Designing Tranquillity: How Studio Traces Brought Traditional Bathing to Perth CBD.

How’s the serenity? A fresh wellness spot in Perth‘s CBD, Ember Bath House it’s not just another day spa but a sensory journey that might just make you forget the outside world exists. Tucked away in a giant concrete warehouse, this place is serving up some serious zen vibes with a side of brutalist cool. Working closely with the founders, Studio Traces’ design blends Japanese Onsen and Turkish Hammam influences in a space that brings a modern twist to time-honoured bathing traditions.

From the moment you cross the threshold (fancy word for door, but hey, we’re feeling luxe), Ember Bath House wraps you up like a warm, fluffy towel of calm. Creative Director Tracy Zorich and Interior Designer Phoebe Allen of Studio Traces cleverly deployed a scheme of light and dark tones. From the entrance to inner sanctums containing cold and warm mineral plunge pools, a steam room, a Finnish sauna, and spa treatment rooms, the spatial progression aims to shift guests gently from the hustle of city life to a calmer state of mind.

Local materials play a starring role in the design, reflecting a focus on sustainability and regional sourcing. Rocks from a nearby quarry are a key feature while existing joinery has found new life, reducing waste. The team also collaborated with local artisans to create bespoke elements like hand-crafted vessel basins, adding a touch of artistry to the space.

This Cosmetic Clinic in WA by Nickolas Gurtler Takes Notes from a Perfume Bottle.

Nickolas Gurtler has transformed this cosmetic clinic in Western Australia, inspired by the classic star shaped Thierry Mugler ‘Angel’ perfume bottle—have a google if you don’t recall, you’ll know the one.

Tracy Zorich, Creative Director at Studio Traces, shares her thoughts on design’s impact: “Design has the ability to affect this experience within us, when holistic detailing, together with envisioning the emotive response of the client, how the darkness, lightness, materiality and volume of space connect to us within.” This philosophy shines through in the thoughtful approach to lighting, spatial volumes, and material choices throughout the bathhouse.

The 18-month development involved close teamwork between Studio Traces, the builders, and various local suppliers. This hands-on approach allowed for quick decision-making and attention to detail in bringing the project to life.

While Ember Bath House is drop-dead gorgeous, no doubt about it, it’s more than just a pretty face. This place is working overtime to make you feel good from the inside out. It’s like they’ve tapped into some secret formula that makes you instantly relax, ground yourself, and breathe a little deeper. As Tracy eloquently puts it, “It is this deep level of understanding, an almost energy connection to the end user, that is the mark, or the future thinking for an interior to contribute to wellness, that is exceptional.” Couldn’t have said it better myself, Tracy.

Four Spa KAFD: A Serene Retreat in Riyadh's Financial Hub by Nebras Aljoaib Creative Studio.

Situated in the bustling King Abdullah Financial District in Riyadh, this 380sqm space offers a tranquil escape that elevates the typical day spa typology via refined materials and visceral textures.

(L) Phoebe Allen & (R) Tracy Zorich of Studio Traces.

[Images courtesy of Studio Traces. Photography by Dion Robeson.]