurturing water elements into the center of the main space. This water element under this huge skylight in the midst of the Rockies, became the nurturing and strengthening factor throughout the Spa.

Heart: (space) - The Banff Springs Hotel Spa provides for a mind / body experience and the ultimate relationship with the heavens. This structure became symbolic of the universe being illuminated by the sun's energy. The stone piers that support the large dome are representative of society holding up a central and collective sky.

Soul: (LeBlond's philosophy) - The Banff Springs Hotel Spa is a new gravitational force and attraction for the hotel. From it's strategic location, friendliness and majestic quality, people can gather a sense of freedom and intrigue so rare throughout everyday society. This Spa is a living entity of the LeBlond Partnership's philosophy that buildings should be more than materiality; they should be living forces that enhance our lives and nourish our souls.