In Coledale, this client wanted the best of both: a traditional sauna and an infrared sauna, side by side. Both are lined inside in natural Aspen, and the outside is clad in warm Ayous shadowgap with super grey glass doors.
The traditional sauna has a two-tier L-shaped bench, with the heater set into the upper bench so it sits low and out of the way. A Wi-Fi controller lets the owners heat it up from their phone before they head down.
The client wanted to keep the existing glass sunroof, and also add a window so they could watch the surf while they sauna. We designed both into the room, so it's full of natural light and still feels like a proper traditional sauna.
Next door, the infrared sauna has a long straight bench big enough for four people, or for one person to lie down. Warm LED lighting runs along the ceiling and under the bench.
The biggest challenge was the sunroof. We upgraded it to double glazing to help keep the heat in, then clad the opening in Aspen and ran the boards straight into the window reveal, so the lining looks seamless from every angle.
It's a calm, light-filled space that makes the most of the coast, and one we're really proud of.
