Sauna specialist Effe (formerly Effegibi) has introduced its new sauna and hammam collection, Baluar, designed by architect and designer Patricia Urquiola.

Urquiola is an international artist, and she has specialised in industrial product design, strategy consulting, art direction and architecture for hospitality, retail, residential and exhibitions. 

Baluar is a modular collection of saunas and hammams that have been envisioned to offer compact solutions that can be configured in multiple ways depending on available space. 

The concept is inspired by an architectural element used in fortifications in medieval times, the bastion. Baluar offers a modern-day shelter that offers a sanctuary for bathers to recharge.

Urquiola said: “Baluar is inspired by an ancient structure – the medieval bastion – that looks outwards but offers shelter within its walls. I wanted to transform this architectural element into a wellness space, a compact, almost archetypal space where you can relax and unwind. The system combines a sauna and hammam in a modular structure that adapts to any environment, while still making a bold design statement.”

The system uses heat-treated lime wood cladding, available in either a dark or light tone, with narrow vertical grooving. The hammam interior finish features Conchiglia or Nocci mosaic. The lighting can be controlled to set the mood for an immersive experience.

Marco Borghetti, CEO of Effe, said: “Baluar sets a new standard on our journey. Our partnership with Patricia Urquiola and her team has opened up new avenues, allowing us to explore exciting new shapes and take on new construction challenges. The dialogue between the company and the designer revealed a deep connection, a shared understanding that has given us a new and more contemporary focus.

“Patricia Urquiola’s ability to blend heat, material and function is taking us in a new direction, where the focus is no longer just on the technology but on spaces that speak to the emotions,” added Borghetti. “Places where heat and steam rituals can offer an emotional experience to bathers.”

The dimensions for a singular sauna or hammam are 220sq cm and a height of 230cm.

The dimensions for a combined sauna and hammam are 440 x 220cm and a height of 230cm.