In Lausanne, from mid-October to the end of March, the Bains des Rives offers a timeless escape, a place that pays tribue to the natural elements. This temporary structure is designed as a sensory journey. The wooden deck takes us from the gentle warmth of the sauna yurts to the invigorating coolness of the lake water, not to mention the sensation of sand beneath our feet. It takes courage to face these natural elements. The light breeze sometimes tests this self-imposed discipline, that benefits both body and mind.
After this intense experience, which makes us feel our own bodies more intensely, we find refuge in the relaxation area, comfortably furnished in a Nordic style. In this oasis only open seasonally, the benefits of the sauna ritual are well established. In Lausanne, the venue brightens up the cold season.
Les Bains des Rives was brought to life by a collective of six passionate women from Lausanne’s entrepreneurial and cooperative circles. The group’s architects – RGB architectes and Teodori & Wellinger architectes – designed this temporary installation with a low-impact approach. The wooden structure, which is easy to assemble, dismantle and store, is placed directly on the ground. The yurts are insulated with organic textiles, including wool. Working with local companies, particularly for the carpentry and fireplaces, the architects custom-built the interior of the sauna yurts and relaxation area. The installation is attached to existing infrastructure, such as the showers at the Bellerive swimming pool. This seasonal structure returns every year with new features, much to the delight of sauna enthusiasts!
Before the return of the sunny days, let’s take advantage of the Bains des Rives to reconnect with our senses and feel more alive!
Geraldine Morand
Matthieu Croizier