The Drying Shed Sauna

Project Info

Tucked into a woodland clearing in the High Weald Area of Natural Beauty, the Drying Shed Sauna is a charming example of sensitively integrated and ecologically considerate construction.

Providing a meditative experience for guests staying in nearby eco-cabins, the sauna has been hand-built using readily available natural resources. Its lightweight timber frame structure is externally clad in UK-grown, red-stained larch shingles and internally lined with alder to match the surrounding alder trees. The wood for fuel is sourced from the neighbouring woodland, while the bench seating was created from a silver birch tree trunk that had fallen close to the site. The sauna perches on salvaged stone and uses root-sensitive screw piles to minimise disruption to wildlife.

The design playfully references historic, local agricultural drying sheds, drawing a light-hearted parallel between the two uses. This can be seen in its form and finish, with the distinct arrangement of the larch shingles and beautiful timber corner details offering a nod to the visible façade mechanisms of traditional drying sheds, while doubling as a storage solution for robes.

Built during a collaborative summer workshop between the design practice and client, this project provided an opportunity to push the boundaries of natural, sustainable design.

Other Services:

Woodburner Installer: Bryan Blanch Wood Burner & Chimney Sweep