Biophilic Design and Spatial Performance in Spa Environments: Development of the BIO-SPA Certification Model

This study develops the BIO-SPA Certification Model, a novel framework for evaluating the spatial organisation and biophilic design performance of spa centres within hotel and resort facilities. The research focuses on spa environments in five-star accommodation establishments in Antalya, Türkiye. The methodology integrates two assessment components: spatial design performance (SPA) and biophilic design performance (BIO). Spatial evaluations examined architectural layouts, functional zoning, circulation systems, and operational relationships, while biophilic evaluations assessed natural elements, restorative qualities, and sensory environmental conditions. A weighted multi-criteria scoring system was employed to calculate composite BIO-SPA scores and certification levels. The results revealed significant differences between spatial efficiency and biophilic quality. Some facilities demonstrated strong operational organisation but limited integration of nature-based experiences, whereas others achieved higher biophilic performance despite lower spatial efficiency. None of the analysed facilities attained the highest certification level within the proposed framework. The findings indicate that existing spa certification systems remain limited in assessing restorative spatial quality and biophilic integration. The BIO-SPA Certification Model contributes to the literature by providing a measurable and verifiable framework that integrates wellness-oriented design principles with spatial performance evaluation in spa environments.