UPON PASSING BENEATH THE VAULTED, ivy-covered arch that beckons guests to the doors of the five-star Hotel Crescent Court, A Rosewood Hotel, in Dallas, visitors are quickly transported from the Deep South into an oasis of European splendor. The hotel is a treasure trove of rich tapestries, glittering chandeliers, smooth marble, and intricately carved furniture that is reminiscent of a stately European palace. This influence doesn't end at the hotel. From the European-inspired menu to the decadent design, The Spa at the Crescent also exudes a distinctly international flair. "The Spa at the Crescent celebrates European spa traditions," says spa director Jennifer Haack. "It is an oasis in the middle of a vibrant city."
The 23,000-square-foot 16-treatment-room spa is located on the hotel's lower level and features an expansive treatment menu offering 77 different services. While many guests take advantage of the ever-popular Swedish Massage ($100, 50 minutes), more adventurous clients enjoy such exotic experiences as the Javanese Lulur Royal Treatment ($225, 110 minutes), a service inspired by the royal palaces of Java; and the Bali Spice Boreh Ritual ($225, 110 minutes), a spice-based remedy for aching joints and sore muscles. Other popular options are the vinotherapy-inspired sessions, such as the Texas Crushed Cabernet Body Scrub ($105, 50 minutes) and the Wine and Honey Wrap ($155, 80 minutes), both of which harness the healing antioxidant power of grapes, and various soothing hydrotherapy treatments. But no matter what they select, Haack says her clients' main goal is to achieve decadent relaxation and effective results. "Most of our spa-goers want to relax," she says. "They want a peaceful escape from their busy schedules. They are also looking for services with impact and want to see a change in their skin or the way they feel."
 Whirlpools and cold plunge pools can be found in both the men's and women's locker rooms. |
Whether it be a hotel guest or local spa-goer, the spa attracts a sophisticated roster of clients who are looking for—and expecting—luxurious perfection. "They are dedicated to taking care of themselves," says Haack. "Most of our guests know what they want and what to expect from a spa. They appreciate our standards of service and the efficacy of the treatments we provide."
 The Hotel Crescent Court is home to the 16-treatment-room Spa at the Crescent. |
Haack says it is her clients' high standards that drive the selection of the products featured at the spa, both in the treatment room and in a retail capacity. Treatments are performed using selections from Comfort Zone, Epicuren, Lady Primrose, MD Formulations, SkinCeuticals, SkinMedica, and Yon-Ka Paris, all of which were chosen for their efficacy. All of the products, as well as a variety of gift items, are available in the spa's boutique. "As we add new products to our assortment, we are looking for companies with products that blend nature with science," she says. "We seek ones that are focused on their effects and presentation, not just pop packaging."
 Clockwise from top left: A host of soothing hydrotherapy sessions are available at the spa; retail gift items, skincare and bodycare products, and more are available for purchase in the spa boutique; the expansive fitness area provides spa-goers with a well-rounded workout experience. |
Keeping up with demand requires adequate staff. The spa can service approximately 250 treatments daily at maximum capacity, however, Haack says a typical day is closer to around 150 to 190 booked services, with an average of 210 to 220 services on Saturdays. There are approximately 65 spa employees on staff, 50 of whom are full time with the remaining being part-time massage therapists.
 A revolving menu featuring low-fat, low-calorie dining options created by the spa's executive chef, as well as a selection of fresh juices and smoothies, are available at the airy Spa Café. |
While hotel guests make up a significant portion of the spa clientele, locals are equally important to the spa team. To cater to these clients, the spa has an exclusive membership option that offers such amenities as discounted treatments, scheduling privileges, valet parking, and reduced hotel rates, as well as access to the property's expansive fitness area. "The Spa at The Crescent is also a club, and the sense of community among the members and guests really sets it apart," says Haack.
 The Spa at the Crescent (Dallas) |
Two other elements that make The Spa at the Crescent stand out in Dallas's booming spa marketplace are the Spa Café and the wide array of fitness options, both of which encourage guests to spend more time in the spa beyond their scheduled appointment times while promoting healthy living. The Spa Café offers a selection of low-fat healthy dining options and fresh-squeezed juices and is a great place to network, says Haack, who adds, "It is also a wonderful venue for bringing in groups, whether it is a girls' day out celebration or a corporate group looking for an activity." Fitness-wise, myriad conditioning workouts, such as group exercise classes, yoga, weight training, and more, as well as education on nutrition and stress management, are available. "Fitness is a foundation for our spa, especially with the local membership," she adds.
This increased focus on health and fitness, as well as the continued importance of efficacious treatments, have created what Haack sees as an opportunity to keep her clients happy and healthy. "We are educating our guests on the importance of what a spa has to offer and how a regular routine of massage, facials, and body treatments can contribute to personal wellness, longevity, and serenity," she says. "Our goal continues to be providing services that are the best available, training our team to be present with each guest, and finding true intent in delivering the spa experience of a lifetime."