On the small arctic island of Sandhornya, an isolated part of northern Norway, sits the world’s largest sauna known as Agora. This accommodating dry heat room is situated on the land’s beautifully desolate beach that overlooks the Norwegian Sea and its timber A-frame structure was built in conjunction with the arts festival SALT, which is a cultural platform promoting installations, music, and a collection of architecture.
Unlike many dark and enclosed saunas, the modern-looking, wood-fired Agora feels open and airy, with floor-to-ceiling front-facing windows that provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The large, welcoming space is meant as a place for social exchange, and the atmosphere is complemented with an ambient background soundtrack by the musician Biosphere. It also includes a bar, plus the capacity to accommodate 120 people at once with amphitheater-style seating.
If you want to experience Agora for yourself, there’s still time. SALT is up until September 1st, and the sauna is open every Saturday from noon until 6PM.
Above image credit: Martin Losvik
Image credit: Martin Losvik
Image credit: Martin Losvik
Image credit: Gunnar Holmstad
Image credit: Martin Losvik
Image credit: Martin Losvik
Image credit: Martin Losvik
Image credit: Marte Antonsen
Image credit: Martin Losvik
Image credit: Martin Losvik
SALT Festival: Website
via [designboom]