A leader in the wellness industry, Nordik Spa-Nature has built a reputation for unique relaxation experiences within its facilities. In 2010, Nordik Spa-Nature retained GPP Architecture and ft3 to design the first Nordic spa for the Canadian Prairies in Winnipeg, MB.

Thermëa by Nordik Spa-Nature is located within the existing Crescent Drive Municipal Golf Course, consisting of a main building and five independent pavilions surrounded by an open courtyard featuring several hot tubs, tempered baths, and a cold plunge pool.

While emanating a Scandinavian sensibility, the design theme took inspiration from Manitoba's rural farmyards in the execution of the courtyard and rustic buildings. The main structure houses a massage wing, locker rooms, reception, a restaurant (with an outdoor patio), and the new golf services clubhouse. We also aimed for a seamless transition from exterior to interior environments. The pavilions include a dry sauna, steam rooms, relaxation rooms and a gazebo that accompany the outdoor amenities and sun catchment areas, creating a heat therapy treatment where visitors alternate between hot and cold temperatures, followed by a rest period (thermal cycle). 

A significant characteristic of Nordik Spa-Nature is the facility's location within the natural environment. We underscored this characteristic by employing natural materials such as wood, stone, water, and fire to create a welcoming and warm oasis of relaxation while challenging guests' sense of place within an urban environment. 

Sustainability remained crucial to Thermëa's construction, and we used recycled and reclaimed wood, stone, and earth materials in addition to fabricated products that blended neatly with locally sourced natural materials.