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Issue 63 - Kitchen & Bathroom Issue

Issue 63

Kitchen & Bathroom Issue

Habitus 63 is arguably the most aspirational issue of the year with Kitchens & Bathrooms to dream about. Whether a family hub, an entertainer’s paradise or somewhere to grad a quick meal, how we live in and spend time in the kitchen is a very personal question that requires thought and an abundance of resources. Always the aspirational eye candy of design, we have some truly lovely kitchens from Greg Natale, YSG, Splinter Society, Sally Caroline and Studio Johnston. Bathrooms are just as important with Greg Natale, Studio Tate, YSG and Those Architects sharing some fabulous insights

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European sauna heritage meets Australian wellness culture
Design StoriesSarah Hetherington

European sauna heritage meets Australian wellness culture

Saunas of the World is pioneering a new era of authentic luxury wellness through traditional craftsmanship, modern innovation and bespoke design.


In a country where wellness culture thrives yet sauna tradition has remained largely unexplored, a visionary saw an opportunity to bridge European heritage with Australia‘s appetite for authentic wellness experiences. Today, Saunas of the World stands as the country’s leading authority in bespoke sauna craftsmanship, transforming how Australians approach the ancient ritual of wellness, restoration and balance.

The journey began when Mariusz Matkowski, founder of Saunas of the World, arrived from Poland in 2014 and discovered an intriguing gap in Australia’s wellness market. Despite a strong focus on health and wellbeing, the experiential sauna culture that forms an integral part of European life was virtually absent. Where sceptics saw a warm climate unsuitable for saunas, Mario recognised an untapped desire for authentic wellness rituals that transcend mere temperature.

“The real sauna experience is never just about heat,” reflects the philosophy that drives every Saunas of the World project. “It’s about ritual, craftsmanship, and long-term health benefits.” This understanding has positioned the company as pioneers in bringing genuine European sauna culture to Australian residential and commercial wellness environments.

What distinguishes Saunas of the World in the marketplace is their commitment to bespoke design. Every project begins as a unique concept, tailored specifically to the client’s vision, needs and space. From intimate residential retreats to expansive commercial wellness zones, each sauna represents a marriage of traditional European craftsmanship with contemporary Australian design sensibilities. Tactile and natural timbers including Aspen and Western Red Cedar form the foundation, while precision engineering ensures every detail serves both form and function.

Central to this authenticity is Saunas of the World’s exclusive partnership with EOS, Germany’s leading sauna equipment manufacturer. As the official Australian dealer for EOS, the company brings world-class German engineering to local projects. Representing the gold standard in sauna technology; heaters, infrared panels, controllers, and safety systems are renowned globally for innovation, performance, and sleek design that integrates seamlessly into both residential and commercial environments, with uncompromising quality.

For architects, designers, and wellness seekers who understand that luxury lies in authenticity, Saunas of the World offers unlimited design flexibility and access to special materials upon request. The results reflect more than construction; it’s the cultivation of wellness culture, bringing centuries of European sauna tradition into harmony with Australian lifestyle aspirations. With projects from Sydney to the Sunshine Coast, Saunas of the World and EOS equipment are available nationwide.

In transforming how Australians approach wellness rituals, Saunas of the World has proven that climate need not dictate culture, and that authentic, restorative experiences will always find their audience among those who value craftsmanship, heritage, and genuine wellbeing.


About the Author

Sarah Hetherington

Tags

ArchitectureAustraliaBespoke Designcommercial wellnessEOSEuropean saunaGermanyhealth and wellbeingInterior Designluxury wellness


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Issue 63 - Kitchen & Bathroom Issue

Issue 63

Kitchen & Bathroom Issue

Habitus 63 is arguably the most aspirational issue of the year with Kitchens & Bathrooms to dream about. Whether a family hub, an entertainer’s paradise or somewhere to grad a quick meal, how we live in and spend time in the kitchen is a very personal question that requires thought and an abundance of resources. Always the aspirational eye candy of design, we have some truly lovely kitchens from Greg Natale, YSG, Splinter Society, Sally Caroline and Studio Johnston. Bathrooms are just as important with Greg Natale, Studio Tate, YSG and Those Architects sharing some fabulous insights

Order Issue