Evian Spa in Shanghai gets an A+ for Design
- Published: Monday, April 30th 2007
- in Living Well
A visit to the Evian Spa at Three on the Bund was on my list of “must do’s” while I was in Shanghai. Not only did its opening several years ago cause quite a splash, but Alexa Brue reviewed it in the May/June issue of Luxury Spa Finder Magazine, giving it a mixed review which meant I wasn’t planning on dropping off any magazines during my visit.
Alexa had found that her facial was much better than the one her friend received, and that of course means an uneven experience. She did give the spa raves for decor.
I had the concierge at my hotel call to make the appointment so they didn’t know who I was when I visited. I had also decided to have a facial. Happily my experience was positive for both the treatment and the decor. The facial was terrific (they use Clarins) and the aesthetician very nurturing – and yes, I did get a foot and hand massage as well. My only complaint was that the facial was given on a massage table where I was lying flat on my back with no pillow under my legs and no elevation for my torso. I’m OK in that position but I know it could be uncomfortable for many. It is interesting that they would miss such an important detail so easy to correct.
I learned that there are now three Evian Spas, one in France, this one in Shanghai, and one which just opened in Argentina.
The decor really does work – simple, mesmerizing, lots of white curtains, acrylic chairs, white lockers, candle light, white relaxation chairs with white comforters, white flowers, each treatment room wall with a unique texture and design. Mine had dramatic black and white marble (think cow) floor to ceiling. This spa’s decor is an example of such creative, dramatic yet simple design, taking in the space is a large part of the experience. It just works so well that it trumps any small hiccups in the service.
