Layla Donnelly

Interior & Environmental Design BDes (Hons)

A watersport wellness retreat inspired to reconnect people to nature through the use of water and light.

About

photograph of Layla Donnelly

Pier Pressure is making a splash with aqua therapy. It is a conceptual initiative founded on how people are able to connect through the use of water therapy. It represents a fun and active way to help those who struggle with their mental or physical health. The project seeks to challenge people to try new things and experience the water’s natural calming properties, instead of focusing on their own internal pressures.

The concept is built upon the idea of “lightships”, and their historical use to guide and navigate people through the dark like traditional lighthouses and to allow the reconnection through the use of water. Having a water-based sports retreat on the Tay, al- lows people to use the natural light from sunrise to sunset, as a personal experience as well as the water activities. The retreat focuses on a range of water-based activities such as kayaking, paddle-boarding and open-water swimming, along with amenities like an outdoor pool, steam, and sauna rooms. These activities offer the participants an opportunity through stimulation and positive energy to escape their anxieties, within a calm setting promoting self rejuvenation.

It allows the reconnection of the body and mind through the use of water. Water therapy provides a number physiological benefits that create a soothing effect on both the body and mind. Research indicates that being in, on, under or near water can make you happier, healthier and make’s you feel more connected to the elements of nature.

Indoor open-water dock

An indoor open-water dock with kayakers and paddle-boarders coming out from. With windows on both side showing onto the sea and people walking by..

An indoor open-water dock where people can learn and try kayaking and paddle-boarding in a safe and welcoming space.

Under the lighthouse seating area

A wide look at the space, with a rust curved wall with a glass lighthouse structure above. There is seating and tables underneath.

A seating zone for people to relax, sitting under the lighthouse viewing port.

Sauna

An intimate space of a sauna, with wooden wavy bench with a window looking out onto the water. Three people sitting enjoying the space.

An intimate sauna space that looks onto the Tay.

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