Around the World, Lifestyle

A Floating Sauna on Seattle’s Lake Union

View all 6 Photos

Saunas are the quintessential relaxation space, but this floating station takes things one step further in a unique structure that uses water in different ways. It gracefully floats on the surface of the Lake Union, uses a wooden stove to produce steam, and provides a convenient diving platform. The wa_sauna is made by goCstudio, an architecture and design studio founded in 2012 and based in Seattle. It combines various features in one compact unit that aims to offer more than just a peaceful isolated space away from the busy city life.

Inside the floating 240 square foot sauna there’s plenty of room for up to six people. The wood burning stove heats the interior, while a motor with three 12-volt batteries powers the platform, transforming it into a vessel which can be moved across the lake when needed. A metal ladder frames one of the glass panels and leads to the diving platform at the top, extending from one side of the structure. On a lower deck, the owners and their friends can sunbathe in complete privacy away from the shore. The black and light brown wood surfaces integrate into the landscape perfectly, complementing the expanse of deep blue water and the dark forests and mountains rising in the distance. The wa_sauna uses steam, sun, and water to transform a wooden and metal structure into the ultimate leisure space where one can completely relax in the middle of nature. Photography by Kevin Scott.

More for you

The Westbrook Residence


Architecture

A thoughtfully designed home that optimizes access to nature instead of a larger foot…

A Sustainable, Multi-Functiona...


Architecture

A versatile garden pavilion that adapts to flexible uses while immersing the resident…

House with a Tilted Roof


Architecture

An exposed brick, steel and concrete house that looks to tradition to maximize space …

Architect’s Apartment


Architecture

An airy and bright apartment designed with a central, open-plan space and a balcony f…

La Cunka, Cozy Shelters with S...


Architecture

Nestled on a slope of a mountain, these two compact shelters immerse their inhabitant…

House in Lottano


Architecture

An old stone farmhouse brought back to life with careful restoration work and wood ad…

Around the world

Treehouse Villas, A Nature-Cen...


Around the World

Seven tree house villas in Bali nestled among lush vegetation on a sloping site that …

Ftelia Beach Club


Around the World

Italian design meets modernist vibes in a tranquil retreat by the sea in Greece.
Nes…

Pa.te.os, A stunning coastal r...


Around the World

Four concrete houses that invite guests to lose themselves in a spectacular coastal l…

Staff Picks

Greenhouse

Conversations with Simone Bossi: Beyond the Lens and Into the Soul

Introducing the CLAE Appleskin™ Sneaker Capsule

Evelyn House

Stay Updated

FacebookPinterestRedditLinkedInEmailWhatsAppX