Idea

Using a sauna, in Finnish tradition, is associated with strengthening social bonds. Thinking about the health properties resulting from sauna bathing, a small architectural object was designed, integrated with greenery and the necessary infrastructure, which through multiplication creates a public utility space.
The sauna, along with its complementary terrace, seating and flower bed, is a free-standing structure, designed for six people. It is set on point foundations and is heated by an electric heater, compressed with a photovoltaic installation on the roof.

Geometry

Its basic geometry is drawn on a square plan. The introduced diagonal defines the interior and exterior of the sauna, from the wall and ceiling linings, through the terrace and elevation boards, and the geometry of the roof. The diagonal arrangement of seats, of the monolithic character, appeals to the decrease of the cubature of the room, increasing the energy efficiency of the heating and ensuring optimal thermal conditions for all users. In the entrance arcade there is a place for storage of towels, bathrobes, aromatherapy oils and personal items.

Materials

The leading surfaces of the saunas are made of worthy materials: ash wood, titanium-zinc and copper sheet metal, sheep wool. The construction structure is made of pine wood, of increased strength, class C24. The wall coverings are made of thermally modified ash boards. The method of extending their thermal lifespan involves hardening the wood at temperature of 190-215°C, using steam. By removing moisture from the material and crystallizing the sugars contained in it, the biodegradation process is stopped. Thanks to this, the material is stable, estimated at 25 years without maintenance.

Technical solutions reducing energy consumption

Wooden window frames with a small glazing area are set back from the façade. The resulting recess and its treatment limit direct access of sunlight to the sauna. Three-layer walls, floor, roof and doors insulate the interior, reducing heat loss.

Technical solutions reducing water consumption

Under the terrace, permeable mineral surfaces were designed, and a retention tank was placed, storing rainwater, used to water plants during droughts. On one of the elevations, a rain shower was placed, necessary for cooling the body.

Circular economy

The building's facade is made of standing seam panels made of titanium-zinc or copper sheet metal, which can be recycled multiple times without losing their qualities and come from previously processed materials. In addition, the insulation in the sauna was designed from sheep wool, which has the ability to absorb moisture from the air and release it without affecting its thermal properties. The material can be reused to produce other fibers or be biodegradable.

Biodiversity

The biologically active surface around the building increases the species diversity of the ecosystem and causes water retention in the ground. Small reptiles, amphibians and hedgehogs will find their refuge under the terrace planking and sauna, between the joists and point foundations. One of the species proposed in the flower bed is a small shrub - purple willow, in the 'Nana' variety (Salix purpurea 'Nana'). The plant is characterized by a spherical and compact crown shape. It is not demanding in cultivation, it does well even in sandy and gravel substrate. Due to its strong growth, regular cutting is recommended. The blooming willow is a source of food for insects and a honey-producing and entomophilous species, which attracts bumblebees, wild bees and hymenopteras.

Health and comfort of users

Sauna has a regenerating effect on the body and mind. It has a beneficial effect on the production of white blood cells and heat shock proteins, which provide protection to cells when the body temperature increases and take part in the body's immune reactions. In addition, birchen and willowy twigs, obtained from the flowerbed integrated into the terrace, are used to stimulate circulation. During the massage, the essential oils contained in the shoots penetrate deep into the body, which affects the firmness and blood supply of the skin.

Summary

The popularization of sauna baths is part of taking care of personal well-being and that of our loved ones. Meetings with friends and family in the sauna contribute to building satisfying relationships between people. By duplicating and connecting terraces and flower beds, garden squares with seats are created, which facilitate the integration of users in the public space of recreation.