The Tilla Spa designed by DOS Architects is an oasis of natural calm in the heart of bustling Addis Abba airport in Ethiopia. 

This cocoon-like retreat, made entirely of locally-sourced, sustainable Ethiopian materials, is the home of local cosmetics brand, spa and fitness studio Tilla. Taken from the Amharic word meaning ‘shelter from the scorching sun’ this was also the inspiration for the spa, replacing the scorching sun with the hustle and bustle of one of Africa’s fastest-growing airports. 

Encased in a shell made from locally sourced timber and using natural, Ethiopian materials wherever possible, the Tilla Airport Spa sets this small space apart, not only from the busy airport, but from the glut of shopping and leisure opportunities available around the world.  

High-quality, local products are framed in natural simplicity with demur lighting to attract customers in the gentlest way possible. While airport shops tend to shout for attention, the Tilla Airport Spa successfully draws people in with simplicity and grace.