Overlooking the tranquil waters of Quayside Isle on one side and the famed greenery of Sentosa Island’s natural landscape on the other, to enter VIVA is to find yourself within a serene, light-filled space. From the fully equipped Pilates Reformer studio above to the cosy beauty salon below, there’s a distinct feeling of calm here.
As it turns out, this comfortable atmosphere is exactly what VIVA’s founder Vivian Twiss envisioned while creating the wellbeing hideaway. “Sentosa Cove is a truly exquisite location,” she smiles. “The resort-like, coastal environment perfectly embodies the essence of relaxation and rejuvenation that we aim to provide.”
With a passion borne from her own personal journey in Pilates, Twiss knows better than most that the physical and mental benefits of the practice can be transformative. Paired with the confidence boost that often accompanies an indulgent beauty treatment, the vision for VIVA was brought to life.
“We create a seamless transition from honing the body to pampering the self, all while fostering community and connection,” Twiss elucidates. “Pairing fitness classes with beauty treatments was a natural progression for our vision of holistic wellness.”
In a space designed to offer an all-encompassing self-care experience, visitors may tend to their physical self with a private or group-set Pilates class upstairs, with Reformer machines overlooking lush settings. Meanwhile, beauty treatments on offer are extensive. From brow and lash enhancements to maderotherapy, rejuvenating hair treatments and nail services, various chambers allow guests to wind down with the ultimate pampering session.
In conversation, Twiss opens up about the driving force behind VIVA, how community is key to its growth, and what guests can expect from a day spent at the venue.
VIVA is unique in that it unites both Pilates and beauty treatments within a single space. Why did you decide to pair these contrasting experiences?
There was often a gap between physical wellness and beauty treatments, leaving people to juggle numerous appointments in different locations. I wanted to create a space where one could easily bridge these two worlds, nurturing the body and mind in a single sanctuary. This desire for holistic wellbeing became the driving force behind VIVA, where self-care is not just a task but a fulfilling lifestyle.
What makes you so passionate about sharing the benefits of Pilates?
My passion for Pilates comes from its transformative powers, both physically and mentally. I’ve personally experienced the incredible benefits of improved strength, flexibility and posture that it offers. What excites me most is sharing those advantages with my clients and watching them grow stronger and more aligned with each session. Pilates fosters a deeper understanding of one’s body and encourages mindfulness, which is essential for overall wellbeing. Helping others discover this connection is incredibly fulfilling for me.
And when it comes to beauty, what are your favourite treatments to indulge in at VIVA’s salon?
I thoroughly enjoy our rejuvenating hair treatments, which deeply nourish and energise my scalp and hair. It’s incredible how a well-crafted treatment can dramatically enhance your hair’s radiance and leave you feeling fresh. I also love getting my brows shaped—there’s something restorative about a good brow treatment that frames the face. And, of course, a relaxing manicure is a must. It’s such a lovely way to indulge a little, and looking down at well-groomed nails always lifts my spirits!
We were struck by the kindness and knowledge of your team at VIVA. What do you look for when building your Pilates and beauty teams?
Our Pilates instructors and beauty practitioners must share our commitment to holistic care and have a genuine desire to enhance our clients’ experiences. I value team members who are empathetic, communicative and team-oriented, as fostering a collaborative environment ultimately leads to better service and a more enriching experience for our guests.
Community is at the heart of VIVA. How do you plan to further this with the Sentosa Cove location?
Building community is integral to our philosophy at VIVA. We host quarterly events that foster collaboration with fashion, health and wellness brands. These gatherings successfully introduce our clients to new perspectives and create a space for connection and engagement. We have proudly grown a vibrant community where individuals share their journeys, learn from one another and celebrate their personal wellness milestones together.
What do you hope guests take away from a day at VIVA?
I hope that each guest leaves feeling revitalised and empowered, having experienced a blend of fitness and beauty. I want them to feel a renewed sense of balance and confidence that comes from investing in themselves—both through physical movement and self-care. Ultimately, I hope they take away a greater appreciation for the connection between body, mind and spirit, inspired to continue their self-care journey.
Tried and tested
With so much on offer, note Vogue Singapore’s hand-picked selection of experiences to try:
Face maderotherapy Emerge from a rejuvenating facial session with a sharpened jawline and lifted cheekbones, courtesy of sculpting wood instruments.
Hair spa VIVA’s signature hair spa treatment utilises the highest grade of protein-boosted products to detox the scalp and nourish the hair’s lengths. Protected tresses are left visibly glossy and softened to the touch.
Eyelash extensions Allow the professional beauty team to enhance your gaze with meticulously applied, gorgeously lengthened lashes.
Sports Therapy The newly launched Sports Therapies provide personally tailored treatments for athletic performance and recovery, addressing needs from injury prevention to rehabilitation and general wellness support.
Visit VIVA at 31 Ocean Way, #01-22, Quayside Isle, Sentosa Cove. Book your appointment at +65 9186 0716 (pilates) or +65 9785 7753 (salon). Alternatively, visit thevivagroup.com or email [email protected]
