Time To Remodel Your Spa? Whether You're ready for a complete overhaul or a simple spruce-up, a little careful, long-term planning goes a long way toward keeping your ideas, goals, costs, and timing under control.
Jenny Dugan, project manager for the interior design group at Belvedere USA Corporation, offers the following guidelines for organizing your next remodeling project.
 The Spa at The Broadmoor (Colorado Springs, CO) recently underwent an expansion and renovation, which included the reception area and Serenity Shower. |
2. Put your design team in place. Start talking to your design team at least six to eight months prior to your remodeling start date. In addition to recommendations and word of mouth, a good source for design assistance is your equipment distributor.
3. Get everything in writing. Once your floorplan and designs are finalized, start interviewing general contractors. Make sure all details are confirmed in writing, including start and finish dates, colors, furniture, and associated costs.
4. Take care of details in advance. Set meetings with the designer and contractor throughout the process, particularly if you're staying open during the remodeling. Doing this ensures you'll be able to service your customers comfortably and professionally from the start of the project to completion.
5. Allow for unexpected delays. Begin the purchasing process for your furniture and equipment at least 90 days before your expected opening. This should provide an ample cushion of time for any backorders or other delays.
6. Roll out the red carpet. Finally, be sure to make the most of your remodeling by issuing a press release or holding media days announcing your new space.
For more information on remodeling, call (800) 435-5491 or visit www.belvedere.com.
Words to grow by
"Everybody loves a good story. When you create spa treatments that tell a tale about your business, you motivate employees while developing a marketing tool that delights clients and brings them back. Incorporate your history, architecture, decor, or famous clientele to give everyday treatments a new twist. If you manage a resort spa, for instance, and the resort is known for its gardens, like we have at Lake Austin Spa Resort, develop a treatment using some of the property's many herbs and flowers. Turn a Swedish massage into a signature treatment that showcases the therapeutic herbs and flowers from the gardens. We allow guests to select one that meets their needs, and it forms the principal part of our signature treatment. The goal is to encourage a sense of pride among employees while offering clients something fun, special, and specific to your spa." —Sherrie Huebner, spa director, Lake Austin Spa Resort (Austin, TX)