SPA DESIGN

DROMOLAND CASTLE SPA

A harmonious blend of heritage and contemporary wellness in the heart of County Clare

Project Overview
Set within the storied grounds of a 16th-century estate in County Clare, the Dromoland Castle Spa project called for a unique approach to luxury spa design in Ireland. Our mission was to craft a wellness experience that reflected the castle’s regal heritage while introducing modern amenities and natural tranquility. The result is a timeless sanctuary that merges historical elegance with restorative modernity.

Deliverables
Spa interior design • Space planning • Sensory spa garden • Integration of historical architectural elements​

The Challenge
Designing a spa within the historic grounds of Dromoland Castle presented a delicate balance of old and new. The project demanded a thoughtful approach that preserved and complemented the castle’s heritage architecture, while introducing world-class wellness facilities with sensitivity and purpose. We needed to create an immersive and calming environment grounded in nature, without disrupting the historic character of the building. At the same time, the space had to feel functional, luxurious and inclusive for a wide variety of discerning guests.

Our Approach
Our design philosophy focused on storytelling – connecting the legacy of Dromoland Castle with the healing power of nature and contemporary wellness principles.

Spa Interior Design

To create a tranquil sanctuary within the historic walls of Dromoland Castle, we intentionally departed from the castle’s traditional rich colours. Instead, we embraced a palette of soft, natural tones – think warm neutrals, and gentle earth hues – to evoke a sense of calm and rejuvenation. This contrast was designed to offer guests a distinct sensory experience, differentiating the spa from the castle’s opulent interiors.​

We curated a palette of natural stone, timber, and marble, complemented by opulent gold accents, to craft an atmosphere of refined tranquility. This combination fosters a connection to nature while reflecting the castle’s grandeur. The design elements harmoniously blend contemporary spa aesthetics with subtle nods to Dromoland Castle’s storied heritage, offering guests a serene yet luxurious retreat.​

Overall, the spa’s interior design offers a harmonious blend of modern wellness principles and respectful homage to the castle’s storied past, providing a unique and restorative experience for every guest.

Space Planning

We devised a layout that supports a natural and restorative guest flow. The thermal suite, cocooned in a cave-like setting, features immersive thermal cabins, while hydropools and loungers beneath a glass roof offer guests a visual connection to the outdoors. Medieval influences and architectural details ensure a seamless transition between wellness experiences and the castle’s historic structure.

Sensory Spa Garden

The spa experience extends outdoors into a thoughtfully designed sensory garden. Guests are invited to explore forest bathing paths, engage in sensory strolls, or relax in meditation pods floating on a lily pond. A historic stone temple was transformed into a sound bath sanctuary, offering space for gong and singing bowl therapies surrounded by nature.

The Solution
The final design for the Dromoland Castle Spa is a seamless integration of heritage and holistic wellness. From the thermal experiences and interior palette to the outdoor sensory rituals, every element was curated to deliver a cohesive and meaningful journey. The result is a restorative spa that speaks to both the majesty of the past and the serenity of modern spa design.