Sauna in Teshikaga: A Unique Architectural Marvel
Nestled in Teshikaga, Hokkaido, stands a distinctive tower-shaped sauna that blends advanced technology with traditional sauna culture. This architectural gem features free-form curved designs on both its interior and exterior, meticulously crafted from solid Cypress wood. These elegant curves were shaped using a state-of-the-art 5-axis CNC machine at VUILD's own fabrication facility, showcasing a harmonious blend of natural materials and modern technology.
The interior of the sauna is ingeniously designed to allow users to discover their ideal temperature. By ascending in a spiral motion, visitors experience a gradient of warmth, with temperatures increasing on higher floors. This design leverages the principle that heat rises, ensuring a unique thermal journey. The journey culminates at the top, where a spacious area awaits, large enough for an adult to recline comfortably. Here, the use of vertical space is maximized, with seating blocks aligned along the stairway, serving both as structural elements and resting spots.
Asymmetry and Individuality in Design
The sauna's overall structure breaks conventional norms with its asymmetrical shape, where each wooden block boasts a unique design. This labor-intensive construction method, reminiscent of ancient architectural practices, is made possible through VUILD's innovative use of digital technology. After extensive research into balance and form, the precise dimensions and assembly methods for the components were determined.
The cypress blocks are stacked in a method akin to a child’s building toy, with intricate three-dimensional grooves functioning as interlocking joints. This intricate system prevents any vertical shift of the blocks, while horizontal and vertical screws provide additional stability.
Crafting the Ideal Thermal Environment
In sauna design, achieving high temperatures is crucial. This sauna's design strikes a delicate balance between maintaining sufficient interior space and minimizing the load on the heating stove. Users can enjoy a sense of privacy while still being in a communal space. The thermal environment is finely controlled, with options to adjust air flow and temperature by manipulating the window at the top. Complementing this environment is a collaboration with a lighting designer, who introduced subtle, indirect lighting above the central staircase column. This soft illumination creates a serene, almost mystical atmosphere, enhancing the feeling of solitude amidst company.
In conclusion, the Teshikaga sauna is not just a place for relaxation but a testament to the fusion of traditional sauna principles with avant-garde design and technology. It stands as a unique architectural achievement, providing an unparalleled experience to its visitors.
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