Forest sauna shed
2015
The forest cottage is hidden in the woods not far from the village. It was created as a place where one can escape from everyday worries in every season.
The structure of the forest cottage offers more than just a sauna. The sauna includes a protected relaxation area and a fold-out terrace with a frame. The space above the sauna, accessible by a ladder, is particularly favored by children.
The size of the shed can be adjusted to maximize its versatility. The fold-out terrace can be used as the fourth wall of the forest cottage, completely enclosing the structure. Alternatively, you can expand the relaxation area and connect it with a canopy to the wooden frame. How about a projection screen on a wooden frame or even a swing that can transport you back to your childhood for a moment?
The main design principle of the sauna is mimicry. Just as animals in nature try to blend in with their surroundings with their colors and appearance to hide from predators, the forest sauna aims to blend in and be an inconspicuous inhabitant of the forest. It uses a cladding of tree branches for camouflage.
The cladding of tree branches is used for the semi-transparent separation of the relaxation area in front of the sauna. There is plenty of light passing through the branches while the space remains protected and visually separated from the surrounding forest. This cladding of tree branches provides a new purpose for trees that had to be felled for necessary forest rehabilitation.
For the exterior cladding of the sauna, dark boards are used. We utilized reclaimed old boards from a nearby mill. In contrast, the interior of the sauna is lined with light sauna panels, creating a clean and cozy atmosphere that contrasts with the dark, weathered exterior.
Affordable wooden ammunition crates serve as versatile seating – the placement of the crates can create various seating arrangements or even serve as a table for enjoying tea.
The shed is designed to serve various purposes throughout the year, not just as a sauna or a playhouse for children but also as a place to socialize with friends, a summer cinema, a spot for observing wildlife in the forest, or simply a place to relax over tea.