A social experiment involving cucumber facials and group saunas? Strange but true. Located in a suburban area of East London, the Barking Bathhouse aims to recapture the communal spirit of historic bathhouses.
Designed by Something & Son (the cutting-edge firm behind FARM:shop), the pop-up spa and social space references the area’s industrial history (the black-stained timber frame exudes a sooty chic). Commissioned by arts agency Create, the Barking Bathhouse was sufficiently successful that it will reopen in a new location in spring 2013 (stay tuned).
Above: The exterior features black-stained timber.
Above: The bathhouse consists of a series of interconnected volumes.
Above: The cafe’s furniture is made from salvaged railroad timber.
Above: Various healthful libations are served in the courtyard cafe.
Above: Barking Bathhouse robes.
Above: In the sauna room, a wood-burning stove emits aromas of burning elm and birch. A concealed shutter releases excess steam, allowing the space to be ventilated naturally.
Above: A Barking Bathhouse robe.
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