Chi Spa

This self-described "wellness center" in downtown's Shangri-La Hotel offers Asian-style spa treatments in a sensual space. Completed in Vancouver in 2009, the Chinese luxury-brand hotel hosting Chi Spa occupies the first 15 floors of British Columbia's tallest building. Consistent with the Chinese concept of chi, the day spa designs personalized treatments around five elements: metal, water, wood, fire, and earth. The rushing wall of water that greets visitors at the threshold is just the first of many Asian-inspired design touches meant to elicit a sense of calm.