native narrative designs mobile sauna finished with scandinavian wood in denmark

danish architecture firm native narrative designed a fully mobile sauna, on behalf of a collective of winter bathing enthusiasts in the most southern tip of denmark. the brief given to native narrative requested a high quality sauna that provided an optimal experience that had ‘comfort, mobility and stylish functionality, including comfortable seating in different levels for 8-10 people, a generous panorama window through which the surrounding landscape can be enjoyed anywhere without planning permission.’ the result is a compact, yet sophisticated space that brings nature into the steamy room. 

the client had initially considered a barrel sauna but wanted native narrative to innovate on its existing design. by changing several characteristics of the barrel sauna such as the oven that obstructs the view, lack of level seating, lack of changing room, and low head height, the designers created a completely new experience for the bathers.

the scandinavian sauna is built with high quality timber, and boasts a fire resistant larch exterior cladding that protects it from the extreme weather. because of its mobile nature, the sauna can be enjoyed in places where building permission would not be granted, and can be set up amidst landscapes that a regular sauna couldn’t be located at.

the sauna’s design incorporates both artificial and natural lighting for different atmospheres and moods. when the sun goes down, users can easily adjust the atmospheric LED lights via a touch panel. during the day, a generous panorama window gives sauna visitors a chance to enjoy the surrounding landscape.

the geometric exterior of the sauna is defined by the sloping roof, that gives generous headroom above the top seat. this gives the sauna it’s characteristic form and minimal aesthetic. the interiors are finished with scandinavian spruce, bringing light and softness into the spaces. the matching minimal crafted furniture is made of aspen timber which feels colder and more comfortable against the skin compared to other types of wood. an internal glass door allows for natural light into the changing room and visually extends the space of the sauna.

the sauna sits integrated on a trailer and can be transported by a larger car. native narrative added a changing room which also acts as a temperature buffer zone, helping to keep the heat inside. the scandinavian sauna can be enjoyed in the forest, by the sea or wherever desired without planning permission.

project info:

design: native narrative