Sauna Sazae / Kengo Kuma & Associates

Architects: Kengo Kuma & Associates
Area: 8 m²
Year: 2022
Photographs: Keishin Horikoshi / SS Inc.
Illumination: ALG-Architectural Lighting Group
Design Team: Taichi Kuma
Facility: SANADA DENKI, Kimura Propane, BSA
Collaborators: Studio Nora
Publication: GA JAPAN
Cooperation: Ejiri Structural Engineers
City: Naoshima
Country: Japan

The “SAZAE” sauna, located at the “SANA MANE” glamping facility near Naoshima, features wood masonry crafted from 150 layers of CNC-processed 28 mm thick plywood, forming walls 450 mm thick for excellent insulation and heat retention. Its shell-like exterior creates striking shadows, while the interior’s soft pleats provide comfort, with light entering through an oculus for a meditative ambiance. Using 1,500 plywood sheets, the complex spiral geometry was precisely controlled with 3D CAD and programming. Advanced environmental simulations and forced ventilation ensure optimal temperature and humidity, offering a serene and innovative sauna experience.

“Design should lead the new era. Design should show a new lifestyle.”
Interview with Kengo Kuma of Kengo Kuma and Associates

The organic wooden sauna “SAZAE” is situated at the heart of the glamping facility “SANA MANE,” located near a small inlet in Naoshima.

The primary challenge involved constructing the wood masonry by stacking 150 layers of CNC-processed plywood, each 28 mm thick. This solid wood sauna features an average wall thickness of 450 mm, ensuring effective heat insulation and retention.

The exterior of the sauna features numerous folds resembling a shell, creating a surface with striking shadows. Inside, the pleats are softly contoured to support the body, ensuring a comfortable sitting experience. Light enters solely through an oculus, fostering a meditative ambiance.

Despite the complexity of the spiral pleated geometry, which involved 1,500 plywood sheets, the shape and paneling were precisely managed using 3D CAD and programming.

Unlike conventional saunas, the high-ceilinged design maintains optimal temperature and humidity levels through the strategic use of environmental simulations and a carefully designed forced ventilation airflow system.