It's called House - The Social Benefits.

Sip on the teas offered at House after a good pampering session

In case you have not read about it yet, it is the latest joint to hit the up-and-coming Dempsey Road, which is now packed with a hip quotient of bars, cafes restaurants, and even a Ben and Jerry's ice-cream parlour.

Opened by the Spa Esprit group, which also runs Spa Esprit, STRIP, Browhaus and MASK, House brands itself as a social space where people can gather and socialise.

A curious hybrid of a place clustering a spa, a restaurant and bar, House, Barracks and Camp, this one-stop foodies' wonderland created quite a stir even before its launch on 17 July.

Ms Rosie Liew, brand manager, said: "We haven't been open very long , but we have been getting good response from the public with enquiries to make reservations for parties, beside having curious passers-by who come and check out the place."

Already, there have been several corporate enquiries about holding company retreats, and brides who want a one-of-a-kind hen party.

Sitting on what used to be an army hospital, House is a day spa that is set to re-define the spa experience for lovers of the good life.

With the luxury of 35,000 square feet and set up to the tune of $5 million, House has 20 treatment rooms that have been decorated by local artists, including one for foot treats with friends, and 28 treatment beds. There are also little corners where you can retreat to with friends to soak in the soothing ambience after your massage.

Indulge in a jacuzzi party with friends at the indoor jacuzzi pool

The spa is spread over two levels. House the spa occupies the entire second floor, while the first floor it taken up by Camp, a bar that serves cocktails. You can also order tea blends from the apothecary bar if you prefer non-alcoholic beverages.

Head for the alcoves for an intimate private party or the multi-function rooms that lend themselves to larger gathering, with the entire place done up in a modernist setting of cemented flooring, whitewashed walls and exposed lightbulbs.

Despite the sprawling space, it still feels inviting because the different rooms have been done up to evoke distinctly different moods.

It takes a while to explore the entire place, but you will discover the spa's very own green house, a library, yoga room and even an apothecary bar where you can learn all about herbs that heal.

Some new treatments at House include the KIVA Rituals, inspired by the native Americans, where you are covered in Hungarian mud and sweat it out in a heated sweat lodge, and the Kajogal massage which combines 20 yoga poses to give your muscles a good stretch.

Other spas in unusual locales

Spas are popping up in the most unexpected places.

Expressions International will also set up a rooftop spa and wellness boutique on the rooftop of the Chinese Swimming Club.

Occupying 5,700 square feet on the rooftop of the established sports club, Ning the Fusion Spa is believed to be the first premium spa in a sports club.

Slated to complete construction in 2009, the spa will be open to CSC members and the public as well.