The introverted massage parlor in Shenyang is situated on the third floor of a commercial podium building. The first floor features a single prominent entrance, while the third floor spans nearly 3,000 square meters, offering a spacious, orderly column grid layout with minimal constraints. Designing this expansive third-floor space to feel intimate and inward-focused posed a unique challenge.
▲ Courtyard © Zhang Lei
Miniature City Concept
Our vision was to offer guests a richer spatial experience beyond simply entering and exiting private rooms. The design encourages exploring a ‘miniature city’ within the space. Much like wandering through an urban environment, guests encounter buildings with diverse functions alongside engaging public spaces.
▲ Design concept analysis © Vegetarian architecture
Accordingly, we reorganized the interior space to create a rhythmic flow. Visitors move from the “front yard” at the entrance to a central “colonnade square,” passing through “alleyways” that connect different areas. Private “courtyards” and communal “public buildings” coexist, balancing spatial privacy with open, interactive public areas.
Spatial Organization
Lobby
The first-floor lobby is divided into two zones: exterior and interior. The exterior area serves as the reception, where guests can change their shoes on the left side upon entering. The interior includes the elevator waiting area, allowing guests to access the third-floor massage spaces.
▲ Entrance Hall © Zhang Lei
▲ Shoe Changing Rest Area © Zhang Lei
▲ Front Desk Reception © Zhang Lei
Passage
Inspired by ancient Roman baths, guests pass through arcaded corridors, unveiling the golden-lit space beyond. Outside this illuminated area lies a darker zone featuring a ‘baptismal pool,’ inviting visitors to immerse themselves and enjoy a transformative experience.
▲ Corridor © Zhang Lei
Square
The uniform column grid space is reinterpreted to create several new spatial nodes, enriched by a sequence of twists and turns that add depth and complexity to the environment.
▲ Sketch © Zhang Lei
Basilicas
We designed a three-story atrium serving as a pure social space. Adjustable curtains surrounding it enhance privacy while adding a subtle sense of mystery.
▲ Courtyard Space © Zhang Lei
Bathing Area
Along the north-south axis of the three-story space, a shower room and bathroom are positioned at the end. Public spaces flank both sides of this axis, creating a balanced and rhythmic flow throughout the area.
▲ Shower Room © Zhang Lei
▲ Bathroom © Zhang Lei
Restaurant
After bathing and relaxation, guests can dine at the in-house restaurant, enjoying satisfying meals to complete their experience.
▲ Restaurant © Zhang Lei
Chapel
The former staircase in the logistics area was removed to create an elevated meditation space. This serene corner adds a divine glow to the entire massage facility.
▲ Meditation Space © Zhang Lei
Atmosphere Creation
The massage rooms evoke the feeling of caves, a result of blending interior design with topological elements. This unique spatial experience allows visitors to escape the city’s noise and fully immerse themselves in the present moment.
▲ Guest Rooms © Zhang Lei
Transparent grilles installed on the massage room walls allow natural sunlight from hallways and outdoor spaces to filter through, enhancing both decoration and guidance.
▲ Lighting and Atmosphere Details © Zhang Lei
Warm yellow lighting extends beneath the floor, creating a soft and comforting ambiance. Rounded curves evoke a sense of being embraced and wrapped in relaxation, allowing guests to momentarily escape the world and find healing both physically and mentally.
▲ Architectural Details © Zhang Lei
Entering the spa feels like stepping back in time and space. Dim lighting, brick and stone walls, and wooden furniture together create the mysterious ambiance of an ancient Roman bathhouse. Away from the city’s bustle, guests enjoy gentle music and the soothing aroma of tea, providing an immersive and unparalleled experience.
In this complex world, we carve out a pure sanctuary while also creating a window to the familiar streets and alleys of Shenyang. Stepping beyond the massage space, guests reconnect with everyday life in the city.
Design Drawings
▲ First Floor Plan © Vegetarian architecture
▲ Three-Story Building Plan © Vegetarian architecture
▲ Building Facade © Vegetarian architecture
Project Information
Architectural Design: Primitive Building
Area: 2,184.27 square meters
Project Year: 2022
Photographer: Zhang Lei
Lead Architect & Design Team: Yin Xiaowen, Dong Wen, Du Jie, Cui Ying, Guo Jing, Zhang Wen, Zhao Yang, Ma Lina, Zhao Shengchao, Wang Sijun, Yu Gengwen, Yang Yuhang
Client: Introverted Tuina
Location: Gate 8, No. 23 Changbai East Road, Heping District, Shenyang City, Liaoning Province
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