Sandellsandberg Studio in Sweden has completed Big Branzino, a floating sauna designed to harmonize with the ever-changing backdrop of the Stockholm archipelago.
The wooden structure rests on a steel catamaran hull and features a distinctive arched roof that slopes downward, enveloping the central glass sauna room. Johan Strandlund, an architect at Sandsamberg Studio, explained, “Creative clients from Stockholm’s tech industry envisioned a truly extraordinary floating sauna experience—elegant and refined, yet unexpected.”
To blend seamlessly with the surrounding forests, the exterior of Big Branzino is clad in pine wood planks. The fully glazed bow and stern ends open onto two deck areas. Two smaller rooms—a shower and a bathroom—flank the main sauna space, which features two tiers of wooden benches encircling a custom stove.
A ladder leads up to the roof, where a relaxing seating area offers uninterrupted views of the surroundings. When more space is needed, the seat easily folds away. According to Sandsamberg Studio, “The exterior uses rough pine that naturally blends with the environment, while the interior and furniture are crafted from Western red cedar, prized for its durability in sauna and outdoor settings.”
The studio emphasized that “the design centers on the unique shape of the arch. At its lowest point, it creates a warm, flickering glow reminiscent of flames. As the arch rises on each side, occupants can gaze at the stars through the glass ceiling.” The cedar cabin at the front of the sauna houses a steering wheel and controls, allowing guests to navigate the archipelago at a maximum speed of 5 miles per hour.
Architect Johan Strandlund added, “It offers the freedom to travel wherever the captain decides—from short sauna sessions to adventurous long-distance journeys.” He continued, “When delivered from the shipyard to the client, it took two days, allowing us to explore its full range of experiences. Besides the sauna, the fireplace provides warmth for overnight stays.”
Founded in 1995 by Thomas Sandell and Ulf Sandberg, Sandellsandberg Studio is a Swedish architectural firm currently led by Louise Arnell, Kenny Kahre, Anders Rotstein, and Thomas Sandell.
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