Yutori Sauna – Mangawhai, New Zealand

Designed by Studio Adelle Sanders Architects, the sauna demonstrates how modest architecture can deliver an extraordinary experience. The compact form sits comfortably within its coastal surroundings, while a carefully detailed timber envelope gives the building a crafted and enduring character. To realise this vision, the design team selected Abodo Vulcan Shingles, creating a richly textured exterior that references traditional shingle architecture while feeling contemporary and refined. The layered timber skin brings depth, shadow and warmth to the façade, allowing the building to feel grounded in its environment while expressing the craftsmanship at the heart of the project.

Crafted from thermally modified New Zealand timber, Vulcan Shingles were selected for both their performance and aesthetic qualities. Designed for durability and stability, they are particularly well suited to demanding coastal environments where sun, wind and salt exposure are constant considerations. Their textured profile creates a dynamic façade that changes with shifting light throughout the day, while the timber's natural weathering process will gradually transform the exterior to a soft silver-grey patina. This evolution enhances the connection between architecture and landscape, reflecting a growing design philosophy that celebrates materials ageing honestly and beautifully over time.

Sustainability was a core consideration throughout the project. For the Yutori team, Abodo's commitment to locally grown New Zealand timber and responsible manufacturing aligned strongly with their own values around environmental stewardship and community wellbeing. The project team were particularly drawn to the efficient use of resource streams within Abodo's manufacturing process, with Vulcan Shingles representing an innovative way to maximise value from every tree harvested. The decision to specify New Zealand-grown timber was about more than environmental performance. It was also an investment in local industries, skills and communities connected to forestry, manufacturing and construction.

Reflecting on the project, the Yutori Sauna team described the partnership with Abodo as a natural fit.

"Tom and I have really enjoyed working with Abodo on this project. They've been great from the start and the brand aligns with exactly what we're trying to do, creating a sustainable high-end product."

"Something we really love about Abodo is the fact that the pine is grown here in New Zealand. It supports truck drivers, tree fellers and a full local community. We're really stoked for a company to finally come up with a product that is 100% sustainable here."

As interest in wellness-focused architecture continues to grow, Yutori Sauna demonstrates how thoughtful design and authentic materials can create meaningful places that foster connection, restoration and a deeper relationship with nature.