VUILD stacks curving prefabricated wood blocks to shape tower sauna in hokkaido

tower sauna rises like a stack of lego in hokkaido

VUILD has completed a tower-like sauna in Teshikaga, Hokkaido, shaped from curving modules resembling a stack of LEGO. Its free-form surfaces characterizing both the interior and exterior have been parametrically prefabricated from three-dimensionally processed Cypress wood blocks, which were produced using a 5-axis CNC machine.

Stepping inside, the architects have ensured an optimal thermal environment by ensuring that the heat rises to the upper floors and that users can adapt to the temperature by moving in a spiral manner. Along the curving staircase, hinoki blocks of varying heights — serving as both the finish and the structure — are integrated, creating seating to efficiently utilize the vertical space.

all images courtesy of Hayato Kurobe

vuild optimizes space amid the sauna’s small footprint

For saunas, regulating temperatures sufficiently is an absolute requirement, and so VUILD conceived the space to achieve the perfect balance of minimizing distance between users while not excessively increasing the volume and thus the load on the stove. Airflow and temperature control can further be easily adjusted by opening and closing the slit windows in the entrance and top fittings. In collaboration with a lighting designer, indirect lighting was embedded in the wall above the staircase’s central column, creating a meditative ambiance that gives the illusion of being close to others yet feeling far away.

The Tower Sauna’s overall form is asymmetrical, with each block member holding a distinct shape. VUILD has implemented an intricate construction method, reminiscent of ancient architecture, that is made possible by the Japanese practice’s pursuit of digital technology in architecture. The sizes and assembly methods of the components were determined through repeated studies of the overall shape and the balance, culminating with a composition that stacks the cypress members in a manner similar to assembling children’s toys. The three-dimensional grooves in the cypress members — fixed horizontally and vertically with screws — function as tenon and mortise to prevent them from shifting up and down.

VUILD completes Tower Sauna

assembled like a stack of curving LEGO

its free-form surfaces have been parametrically prefabricated from processed Cypress wood blocks

the Tower Sauna’s overall form is asymmetrical

the architects have ensured an optimal thermal environment by ensuring that the heat rises to the upper floors

along the curving staircase, integrated hinoki blocks create seating of varying heights

indirect lighting creates a meditative ambiance that gives the illusion of being close to others yet feeling far away

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image courtesy of VUILD

image courtesy of VUILD

image courtesy of VUILD

project info:

name: Tower Sauna
architect: VUILD | @vuild_official

location: Hokkaido, Japan

photography: Hayato Kurobe

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edited by: ravail khan | designboom