In this house near Nuremberg, the sauna, relaxation zone and bathroom started out as three separate rooms. Our task was to turn them into one connected home spa that feels like a single continuous route rather than three separate appointments in your own home.

Untreated natural wood, warm light and a pared-back material concept run through all three areas. An intricately patterned wallpaper with floral motifs forms the calm focal point of the lounging area and makes the sauna more than a purely functional cabin.

We deliberately kept the transitions open so that sightlines and the mood of the light don’t stop at the thresholds: mirrored surfaces make the space look larger, while textile surfaces in a muted blue deliberately counter the cool, tiled world of a classic bathroom.

The result is a private retreat that still looks like a holiday even after a long day – without the high upkeep of a full-blown spa suite. It was precisely this balance of effort and effect that won the owners over to the concept.