In 2023, Madeiguincho architects unveiled the Sauna Garden Studio, a wooden sanctuary nestled within the lush landscapes of Portugal. Led by lead architects Gonçalo Marrote, Anna Cavenago, João Brás Filipe, and Tamara Lowande, this project epitomizes simplicity, functionality, and harmony with nature.

Contextual Design

Situated within a garden and emerging gracefully from the slope, the Sauna Garden Studio offers a panoramic view of the surroundings. The architects adopted a simple and logical approach, emphasizing the natural beauty of the site while providing a new living platform for relaxation and contemplation.

Layout and Symbolism

The studio’s layout comprises two rooms divided by a central axis, facilitating a seamless transition between the sauna and bathing spaces. The symmetrical facade, adorned with two windows resembling eyes, invites occupants to gaze upon the landscape, fostering a sense of connection with nature.

Dual Functionality

Ascending to the hanging platform, visitors encounter dual entry points leading to the sauna room and the bathing room. The sauna room offers a cozy space with breathtaking views, while the bathing room features a unique metal bathtub sliding onto an outdoor balcony, allowing occupants to indulge in an invigorating ice-cold bath amidst nature.

Materiality and Atmosphere

Cryptomeria japonica wood from the Azores dominates the project, infusing the sauna with an aromatic ambiance that evolves with the fluctuating temperatures. A corridor, marked by a hanging cold-water bucket, serves as a symbolic link between the sauna and bathing spaces, enhancing the studio’s symmetry.

Integration and Connectivity

The corridor not only facilitates movement between spaces but also leads to the main house and rooftop lounge. The rooftop, offering expansive views of the mountains and sea, provides an idyllic setting for relaxation and introspection, completing the holistic experience of the Sauna Garden Studio.

In conclusion, the Sauna Garden Studio harmonizes architectural design with natural landscapes, offering occupants a serene retreat to rejuvenate the body and soul amidst the beauty of Portugal.