National Commendation for Small Project Architecture – 2021 National Architecture Awards
Traditional Land Owners: The Pyemmairrener People of Lutruwita
On a lake, in a small North East Tasmanian town, floats a sauna. Taking cues from Derby’s contrasting history of boom and bust (then fortunately boom again) two black and white gable sheds sit quietly against the dramatic backdrop of quarry cliffs and rainforest.
The pontoon is connected to the shore by a small pedestrian bridge. One pavilion is a changeroom, the second is the sauna. The concept was influenced by fixed parameters of the pontoon and glazing size, both items of which were predetermined.
The design concept focussed on the sensory experience and progression of privacy and containment. The material choice reflects its function. The dark recessive burnt larch offers solitude and privacy for the sauna. In contrast, a light-filled changing pavilion casts subtle silhouettes of the users within against the Ampelite cladding.
The buildings float together in the landscape, offering a unique opportunity for isolation and relaxation.
Client perspective:
How does the design benefit the way you live/work/play/operate/educate/other?
“Apart from the obvious aesthetics created by the design of the floating sauna to sit peacefully in the environment and the subtle play on hot/cold and black/white, the actual layout of the sauna has a huge impact on the running of the business. The arrangement of the functional areas (bike storage, change room, shelter, sauna and cold plunge ladder) allows the experience to feel natural and seamless.“
The Australian Institute of Architects acknowledges First Nations peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the lands, waters, and skies of the continent now called Australia.
We express our gratitude to their Elders and Knowledge Holders whose wisdom, actions and knowledge have kept culture alive.
We recognise First Nations peoples as the first architects and builders. We appreciate their continuing work on Country from pre-invasion times to contemporary First Nations architects, and respect their rights to continue to care for Country.
