Westin redefines wellness through restorative pool and fitness spaces
The fitness and pool amenities at the Westin were reimagined as a cohesive, wellness-focused environment inspired by biophilic principles and the restorative qualities of nature. Organic forms, warm neutral materials, and abundant daylight create spaces that feel contemporary, calm, and inviting. Drawing from the experience of outdoor movement and Mediterranean leisure, the design balances modern minimalism with warmth, subtle playfulness, and spa-adjacent luxury—supporting both vitality and relaxation through a hospitality-inspired lens.
Makarena Alvarez
Emma Bokenfohr
Project Start Date: Jan 2024
Project Completion Date: June 2025
Square Footage: + / - 5,966 sq ft
The Challenge
Existing conditions: The primary challenges included maintaining budget discipline while working within existing site conditions. The building’s age and the absence of as-built drawings required careful coordination and flexible problem-solving throughout the design process.
The Solution
To navigate the complexities of existing site conditions and maintain strict budget control, a Construction Management (CM) delivery model was implemented early in the process. This approach enabled close collaboration between the design team, client, and general contractor from the outset, allowing potential constraints to be identified and addressed proactively.
Early contractor engagement supported continuous cost validation at each phase of design, ensuring transparency and informed decision-making throughout the project. This collaborative framework allowed the team to balance design intent with construction feasibility, adapt to unforeseen conditions, and maintain alignment with both budgetary and scheduling requirements without compromising the overall vision.
The Human-Centred Lens
Hospitality: A self-serve fuel station offering water, towels, and healthy snacks supports convenience and wellness within the fitness space.
Residential: Comfortable lounge seating upholstered in soft, durable vinyls designed for wet environments, paired with authentic materials such as real stone flooring sealed for moisture resistance.
Wellness: Abundant daylight and City views, improved air circulation, and operable windows introduce fresh air and reinforce a strong connection to the outdoors.
Key Features
State-of-the-art Finnish-style sauna
Designed to offer an authentic wellness experience, the Finnish‑style sauna blends modern performance with serene ambiance. It elevates relaxation through thoughtful detailing and premium materials.
Pool environment enhanced with custom-designed furniture tailored specifically for the space
Bespoke furniture enhances both comfort and aesthetic, tailored specifically to the proportions and flow of the pool environment. Each piece supports effortless lounging and complements the space with cohesive design.
Integrated rest and recovery zones that promote relaxation and longevity
Dedicated rest and recovery areas are crafted to support relaxation and rejuvenation before or after activity. These zones use intentional design to promote calm, comfort, and overall well‑being.
Hydration Station island at Fitness
A central Hydration Station encourages wellness and boosts energy throughout workouts. Strategically located for convenience, it supports hydration with purpose‑built functionality and design.
Results
Project Credits
Engineers: Mechanical-Chris Saunders, The Hidi Group; Electrical-Effie Stamatis, The Hidi Group; Structural-Randy Thesen, Entuitive; Building Envelope-Heather Elliot, Entuitive
Contractors: Leading Edge Developments-Casey Mallat
Furniture: Custom-designed by Leading Edge Developments-Casey Mallat
Landlord: BarneyRiver-Enrico Albani
Project Lead: Makarena Alvarez
Project Designer: Emma Bokenfohr
Photography: Christina Yao
