Wynn Magazine - Las Vegas
Issue link: http://www.ifoldsflip.com/i/225036
PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE SHUTTING OUT THE WORLD Step off Encore's elevators onto the resort's Spa level, and instantly you are transported into a world far removed from the cacophony of the Las Vegas Strip, one that is equal parts posh and exotic, tranquil and pampering. Wooden admits that he wishes his nonstop schedule and the demands of running award-winning resorts allowed more opportunities to indulge in the upscale relaxation one encounters in The Spas of Wynn and Encore. The latter, he says, is particularly suited to an escapist frame of mind: Designed by Las Vegas–based Todd Avery-Lenahan, The Spa at Encore seamlessly blends a variety of influences—from Morocco to a Buddhist temple to 18th-century France— to create a space that is as luxurious as it is serene, a scene too tempting for the stresses that reside within one's smartphone. "I've been to a lot of spas where I don't necessarily feel I'm in that moment of relaxation; perhaps they feel a bit too sterile, or they feel just a little too busy," he says. "To me everything at the Encore Spa is done at a whole different level and experience, and that starts with its design. Todd Avery-Lenahan has created a space that truly does feel like the height of indulgence; and when you talk about a sense of arrival, I'm not sure we have a better one. From the moment you step off the elevator, you immediately gain a sense of serenity, of, 'Wow, I am on vacation, I am not at work, I am not in a business meeting.' The Spa almost challenges you to shut off your brain and your cell phone for a couple of hours and just indulge in and embrace that moment of relaxation. How often do we give ourselves permission to do that?" much of it heretofore unknown to American audiences, from the waters around Italy. Steve Wynn at first wasn't interested, believing the idea to be too costly and esoteric; Bartolotta's passion ultimately convinced Wynn, however, and his Ristorante di Mare ultimately has proven popular with guests and critics alike (in 2009 Bartolotta captured the James Beard Award for Best Chef in the Southwest; the venue itself recently underwent a redesign, the latest in Wynn's never-ending desire that his spaces enjoy constant design evolution, and is set to be unveiled on December 20). "It's been such a great success for us, and an incredible lesson for everyone in both passion and quality," Wooden says, pointing to details such as the GPS tracking system applied to the langoustines and other seafood flown in just hours after the catch. "It's just one of the details that serves as a real "The Spa almost challenges you to shut off your brain and your cell phone and just indulge in and embrace that moment of relaxation. How often do you get to do that?" The Spa at Encore Lobby. Steve Wynn likes to surround himself with people who are as passionate as they are talented, Wooden says, noting that it's a dynamic that works well for both the man and his resorts. "Steve appreciates passionate people who are passionate about what they do, especially when they can frame an idea for him and help him understand that the passion isn't just a dream—it can be a reality and an opportunity. In Paul Bartolotta's case, that passion led to a very successful restaurant." Wooden mentions Bartolotta and his eponymous fine-dining space because he is indeed a well-known example of how passion won out over practicality. Back in the months before Wynn's 2005 opening, Bartolotta had pitched his idea of a restaurant that showcased seafood, 32 PHOTOGRAPHY BY RUSSELL MACMASTERS WHAT'S YOUR PASSION? WYNN 028-034_Wynn_FOB_Maurice_Winter13.indd 32 12/6/13 2:44 PM