Flora & Sauna

Landscape Studio
University of Toronto, 3rd year MArch
Rhino, Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, GIS
Individual work

Living on the edge, Newfoundland’s population has adapted to the harsh conditions of a coastal environment. New-Wes-Valley’s population is predominantly employed by the fishing industry, a strenuous labor force that causes joint and muscle issues over time. In an aging population, arthritis is constraining to the affected people in their every day life. Heat and cold therapy has the potential to improve living quality and help reduce Arthritis pain. Sauna-Culture is a traditional activity mostly practiced by northern and Scandinavian countries as a form of physical therapy and socializing, a pastime which is not found in Newfoundland. Saunas are often perceived as a luxury activity done in a spa environment, whereas in Scandinavia it is an every day routine regardless of socio-economic status.

The proposed sauna design is constructed from local recycled materials and accommodates the skill sets of local laborers, consequently helping the people of Newtown with their physical ailments and creating an opportunity in an untapped market of Sauna-tourism in Newfoundland.