Design for Leisure: Company Profile

Background

Overview

Design for Leisure (DFL) specializes in the design of award-winning hydrothermal spa and wellness environments. With over three decades of experience, DFL has been creating high-end, turnkey wet spa areas for both luxury homes and professional wellness projects. The company operates from its headquarters in London, UK, and Austin, TX, USA. Notable clients include hospitality and spa brands such as Accor, Disney, Canyon Ranch, Caesars Palace, Four Seasons, and Six Senses, as well as renowned architectural firms like Foster and Partners, Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners, Bjarke Ingels Group, Michael Graves, and Thomas Heatherwick.

Mission and Vision

DFL's mission is to enhance well-being through the creation of exceptional hydrothermal experiences that blend ancient bathing practices with modern design and technology. The company's vision is to be a global leader in spa and wellness design, delivering innovative and culturally relevant hydrothermal environments that promote health and relaxation.

Industry Significance

As a pioneer in hydrothermal spa design, DFL has significantly influenced the wellness industry by integrating traditional bathing rituals with contemporary design elements. The company's expertise has set industry standards for luxury spa environments, making it a sought-after partner for high-profile projects worldwide.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

• Innovation in Design: Continuously developing unique and culturally relevant hydrothermal experiences.

• Quality Excellence: Ensuring the highest standards in design, materials, and construction.

• Client Collaboration: Working closely with clients to realize their vision while providing expert guidance.

Areas of Specialization

• Hydrothermal Spa Design: Crafting bespoke spa environments that incorporate saunas, steam rooms, hammams, and hydrotherapy pools.

• Wellness Integration: Designing spaces that promote holistic well-being through thermal experiences.

• Residential and Commercial Projects: Providing tailored solutions for both private residences and commercial establishments.

Key Technologies Utilized

• Advanced Design Software: Utilizing tools like AutoCAD and Revit for precise planning and visualization.

• Sustainable Materials: Incorporating eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient systems.

• Innovative Construction Techniques: Employing specialized methods to withstand extreme temperatures and humidity.

Primary Markets Targeted

• Luxury Hospitality: High-end hotels and resorts seeking unique spa experiences.

• Residential Wellness: Private homeowners desiring personalized spa environments.

• Commercial Wellness Facilities: Gyms, wellness centers, and spas aiming to offer premium services.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

DFL is a privately held company and has not publicly disclosed detailed financial information or funding history. The company has experienced significant growth, including a doubling of its staff in 2024 to meet increasing demand.

Recent Developments

• Expansion: In 2024, DFL expanded its operations by acquiring a 12,000-square-foot building in Texas to accommodate growth.

• Leadership Appointments: The company appointed Rony Genders as Director overseeing the UK Design Studio and Todd Copeland as National Sales Director in the USA.

Leadership Team

• Rony Genders: Director of the UK Design Studio, overseeing creative direction and project delivery.

• Todd Copeland: National Sales Director in the USA, responsible for strategic client engagement and market expansion.

Pipeline Development

Key Projects

• TCU Athletics Human Performance Center: Designing a custom snow room and sauna to enhance athlete recovery.

• Palm Heights, Grand Cayman: Creating a unique open-air thermal spa experience.

• University of Texas Football Training Facility: Incorporating a custom KLAFS sauna into the team's training environment.

• WinStar Spa: Featuring the largest European-style hydrotherapy pool in the U.S.

• Cedar Spa: A 10,000-square-foot spa offering traditional and unique spa therapies.

• The Maybourne Riviera Spa: The Maybourne Hotel Group's first French hotel spa.

• The Spa at Four Seasons Fort Lauderdale: A 1,300-square-foot spa with luxurious hydrothermal amenities.

• Civana: Featuring the first KLAFS SANARIUM® in the U.S.

• Fairmont Spa Century Plaza: A 14,000-square-foot spa addition to the iconic hotel.

• Awana Spa Resorts World: Introducing the first event sauna in the U.S.

• Faena Hotel & Spa: Featuring one of the largest hammams in the U.S.

• Cache Creek Casino Resort: A 12,000-square-foot spa with 11 treatment rooms and hydrotherapy pools.

• Canyon Ranch Las Vegas: A Forbes Travel Guide 2018 award-winning spa.

• The Spa at Villa La Coste: An award-winning hotel and spa in Provence, France.

• Zemi Beach House Hotel & Spa: Awarded "World's Best New Resort Spa in 2016" by World Spa Awards.

• Nizuc Resort & Spa: The first ESPA-branded spa in the Mexican Caribbean.

• Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai: Awarded "2017 Best Destination Spa" by Haute Grandeur Global Spa Awards.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

DFL collaborates with leading spa and wellness suppliers to integrate advanced technologies into their designs. Notable partners include: