At Ten Thousand Waves, a Japanese-inspired bathhouse nestled in the mountains above Santa Fe, technology is intentionally quiet. The architecture, materials, and rituals are designed to slow guests down and create a sense of removal from the outside world. That sense of disconnection, however—combined with limited cellular coverage on site—elevates the importance of a reliable, intuitive internal communication system.

We were engaged to develop a concept design proposal for a guest experience and safety redesign initiative, focused on unifying several fragmented systems into one cohesive, easy-to-use platform. The existing intercom system was not user-friendly and therefore not effective. Treatment rooms, baths, and saunas relied on separate solutions for two-way intercom, emergency call buttons, blue-light provider alerts, and timekeeping. The core objective was to simplify the user experience for both guests and staff, while ensuring the system could scale and evolve with the property.

Our proposed solution centered on a unified backbone built around Q-SYS and Dante networked audio architecture, paired with themed entertainment-grade intercom stations. By consolidating intercom, push-to-call, blue-light notification, and synchronized clock functionality into one integrated ecosystem, we transformed a collection of disparate devices into a coherent communications strategy. Operators would manage the system through a centralized interface, with custom consoles designed specifically for the spa’s workflow and staffing patterns.

As themed experience designers, it was equally important that the technology disappear into the architecture. Ten Thousand Waves maintains an exceptionally high aesthetic standard, including an in-house wood shop capable of producing custom millwork. We developed a series of conceptual call boxes inspired by the traditional Japanese craft of Kumiko—intricate wooden latticework historically used in shoji screens and architectural detailing. While the patterns would be precision laser-cut for consistency and acoustic performance, the final enclosures would be fabricated in collaboration with the spa’s wood shop, integrating speaker grille cloth behind the lattice and concealing modern electronics within a handcrafted façade. The result: intercom and call stations that feel native to the bathhouse rather than imposed upon it.

In sauna environments, where heat and humidity introduce additional complexity, we specified waterproof audio transducers for paging or background music, along with sauna-rated push-to-call buttons integrated into the same unified system. Microphone options were also considered where appropriate. Drawing on prior spa audio experience, the design ensures safe operation in high-temperature environments without compromising longevity or guest comfort.

The proposal also addressed infrastructure efficiency. Power-over-Ethernet speakers and Dante-based signal distribution minimize invasive construction and allow service by standard low-voltage contractors. This approach supports phased implementation and future expansion, aligning with the spa’s long-term operational needs.

The conceptual budget reflected a robust, scalable platform—including system core, intercom controllers, touchscreens, programming, and optional maintenance—designed not merely to replace aging equipment, but to redefine how communication supports both serenity and safety.

Following the presentation, the client shared that this was the first time they felt a design team had fully listened to and understood their unique operational and aesthetic requirements. That response affirmed the project’s guiding principle: thoughtful technology integration begins with empathy for place, culture, and workflow.