About DFL
Creating spa & wellness solutions.
Design for Leisure (DFL) specializes in the design of award-winning hydrothermal spa and wellness environments. Headquartered in London (UK) and Austin, TX (USA) the company has been creating high-end, turnkey wet spa areas for both luxury homes and professional wellness projects for over three decades. Clients include well-known hospitality and spa brands, such as Accor, Disney, Canyon Ranch, Caesars Palace, Four Seasons and Six Senses, as well as well-known architect groups, including Foster and Partners, Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners, Bjark Ingels Group, Michael Graves and Thomas Heatherwick.
The DFL Difference
1991
Design for Leisure (DFL) founded in London by Don Genders. DFL’s first large-scale project, Holmes Place Health Club, Kensington opened in 1993, followed by Virgin Active Health Clubs and The London Mandarin Oriental.
500,000+
Square footage of hydrothermal areas that Design for Leisure has designed over the 30 years the company has been operating in the UK and the USA.
FOUR
Continents (and dozens of countries!) where Design for Leisure has designed and/or built unforgettable—yet culturally relevant—hydrothermal journeys.
2003
After more than a decade of creating spa areas for hotels in Europe, Asia and the Middle East, DFL was tapped by luxury wellness leader Canyon Ranch to build its Miami spa, followed by Aquavana at The Venetian (Las Vegas).
COUNTLESS
Hydrothermal cabins and experiences: Finnish Sauna, Infrared, Steam Room, Hamam, Relaxation, Hydrotherapy Pools, Snow Rooms, Experience Showers, Plunge Pools and more.
CULTURE
People around the world have harnessed the cleansing and healing powers of water and heat for thousands of years, including the unique health benefits that hot/cold contrast therapy offers.
AWARDS
DFL has designed and created countless award-winning hydrothermal projects, including Faena Saxony Hotel and Spa, Four Seasons, Nizuc Hotel and Spa, Canyon Ranch, and many more.
5 Stars
DFL is committed to delivering 5-star, European-crafted wellness journeys that seamlessly merge the health benefits of ancient bathing practices with modern design, materials and technology.
EXPERIENCE
DFL’s expertise in the latest design trends and the best materials and equipment to use in areas that are exposed to extreme temperatures and water makes us the trusted partner for many of the world’s leading wellness and luxury destination brands.
Our Leadership Team
Don Genders
Founder & CEO
Don has spent more than three decades creating award-winning spa and wellness environments around the world. Known for his deep knowledge of hydrothermal bathing and commitment to thoughtful, authentic design, he leads DFL’s global vision and innovation. Under his leadership, DFL has worked with leading hospitality and wellness brands including Accor, Aman, Canyon Ranch, Faena, Fairmont, Four Seasons and Six Senses. Don is also Chair of the Global Wellness Institute’s Hydrothermal Initiative and a frequent speaker on spa design, construction and bathing culture.
Matthew Williamson
Chief Operating Officer
Matt oversees DFL’s operations, business development and project delivery across North America and the Caribbean. Since joining the company in 2006, he has helped guide its U.S. growth and the successful delivery of complex luxury wellness projects. His focus spans luxury hospitality, multi-family developments, high-end residential projects and emerging wellness categories, including bathhouses and sports wellness facilities. His focus on strong client relationships, operational excellence and practical execution helps turn ambitious spa concepts into enduring guest experiences.
Rony Genders
Director
Rony leads DFL’s UK design studio, creating award-winning hydrothermal environments that bring ancient bathing traditions into a contemporary setting. Having progressed from spa designer to Director, he combines creative vision with a strong understanding of the guest journey. Some notable projects include Surrenne spa at The Emory, London; the spa at Palm Heights in Grand Cayman and the Event Sauna at Resorts World Las Vegas, the first of its kind in the USA.
