The Bathhouse Boom: Thermal Wellness Design Secrets

The sauna and thermal wellness boom is transforming the spa and hospitality industry, but are we building bathhouses and thermal experiences that will stand the test of time? As demand for saunas, cold plunges, contrast therapy, and social bathing continues to grow, developers and spa operators are investing in new thermal wellness facilities. But successful hydrothermal design requires much more than choosing the right amenities. From engineering and guest comfort to operational efficiency and profitability, every design decision can impact the long-term success of a facility. In this episode of the StarrCast Podcast, host Lisa Starr welcomes Don Genders, CEO of Design for Leisure, and Jak Westbury, Director of Construction and Aquatic Engineering. Together, they explore what it takes to design exceptional thermal wellness environments that deliver a world-class customer experience, encourage repeat visits, and support sustainable business growth. Drawing on their extensive experience designing and engineering hydrothermal facilities, Don and Jak discuss the evolution of the modern bathhouse, the growing popularity of Aufguss rituals, the importance of ventilation and temperature variety, and why relaxation spaces deserve as much attention as heat and cold experiences. They also share insights into balancing guest expectations, construction costs, and operational realities in today's rapidly expanding thermal wellness market. What You'll Learn: Designing the complete thermal journey: What separates a basic sauna and cold plunge from a thoughtfully designed thermal bathing experience. Creating experiences for a broader audience: Why offering varied temperatures and amenities can improve guest comfort and encourage loyal clientele growth. The engineering behind hydrothermal wellness: How ventilation, heating systems, and facility design influence performance, safety, and guest satisfaction. The importance of hot, cold, rest, repeat: Why relaxation spaces are a critical component of successful thermal wellness design. Building a sustainable thermal wellness business: How thoughtful planning, operational efficiency, and customer experience contribute to long-term profitability. Chapters & Timestamps: 00:00 – Why is thermal wellness booming in the United States? 02:21 – What makes a complete thermal bathing experience? 07:42 – How are modern bathhouses evolving to meet guest expectations? 12:59 – Do extreme sauna and cold plunge temperatures attract more customers? 17:28 – What makes Aufguss sauna design and ventilation so specialized? 24:09 – How do you select the right heaters and equipment for a commercial sauna? 27:10 – Why is the hot, cold, rest, repeat cycle important? 31:01 – How can relaxation spaces improve the thermal guest experience? Meet the Guests: Don Genders | CEO, Design for Leisure A recognized leader in hydrothermal wellness design, Don brings decades of experience developing innovative spa, sauna, and thermal bathing environments worldwide. Jak Westbury | Director of Construction and Aquatic Engineering, Design for Leisure Jak specializes in the design, construction, and technical engineering of hydrothermal facilities, with expertise in creating high-performing thermal environments that balance guest experience with operational requirements. Stay Connected: Subscribe to StarrCast Podcast for expert perspectives, industry insights, and conversations about the future of spa and wellness:    / @wynnebusiness   Visit Wynne Business for Spa Management Education & Expertise: https://wynnebusiness.com Explore Design for Leisure: https://www.designforleisure.com/ What do you think is the most overlooked element in thermal wellness design? Share your thoughts in the comments! #ThermalWellness #SaunaDesign #BathhouseDesign #HydrothermalSpa #SpaAndWellness #StarrCastPodcast