Since the pandemic, many of our ‘third spaces’ have disappeared. As a result, a lot of people are now forced to make compromises when socialising. Whether that’s going to a bar that’s too loud for conversation, meeting friends at a restaurant when you’d rather be lazing by a pool, or walking on treadmills together at a stuffy, stressful gym, the third space is anywhere that isn’t home or work, where you can socialise.
But what if a spa could become the ultimate third space?
With infinity pools, sun loungers, workout classes, drinks and snacks, the spa is the perfect third space, allowing your visitors to socialise and relax in a calm, tranquil space, with none of the outside noise, clutter, or chaos.
The Downside Of Traditional Third Spaces
Some people love the sound and rush of busy spaces. Spending time in traditional third spaces such as pubs or restaurants can be great, but there’s only so many hours in a day, and a lot of people really want to prioritise relaxation, especially in 2025, where we now place a much higher premium on being in nature, slowing down, getting away from crowds and screens, and letting our mind and body truly rest.
For those who want to catch up with friends over cocktails, a bar is dark and crowded, and visitors have to deal with a lot of shouting over the loud music, watered-down and overpriced drinks, and potentially the odd drunk customer who makes it difficult for everyone!
Restaurants often rush customers with their ‘one in, one out’ approach. Wait times for meals can be long, and then there is the travel back home afterwards.
And on a sunny day, a park can be a great hangout spot for friends, but you have to pack your own food unless you’re fine to go hungry, and then deal with the clean up afterwards.
Some people want nothing more than to meet up with friends or family after a long week at work, but if it’s a toss up between that or decompressing at a luxury spa, that’s not a difficult decision!
Fortunately, it doesn’t have to be one or the other.
Spas As Third Spaces
Choosing between your wellbeing and your social life is no longer one or the other. Now, anyone can choose both.
For anyone who’s looking for a third space that’s quiet enough for conversation, isn’t dependent on the weather, provides refreshments and also absolutely prioritises relaxation and wellbeing, a spa is a great choice. You can offer a range of treatments to promote relaxation, and then direct guests over to the pool where they can be served drinks of their choice. It’s just like being on holiday, but within a convenient drive away from home at the end of the day or weekend.
Many spas have quiet restaurants or cafes attached. So, once they’ve finished catching up in the sauna or relaxing with a massage, visitors can chat over a coffee, a salad bowl, or a beer.
With their beautiful décor, stunning surroundings, well-chosen amenities and focus on enjoyment, spas are a setting that allows visitors to strike that perfect balance between socialising and relaxing.
Transforming Your Spa Into A Hang Out Space
Thinking about how visitors will use your spa can help you tailor the space to better suit your clientele. For example, with more people using spas as third spaces, you may find fewer guests come alone. Providing small social spaces where groups of two, three or even four people can relax between treatments will help visitors connect with friends and family during their visit. Arranging your treatment rooms so multiple people can enjoy massages and therapies at the same time will allow guests to spend even more time with their loved ones.
You could also consider offering group discounts. Making it more affordable for small groups to enjoy a spa day could help to attract people who prefer peace, quiet and tranquillity to crowded bars, expensive restaurants and late nights.
Get In Touch With The Expert Spa Consultants
To learn more about creating a welcoming, social environment in your spa and building a space that all visitors will love, get in touch with a member of our expert team today.
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