Outdoor wellbeing

When it comes to trends, fashion, interior design, cars, Kiwis often look to the United Kingdom and Europe to see what’s trending.

One emerging summer trend in the UK is the garden sauna. London-based, award-winning interior design studio Black & Milk last year unveiled the pictured design of an outdoor banya sauna in Hampstead London. The banya, shortlisted for a 2023 Don’t Move, Improve! award, had a budget of just over £1 million.

The unique garden house doubles as an holistic sanctuary, featuring a sauna, bucket shower, and plunge pool. Taking inspiration from the surrounding woodlands, the holistic language of harmony and relaxation was distilled and applied to both the architectural and interior design.

The overall spatial flow was configured to allow for the space to be multifunctional. While the garden home functions as both a guest house and a hidden retreat, many notable points within the modern cabin allow the user to feel one with nature. Ample roof lighting, dramatic woodland views, and a sensory experience to the dining area add to the holistic approach of spa traditions, offering a sanctuary for relaxation while sipping on herbal teas.

A traditional wood burner sits amongst the timber-finished interior, the latter creating a snug, warm, place to relax while using the sauna during colder months. A clever pull-out bed system is implemented in the design to accommodate guests.

Another notable feature is a bespoke shower with a large glass panel bringing woodland views indoors. For more inspiration, visit the website blackandmilk.co.uk