Brand Creative unveils Banya Forrest: Tradition Meets Luxury in Serene Wellness

With a rich, timeless tradition, Brand Creative has reimagined the Russian banya—a bathhouse that has been a cornerstone of Slavic culture since 945 AD, serving as communal hubs for relaxation, socialising, and ritualistic cleansing and detoxification.

Dubai’s Banya Forrest in Bluewater Islands Dubai, the first Middle Eastern flagship location outside of the UK and Georgia, represents the pinnacle of a space grounded in tradition but elevated by innovation. Nestled on the seafront of Blue Water Island, it caters predominantly to an expat population and can host up to 200 guests at a time.

The inspiration stems from this rich history; the notion that these sanctuaries were meant for bonding and a rejuvenated sense of well-being. We’ve taken this deeply rooted tradition and given it a contemporary, luxurious twist for the brand’s launch into the Middle Eastern market. This authentic experience honours the past by creating a modern space that attracts and educates a new generation of users into the benefits of a 3-hour long ritual of hot and cold therapies, herbal aromatherapy, the replenishing of electrolytes and lymphatic massage.

They were tasked in merging specialised treated timber (re-purposed and originally sourced from renewable forests in Lebanon – the closest source of Cedar to the UAE) with distinct biophilic design elements from traditional banyas, incorporating textured stone veneer walls, re-purposed wood panels, and cedar logs to evoke the feeling of the Russian forest.

Traditional elements blend with modern forms and techniques like innovative lighting that mimics the twinkling of stars and undulating ceiling designs that convey the flowing of water, whilst curated sounds from nature and music play with the senses.

The use of natural materials like fairtrade cedar logs, grey slate veneer, and backlit green onyx and Calacatta marble infuses the space with an authentic and luxurious feel. The facility boasts the largest steam sauna in the MENA region, handcrafted by Russian technicians to ensure an authentic experience. Modern touches, such as fibre optic LED lights mimicking twinkling stars and flowing water ceiling designs, create a serene and magical atmosphere. Complemented by features like a cold plunge pool, a snow room, and heated marble treatment beds, Banya Forrest offers a comprehensive and immersive wellness journey. The VIP banya rooms, luxurious and private, cater to those seeking an exclusive experience, while the biophilic restaurant provides a detoxifying and nourishing dining experience post-treatment, enhancing the holistic approach to wellness.