Madeiguincho’s wooden Sauna in rural pportugal
Amidst the lush greenery of rural Portugal, Madeiguincho has completed the construction of a wooden sauna that naturally integrates with its surroundings. Mirroring the site’s environment, the sauna employs a symmetrically designed facade with a simple and practical layout, accentuating the inherent beauty. An elevated platform perched on a slopping rock extends the living area, bringing in scenic panoramas. The arrangement includes two rooms divided by a central axis, efficiently defining the sauna and bathing areas, connecting to the main house, and providing access to the rooftop.
all images João Carranca
A Harmonious Blend of Nature and Relaxation
Ascending to the suspended platform reveals two entrances —one leading to the sauna room and the other to the bathing room. The sauna side offers a comfortable space with panoramic views, while the bathing room invites you to change and shower in comfort. A metal bathtub extends to an outdoor balcony, providing a refreshing experience with an ice-cold bath and picturesque views. The project primarily uses cryptomeria japonica wood from the Azores, creating an aromatic atmosphere that complements the sauna’s various temperatures. A connecting corridor featuring a hanging cold-water bucket links the sauna and bathing spaces, defining the symmetry of the facade. This corridor extends to the main house and rooftop, shaping a contemplative lounge that provides views of mountains and sea —a perfect spot for relaxation and introspection to round off the sauna experience by Madeiguincho (see more here).
users can enjoy the view while having an invigorating ice-cold bath
the project is mainly constructed by cryptomeria japonica wood from the Azores
the sauna room offers a comfortable oasis with expansive panoramic views
inviting a journey of relaxation and rejuvenation.
a connecting corridor defines the symmetry of the facade, linking the sauna and bathing spaces
close-up of the cryptomeria japonica wood from the Azores, creating a fragrant atmosphere
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project info:
name: Sauna Garden Studio
architects: Madeiguincho | @madeiguincho_atelier
location: Portugal
completion: 2023
area: 22 sqm
other participants: architects: Gonçalo Marrote, Anna Cavenago, João Brás Filipe e Tamara Lowande
carpenters: Rui Peixoto, João Marrote, Lucas Risu, Sander
photography: João Carranca
christina petridou I designboom
jan 24, 2024