In Senohraby, not far from Prague, an enchanting garden has recently been created that conceals a magical place. Wellness Infinit SEN is the work of the Reaktor architectural studio, and it draws attention primarily through the harmonious integration of its interior with the surrounding natural environment. The designers were tasked with adding the entire space to the existing Hotel Sen, which has stood in this small village in the Central Bohemian Region since 1996 and has itself recently undergone renovations. Fortunately, the designers moved away from the romantic style of the main building and sought to infuse the relaxation area with a much more modern aesthetic.
The individual sauna cabins are arranged to ensure sufficient privacy, so that no one disturbs you while you’re warming your bones. At the same time, the designers paid close attention to the overall atmosphere of the place, which aims to be dreamlike and magical. Small details, overgrown paths, and mysterious glowing stones all contribute to the unique character of this sauna oasis. The sense of connection with nature is enhanced not only by the choice of cladding materials and the sophisticated integration of plants but also by the fact that the roofs of the sauna cabins are covered with greenery. Every design lover will appreciate the polished typography and wayfinding system. The decoration of the individual rooms is particularly unconventional. The walls, for example, are adorned with motifs of leaves or ears of grain. Wellness Infinit SEN is simply a must-visit for any aesthete who has fallen under the spell of saunas.
If you’re looking for a tasteful and unconventional spot right in the heart of Prague, your choice is clear—NÁRODNÍ SAUNA. Located directly within the National Theater building, this sauna is a guaranteed gem. It was founded by the trio of Lukáš Otevřel, Stanislav Majer, and Miroslav Sládek. What makes it so irresistible is that it wasn’t built in recent years. On the contrary, it has been operating for more than thirty years under the roof of the Brutalist building designed by architect Pavel Kupka. Originally, it served as a relaxation spot for local ballerinas and artists, but today you, too, can enjoy its unique genius loci. The ’80s vibe is unapologetically on display here, yet it doesn’t detract from the interior’s warmth.
The renovation was handled by the Prague-based studio Edit!, which is also responsible for projects such as the popular Místo café in Dejvice and the Cobra venue in Letná. True to their creative DNA, they didn’t over-design this sauna but instead let the authentic character of the space shine through. The original chandeliers and period ceiling remain, while the old carpet and modular furniture have been removed. The sauna at the National Theater is a must-see for true fans of stylish architecture. But be warned: getting in isn’t easy. Capacity is very limited. That makes a visit to this charismatic spot all the more rewarding.
A breathtaking venue that has only recently seen the light of day is Cellularium, designed by the renowned Formafatal studio led by architect Dagmar Štěpánová. She gained fame primarily through the construction of a villa in Costa Rica, for which she received numerous international awards and whose photos have appeared in virtually every prestigious magazine. Her studio also took home the top prize in the Public Interior category at the Interior of the Year competition for the interior design of this spa gem. Formafatal isn’t afraid to think outside the box; its designs are always striking in both form and color, and its work is anything but ordinary. The Institute of Natural Medicine and its spa, designed by the studio this year, are no exception.
The Finnish sauna and cryosauna are located in a space spanning more than 150 m² and are primarily intended for the institute’s clients. Here you’ll find products from brands such as Flos, Hay, and Foscarini, with concrete, granite, and oak dominating the materials. The designers approached the color palette naturally and intuitively. The hot sauna is thus defined by the color red, while the cold therapy area, conversely, draws you in with a cool blue hue. An important element is the dynamic walls, which imaginatively divide the interior and bring depth and intimacy to the space. The refined use of materials, color, and texture perfectly captures the desired emotions. You can feel the mysterious, subtle, yet intense and all-powerful force of ancient rituals and nature. Cellularium pays homage to traditional ceremonies, but in a thoroughly modern interpretation.
