In response to rising construction costs, Woodhouse Spas has implemented innovative strategies to reduce build-out expenses for franchise owners while preserving its luxury brand identity. While taking a comprehensive look at total project costs during the site selection and design process has been an important contributor to reducing costs, Woodhouse has also rolled out a three-tier design system and revamped prototype set of construction drawings, allowing franchise owners to choose a build-out design that best fits both their own budget and the unique tastes of their market.

“After collaboration with Woodhouse’s franchise owner subcommittee for design and construction, along with evaluating each room within the space, we decided to provide a 3-tier design catalog: the Signature Moment, the Lux and the Grand Luxe,” said Ashley Chatley, vice president of design and construction at Woodhouse. “The differences between these levels are so subtle that they effectively change nothing for the guest experience. Anyone can walk in and feel and see that luxury atmosphere, but the franchise owners are able to create it without the costs typically associated with this type of luxury development.”

A recent test of the new base-level “Signature Moment” prototype achieved remarkable results.

“We were able to come in roughly $450,000 lower than we’ve ever been,” Chatley said. “Those savings are a direct result of small tweaks. The luxury brand experience was not compromised or reduced with these tweaks.”

The cost optimization strategy encompasses multiple aspects of spa construction and design. Working closely with vendors to source alternative materials has allowed Woodhouse to maintain aesthetic standards while reducing expenses and timelines.

“We looked at, touched and tested everything to make sure that whatever we were choosing would be a true cost optimization option,” Chatley said. “We made sure the new finishes we were implementing into the design were of the same look, functionality and durability, just at a better cost.”

Practical considerations boost savings even further. For example, Woodhouse strategically places plumbing only in esthetician rooms rather than throughout the facility. The design team prioritizes efficient layout planning to both minimize construction costs and optimize operational flow within the spa.

"We're doing more robust, holistic reviews of projects from start to finish,” Chatley said. “From the time a franchise owner starts negotiating with a landlord, we’re in front of them with the real estate team to make sure our franchise owners are getting the best deal possible.”

This comprehensive strategy allows Woodhouse to maintain its high-end atmosphere while providing franchise owners with more affordable build-out options that can be tailored to specific market conditions, whether in upscale urban locations or smaller communities.

"This refreshed approach not only allows franchise owners to identify cost-saving opportunities, but it provides them some optionality within their spa,” Chatley said. “Even within a certain budget, franchise owners have a bit more runway for optionality so they can truly feel that they’re building their spa with a support system that guides them through a process.”

To find out more information on costs to buy this franchise, please visit https://1851franchise.com/woodhouse-spas.