Situated in the richly forested Gauja National Park in Latvia, the Ziedlejas Latvian nature spa and wellness resort by Open AD is informed by local customs, services and materials, while incorporating modern standards to appeal to a wider audience.
The wellness resort includes three new corten steel and glass cabins alongside two renovated sauna buildings. Further plans include a third sauna along with additional cabins and an events space.
The two current sauna buildings remain honest to the tradition of Latvian sauna and the cleansing of the body, mind and soul. The traditional saunas however have been enhanced by the architects in terms of aesthetics and functionality. The Glass Sauna, for example, can now be accessed by persons with reduced mobility. Furthermore, the wider spaces and improved ventilation ensure a more comfortable environment for the sauna masters.
The three corten steel and glass cabins were inspired by the tiny living movement and Japanese way of life. Minimalist but packed with functionality, a table for serving herbal tea after the sauna slowly rises from the floor. A range of compact sleeping options, including a bespoke foldaway bed and mezzanine level area ensure the cabins are able to accommodate families and diverse groups.
Throughout, wood, metal and natural fabrics like linen make reference to traditional Latvian building materials, while the emphasis remains on the surrounding natural landscape, which floods into the cabins through the modern glazed frontages.
