DinellJohansson’s floating sauna, verdigris-green, on Hornstull waterfront, accommodates 16 visitors, creating a unique gathering place.

Innovative Floating Sauna Unveiled on Stockholm’s Hornstull Waterfront

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Written by Seth Sebastian

2026-09-27

A striking new sauna facility, designed by DinellJohansson, has made its home at the Hornstull waterfront in Stockholm. This modern facility occupies the spot formerly held by the historic Liljeholmsbadet, which was relocated to Marievik following its removal in October 2025. The project represents a significant update to the area, providing an inviting social hub along the water’s edge.

This architectural innovation also reflects a broader trend in contemporary design. Discover top architectural projects at Dezeen Awards to see how design pushes boundaries worldwide.

Collaborating closely with the Traffic Office and landscape architects, DinellJohansson crafted this waterfront design to enhance the public promenade. It features not only a sauna but also a pier and public access areas, unified by an elegantly designed pergola.

Verdigris-green floating sauna by DinellJohansson at Hornstull, adjacent to public pier and pergola seating.
DinellJohansson’s floating sauna at Hornstull pairs a verdigris-green exterior with a public pier and pergola, creating a new waterfront gathering place for up to 16 visitors.
View of verdigris-green floating sauna with wooden pier, Pergola offers shaded seating for visitors.
DinellJohansson’s floating sauna at Hornstull pairs a verdigris-green exterior with a public pier and pergola, creating a new waterfront gathering place for up to 16 visitors.

The Sauna Experience

The sauna’s facade and roof boast a verdigris-green hue, contributing to its distinctive appearance along the waterfront. This vivid color choice ensures the building stands out, while integrated lighting creates visual intrigue during evening hours, illuminating the structure from within.

DinellJohansson’s floating sauna features a verdigris-green design, set by a wooden pier at Hornstull.
DinellJohansson’s floating sauna at Hornstull pairs a verdigris-green exterior with a public pier and pergola, creating a new waterfront gathering place for up to 16 visitors.

Designed to Work From Every Side

DinellJohansson’s design activates every side of the structure, offering various functions and engaging vistas. This thoughtful arrangement aims to create a welcoming atmosphere along the waterfront both day and night with the innovative use of floating sauna concepts.

Side view of Hornstull's floating sauna with public pier and green exterior providing a scenic escape.
DinellJohansson’s floating sauna at Hornstull pairs a verdigris-green exterior with a public pier and pergola, creating a new waterfront gathering place for up to 16 visitors.

Building, Pier and Pergola Become One Structure

The sauna and pier are designed as a cohesive architectural entity. The pergola contributes to this unity, forming a sheltered public space next to the sauna. DinellJohansson also oversaw the project’s procurement documentation, liaising with the construction team for its further development.

Sauna’s green facade blends with waterfront, offering serene views from the Hornstull pier.
DinellJohansson’s floating sauna at Hornstull pairs a verdigris-green exterior with a public pier and pergola, creating a new waterfront gathering place for up to 16 visitors.
Floating sauna by DinellJohansson, verdigris-green with wooden pier, nestled on Hornstull’s waterfront.
DinellJohansson’s floating sauna at Hornstull pairs a verdigris-green exterior with a public pier and pergola, creating a new waterfront gathering place for up to 16 visitors.
Hornstull-crafted floating sauna, wrapped in verdigris-green, echoes natural tones of the water.
DinellJohansson’s floating sauna at Hornstull pairs a verdigris-green exterior with a public pier and pergola, creating a new waterfront gathering place for up to 16 visitors.
Visitors enjoy Hornstull’s floating sauna with its verdigris-green finish and attached wooden pergola.
DinellJohansson’s floating sauna at Hornstull pairs a verdigris-green exterior with a public pier and pergola, creating a new waterfront gathering place for up to 16 visitors.
A peaceful gathering spot on the water, showcasing DinellJohansson's green sauna and public seating.
DinellJohansson’s floating sauna at Hornstull pairs a verdigris-green exterior with a public pier and pergola, creating a new waterfront gathering place for up to 16 visitors.

A Compact Sauna Built for Public Use

Accommodating 14 to 16 visitors, the sauna is accessible with a nominal admission fee, while the pergola area offers public access. The facility is cleverly designed to include changing rooms, staff areas, and necessary utilities within its compact footprint, showcasing innovative floating architecture.

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The verdigris-green sauna contrasts against blue waters, enhancing Hornstull's innovative waterfront appeal.
DinellJohansson’s floating sauna at Hornstull pairs a verdigris-green exterior with a public pier and pergola, creating a new waterfront gathering place for up to 16 visitors.
Floating sauna on Hornstull’s waters, connecting green design with community through shared experience.
DinellJohansson’s floating sauna at Hornstull pairs a verdigris-green exterior with a public pier and pergola, creating a new waterfront gathering place for up to 16 visitors.
Community gathers around green floating sauna, enjoying unique aquatic views at Hornstull’s pier.
DinellJohansson’s floating sauna at Hornstull pairs a verdigris-green exterior with a public pier and pergola, creating a new waterfront gathering place for up to 16 visitors.
InteRA urban waterfront complemented by DinellJohansson’s verdigris-green sauna at Stockholm Hornstull.
DinellJohansson’s floating sauna at Hornstull pairs a verdigris-green exterior with a public pier and pergola, creating a new waterfront gathering place for up to 16 visitors.

A Splash of Green in the Changeroom

Inside, the sauna extends its green theme to the changing room. Vertical panels and storage in bright green create a cohesive feel, enhanced by a teardrop-shaped mirror and functional fittings that add a playful touch.

Calm ambiance created by green floating sauna’s integration with Hornstull’s vibrant pier and pergola.
DinellJohansson’s floating sauna at Hornstull pairs a verdigris-green exterior with a public pier and pergola, creating a new waterfront gathering place for up to 16 visitors.

With its dynamic design and engaging spaces, DinellJohansson’s creation offers a contemporary interpretation of the former Liljeholmsbadet site, creating an active and inviting destination for relaxation and community gathering.

Photography by Victor Johansson | Architecture firm: DinellJohansson | Client: Trafikkontoret, Stockholm stad | Builder: Marinbastun | Pontoon: Svenska pontonhamnar | Markentreprenad: Dipart | Groundworks: Sventab (diving) | Landscape: SWMS | Consulting constructor: Apex | Contractor details: Lindab (roof), Örsjö, ifö, Alab (door), Svalson (windows), Sitab, Oxcala, Harvia, Floda systemskylt, Ribe gardin, SCA

Source: contemporist.com

Frequently asked questions

Where is the new floating sauna located?

The new floating sauna is located on the Hornstull waterfront in Stockholm.

What is the color of the sauna’s facade and roof?

The sauna’s facade and roof boast a verdigris-green hue, contributing to its distinctive appearance along the waterfront.

How many visitors can the sauna accommodate?

The sauna is designed to accommodate 14 to 16 visitors.