Bringing the Outside In
“ The expansive open space and large windows set The Spa at the Woodstock Inn & Resort apart from other facilities ,” says Spa Director Khim Neang .“ From the moment guests walk into the spa , they are invited into the natural beauty and light that Vermont has to offer . The space is completely centered around bringing the outside in . Using a soft white paint on the walls — to reflect the natural light through the large windows as it changes during the day — sets the mood in each space . The absence of 90 degree angles between the walls and ceilings helps give a soft , warm and fluid feeling even with no color in the design . These intentional design elements make for a truly wonderful guest experience .”
The entrance to the spa invites guests into the lobby and retail area . As they are welcomed , guests can immediately lower their shoulders and breathe deeply due to the warmth of the space , the beauty of the design and the delightful eucalyptus aromatherapy . Guests also enjoy the coziness of the Shaker woodstoves burning in the lobby and Great Room during the colder seasons . In the spring and summer , the space is brightened with fresh flowers from the resort ’ s organic Kelly Way Gardens .
“ I love walking into the room ... Our lobby and retail space are one , helping our guests feel invited to look through what products we carry .”
A Locally Sourced Retail Experience
“ Our retail space is simple , open and uncluttered ,” Neang reports with pride .“ I love walking into the room because even during a busy day , I can allow myself to stay open . That is very important because we can ’ t serve from a place of being closed and confined . This allows us to be natural with our guests and carry their spa experience through to the retail offerings . Our lobby and retail space are one , helping our guests feel invited to look through what products we carry .”
To make the retail experience even more local , Neang touts the spa ’ s sourcing , from the architecture to the treatment room .“ We partner with our local vendors in both the interior design of the spa and the retail products we use in our treatments . In our retail space , we carry local brands including a Vermont skincare line , hand-poured candles and jewelry . In the spa ’ s Great Room , we feature Simon Pearce , world-renowned Vermont-based glassmaker who created hand blown lights that suspend from the tall ceilings . We also partner with Farmhouse Pottery , based in Woodstock , Vermont . Their custom-built farmhouse table , crafted from New England Ash , is a perfect addition to our Great Room . Farmhouse Pottery ’ s handmade clay bowls and vases are also utilized throughout the spa .” n
JANUARY 2023 n PULSE 53