Nowadays, exterior spas seem to be taking a more important place in our life compared to traditional theme parks like the emblematic Coney Island in New York City or the one here on St-Helen’s Island. Instead of being toppled around or facing sensational thrills, the body is massaged and taken care of for its own well being. Some thrills remain however, as when passing from a steaming hot bath to an ice cold one, a small amount of courage is still required. Lost paradise sometimes seems to be getting closer and closer. The Chevalier Morales version of this new type of playground for the body offers a sensitive contemporary design. Three separate buildings are placed delicately on the manmade topography and look out onto the lake. Situated at the south end of Nun’s Island this new compound consists of three buildings anchored into the sloping terrain at different levels.
The principal building houses reception, administrative offices, a bistro, massage rooms and change rooms. Two smaller buildings house a Turkish bath and a Finish sauna, each with their integrated solarium. The buildings are organized around a network of exterior baths that are positioned in order to maximize views over the lake and to favour a varied and intimate experience full of discoveries, where the organization of the landscape participates actively in the experience of the place. Covered in clay grey brick - a Nun’s Island requirement - and white wood, the buildings exude calm and serenity. Brass elements like strange sculptures, gargoyles and interior furniture are making reference to all piping, hid underground or in mechanical rooms, responsible for the magical experience that offers the spa. At night, the blend of neon lights, LED lighting and flames of torches illuminate the surreal decor lightly touched by pinks and light blues, reminiscent of theme park childhood memories. When the snow falls in winter, the experience attains its climax.
