22 Sep 2014
Andrew Gibson opens first FRHI spa since his appointment in January
BY Helen Andrews
FRHI Hotels & Resort’s Raffles Istanbul opened earlier this month on the European side of Istanbul, Turkey, at the heart of the new Zorlu Center – a high fashion, performance, fine food and arts bazaar.
The 181-bedroom hotel, which has sweeping views over the Bosphorus and the Prince Islands, features a Raffles Spa – the first spa by FRHI to open under vice president of spa and wellness for FRHI, Andrew Gibson. He was formerly group director of spa for the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group.
“There are big differences in the way Mandarin Oriental and FRHI open hotels, but both have a very professional approach to opening and have a mark of luxury that is outstanding,” Gibson told Spa Opportunities.
The 3,2291.7sq ft (2,300sq m) Raffles Spa comprises seven treatment rooms and two couples’ suites in addition to two swimming pools – one inside and one outdoors – and three Turkish hammams. There are also male and female relaxation areas with saunas, steamrooms, whirlpools, experience showers and ice fountains located within the facility.
Gibson said the spa team for the Raffles Istanbul Spa had already been appointed before he joined FRHI. The design of the spa had also been completed by The Gallery HBA, London. “One of the advantages connected with the timing of this opening was that it forced us to focus on the branding of Raffles spa and to determine what it would deliver and where it would be positioned in the market,” commented Gibson. “From this, the entire collateral for Raffles Spa was produce and now stands as a template for the brand to use.”
Other wellness components include two hair and nail salons, a fitness centre with a yoga and Pilates studio, plus personal training services.
House products in use at the spa, chosen by Gibson, include The Organic Pharmacy and Gazelli Skincare. The signature treatment by The Organic Pharmacy – created by co-founder of the product company Margo Marrone – is a rose, honey and sugar hammam experience that lasts 60 minutes. Gazelli Skincare therapies include a two and a half hour white oil treatment, facials and body rituals.
Gibson explained that the target market is wealthy individuals eager to see Istanbul, including those visiting the Zorlu Center. “The spa and wellness elements have been designed to accommodate memberships and visits by local residents – these will make up a significant section of the spa’s business,” said Gibson.
“One of our plans is to link a concept of personal shopping to the spa – where the retailers will visit the spa and demonstrate and display for guests,” Gibson added.
The hotel also features two restaurants and three bars.
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