In recent years, the tiny house movement has become increasingly popular, with people now opting to live in minimalist and simple homes. Arising as a response to society's consumption habits, this movement aims to create living spaces that are in harmony with nature, using minimal space. With sustainability being of paramount importance, these homes are typically designed with the concept of utilizing a single area for multiple functions.
The dimensions of tiny houses, which gained popularity in response to the economic crisis that began in the United States in 2008, can vary between 5-30 m2. These houses come in both mobile and stationary variations, making it easy to transport them to desired locations. One example of mobile homes includes floating houses.
Floating houses, which are similar in size to tiny houses, can be easily constructed and can go anywhere on the water. Designers who embark on the idea of creating a permanent living space also believe that floating studios, cafes, or vacation homes of minimal size can be used. The floating sauna built in Sweden in 2022 also supports this idea.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the floating sauna named Big Branzino located in Sweden.
Floating Sauna
Big Branzino, located in the waters of the Stockholm archipelago in Sweden, was designed by the architectural firm Sandellsandberd. Covering an area of 30 m2, the sauna's design by architects Thomas Sandell and Johan Strandlund was inspired by the idea of creating a form that best observes the archipelago and nature. The sauna, made of wood and situated on a steel catamaran, features glass on all sides, allowing the fire burning inside to be easily observed from the outside.
While cedar wood is used in the interior design of the floating sauna, pine wood is used for the exterior surfaces to harmonize with the environment and nature. The sauna section is located in the middle of the boat, there is a reception area at the front and a shower area at the back. On the upper floor of the boat, a terrace-like seating area, furnished with cedar wood furniture, has been created where the view can be enjoyed. The walls surrounding the upper deck are constructed at a height that blocks external noise, thus creating a quiet and comfortable relaxation area.
Designed with a minimalist perspective that seeks to change contemporary consumption habits, structures inspired by the tiny house movement offer both a promise of living in harmony with nature and the ability to relocate living spaces to desired locations. The floating sauna example, Big Branzino, also illustrates in line with this movement that minimalist yet comfortable, simple, and cozy spaces can be created.
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