Today I was at the third and newest location of Knead. To date, I have now been to all three studio so am able to see how they have grown and transitioned over the years, as the brand becomes a well known name in body care.
The Kitsilano branch felt like everything you imagine a spa to be. Similar to all other locations, the emphasis is on a quiet space to disconnect, so you are asked to whisper-talk, if at all.
Although the original location in Mount Pleasant is a shoebox compare to this one, as a much smaller and more intimate footprint. There is just enough space for two to sit shoulder to shoulder in the reception area, and it leads right into the reflexology station, offering not much of a divide between those having their service and others waiting for their turn. Then each individual room is just enough space to fit the massage table and have one smaller tech move around it. Each of the three rooms divided by simple curtains. Despite the request for all guests to help maintain a quiet space, you could still hear murmurs, chattering, and the sounds of relaxing that comes with a soothing massage.
But here at Kitsilano, the overall large space is expansive enough to allow for negative space and breaths of fresh air. With nooks and hidden quarters your treatment feels exclusive to you. I liked how you are asked to remove your shoes at the door, and to dawn on shared slippers instead. Not only did this help to quickly foster the mood to relax, but aided in maintaining a clean and most sanitary space.
As I mentioned above, the open room was pocketed for more intimate services, there was a large waiting area, and the massage rooms were fully walled off. There was even a tea station separate from the wall of dried teas to choose from. Back lit with led lights and quite central to the open room, I would have liked to see more stylish glass jars in display. Given the refined and gender neutral decor, this was a bit of an eye sore in plastic with snap lids. Glass jars with corked tops to match the causal, modern bohemian feel, alongside the wicker baskets, textured throws, and green wide leaf plants felt most in line.
As for the service itself, it truly depends on the person, but with the amount of times all Knead technicians check-in and ask for your preferences, I have never had a bad experience. In fact, this one was so relaxing that I fell asleep on my stomach for the first time. (I am a back sleeper and usually have my massages deep tissue where I want to feel the soreness.)
Today I went for a full body massage and asked the masseuse to focus on my back and shoulders as usual, focussing on their relaxation. I also brought up problems with my right knee and she focussed on stretching it out from hip and thigh, as well as pressure points on the knee itself, adding much relief.
I loved how confident my massage felt. The masseuse moved without hesitation as she moulded my limbs as needed. I felt like a ragdoll as she tucked corners around my arms and legs, and my hands were placed out of the way.
It feels like after three locations they really found their stride with this one and I hope they go back and renovate the others to match this most recent concept. I can recommend them for your every day approachable and non-pretentious health and wellness solution.
Knead Foot & Body Massage Studio Kitsilano
2299 Burrard St, Vancouver, BC V6J 3H9
(604) 388-5092
theknead.ca
