Innovative Water Features and SPA Design.
By Tony Cheung, Founder of P & A Engineering
As the founder of P & A Engineering, I have had the privilege of witnessing and contributing to the transformation of the water feature and SPA facility design industry over the past five decades. What began as a modest endeavor to bring advanced pool and water technology to Hong Kong has since evolved into a pioneering force in Asia and beyond. Today, we stand as industry leaders, shaping the future of luxury water features and SPA facilities that blend cutting-edge technology with cultural and emotional resonance.
When I first started my company, we realized that the understanding of pool design and construction in Hong Kong and Southeast Asia was still in its early stages. With limited local expertise, we sought to introduce the best of European and American technologies to the region. Our timing was fortuitous, coinciding with the rapid expansion of Hong Kong’s real estate industry, which allowed us to promote the concept of high-end pools and water features. This initiative laid the foundation for our entry into a broader market across Asia.
Our expansion was not limited to pools; we began delving into SPA and water feature designs. By collaborating with European experts, particularly from Germany and Austria, we were able to integrate the latest design philosophies and technologies into the Asian market. Platforms such as SpaChina helped us elevate the SPA industry in the region and consolidate our position as a thought leader in this space.
We believe that successful designs stem from a deep understanding of the cultural, climatic, and economic context of each project. For instance, in the Middle East, where the climate is hot and dry, we focus on cooling functions and shading elements in our designs. Meanwhile, in mainland China, we incorporate traditional cultural elements to create water features that resonate emotionally with the local community, ensuring that our designs are not only functional but also culturally meaningful.
We take great pride in our “tailored to local conditions” approach. This method involves thorough on-site surveys to understand water resources, climate, and cultural preferences, allowing us to craft solutions that are not just technically sound but also harmonious with the surrounding environment. Each project is a unique challenge that demands a balance between innovation and tradition, form and function.
Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of visiting some of the world’s most renowned water features, from the fountains of Tivoli Gardens in Italy. These experiences have profoundly influenced our work at P & A, helping us push the boundaries of design and execution.
Take, for example, the Dubai Burj Khalifa Lake Fountain, where we integrated hundreds of meters of water pipes and equipment for a fountain that would become one of the most iconic in the world. Similarly, our work on the Singapore Fountain of Wealth blended cultural symbols of prosperity with innovative water displays, attracting global attention. These landmark projects are testament to our technical prowess and ability to execute designs that exceed client expectations.
In every project, we aim to exceed the client’s vision. A memorable experience for us occurred when a client brought us photos of stunning water features from around the world and asked, “Can you do better than this?” The challenge spurred us to think creatively and, in some cases, travel to the sources of inspiration to ensure that the final design exceeded expectations. This process of “collective creation” is what makes each project unique and fulfilling.
The core of any successful SPA facility is its ability to offer a holistic experience that caters to the body, mind, and spirit. At P & A, we focus on every aspect of customer experience, from the layout of the space to the temperature, lighting, sound, and tactile qualities. Every detail must work in harmony to create an environment of relaxation and rejuvenation.
We also recognize that different customers have different needs. That’s why we design spaces that accommodate a variety of preferences, from wet areas and dry steam rooms to therapy pools and relaxation zones. The goal is to ensure that each visitor finds something that suits their needs, enhancing the overall appeal of the facility.
Moreover, technological advancements have played a significant role in revolutionizing the SPA experience. We strive to design hardware that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also efficient and low-maintenance. By integrating the latest technology into our designs, we ensure that our water facilities operate smoothly and sustainably, providing long-term value for clients.
We understand that every hotel brand has its own identity and philosophy. Our design process starts with in-depth research into the brand’s history, values, and target audience. For example, if a hotel brand wishes to emphasize traditional culture, we incorporate local elements into the design of water features. Conversely, for brands that favor modernity, we create sleek, minimalist designs that showcase the latest technology.
The seamless integration of water features into the hotel’s overall design is crucial to ensuring that they complement the brand’s narrative and create a cohesive guest experience. Whether it’s the luxurious water features of a Shangri-La or the serene ambiance of the Sangha Retreat in Suzhou, our work enhances the hotel’s unique identity and creates memorable experiences for guests.
Innovation is at the heart of everything we do. We are constantly exploring new technologies to address industry challenges and enhance the functionality of our designs. For instance, we recently faced a challenge with the fire safety regulations banning the use of traditional wood in sauna design. Our team responded swiftly by developing a new material that met the safety standards while preserving the aesthetic qualities of wood. This kind of adaptability and innovation is key to staying ahead in a rapidly evolving industry.
We also emphasize sustainability in all our designs. By integrating energy-saving technologies and using renewable resources, we ensure that our projects are not only environmentally friendly but also economically viable in the long term. This focus on sustainability is crucial as the industry continues to move toward more eco-conscious solutions.
The future of wellness hotels and resorts will be shaped by two major trends: personalization and sustainability. We anticipate that intelligent systems will play a significant role in providing customized guest experiences, from adjusting room environments based on health data to offering personalized SPA treatments.
At the same time, we must continue to prioritize environmental responsibility. Closed-loop water systems, energy-efficient equipment, and renewable energy sources will become increasingly important in the design of sustainable wellness facilities. However, we must always remember that technology must serve the guest experience, and not the other way around. Our designs will continue to focus on blending technological innovation with cultural resonance, ensuring that every project offers a unique, memorable experience.
As I reflect on the past 50 years of P & A Engineering, I am proud of the legacy we have created and the impact we’ve made on the water feature and SPA industry. Our journey has been one of constant innovation, collaboration, and dedication to excellence. Looking ahead, I am excited for the future and the opportunities to continue pushing the boundaries of design, technology, and customer experience in wellness and luxury resorts.
In the end, it is the art of design and the beauty of water that truly define our work – a legacy that will endure for generations to come.
Tony Cheung
A Hong Kong Chinese, Mr. Cheung has been a pioneer in developing high-quality health club facilities in China for more than 40 years. He has been endeavoring to bring to China the latest technologies and products from Europe and America. Under his leadership, PA Group and its subsidiary PA Wellness now form the most recognized technical spa consulting company for facilities in luxury hotels, resorts and other leading properties. e.g., Shangri-la hotels, Ritz-Carlton hotels, Four Seasons hotels, Mandarin Oriental hotels, and Peninsula hotels.
