Sorrento Bathhouse Mornington Peninsula building photos, Victoria property, Melbourne residence design
Sorrento Bathhouse on the Mornington Peninsula
28 May 2025
The Sorrento Bathhouse offers an elevated, boutique retreat experience, designed as a private day space ideal for wellness and relaxation.
Design: Davidov Architects
Location: Sorrento, Mornington Peninsula, Victoria, Australia
Photos by Timothy Kaye
Sorrento Bathhouse, Mornington Peninsula, Victoria,, Australia
Drawing inspiration from sculptural, barn-like architecture, the space seamlessly combines robust elements with a warm, inviting atmosphere. The bathhouse features a sauna, jacuzzi, and versatile communal areas, providing an environment that supports both solitude and social connection. With a carefully considered material palette and thoughtful lighting, the interior fosters a meditative ambiance that enhances the overall sense of escape and renewal.
Our design was driven by the pursuit of purity – both in form and materiality. The architecture presents a sculptural barn-like volume, with a singular, robust exterior material that establishes a strong visual presence. Inside, the transition from concrete to warm timber veneer creates a tactile and atmospheric shift, enhancing the sensory experience. Geometry, symmetry, and natural light shape the space, guiding the user through an immersive journey of calm and contemplation.
The brief was clear yet open-ended: while a sauna and jacuzzi were essential, the multi-purpose space required more nuanced exploration. We envisioned a flexible environment suitable for various uses—whether a family retreat, a pause during a tennis match, or an independent wellness experience. Located beneath a Tasmanian Red Gum and a Moonah tree, the site reinforces a sense of seclusion and ritual.
Environmental considerations played a key role, with a west-facing loggia shielding glazing and providing informal seating. Sculptural ceilings and a baffled skylight allow natural light to evolve throughout the day, enhancing the changing ambiance. Durable materials, such as bluestone, concrete, and timber, ensure longevity in the coastal climate.
This project exemplifies interior design excellence through its commitment to restraint, purity, and the sculptural interplay of form and light. By stripping away unnecessary details, the space is defined by its geometry and natural phenomena, offering a refreshing alternative to conventional wellness spaces. The design is both refined and unpretentious, encouraging guests to engage with their surroundings on a deeper, more personal level.
Sustainability is a key consideration throughout. Passive design strategies, such as the west-facing loggia offering shade, and the pitched roof enhancing insulation, contribute to the bathhouse’s energy efficiency. The material palette prioritizes durability in the coastal environment, with bluestone tiling, concrete, and moisture-resistant sealed timber panelling selected for their longevity and low maintenance.
This project redefines luxury, focusing not on opulence, but on spatial clarity and thoughtful simplicity. By fostering a meditative atmosphere, it invites guests to experience light, texture, and warmth in meaningful ways, positioning the bathhouse as a new typology of retreat space for rejuvenation and reflection.
The bathhouse’s most innovative aspect is its approach to light modulation. A custom-designed baffle prevents direct sunlight from entering the clerestory, while concealing artificial lighting and mechanical systems. This singular not only enhances spatial drama but also ensures functional efficiency.
Where traditional wellness spaces often rely on opulence, this design finds richness in restraint. The sparse yet dynamic lighting strategy creates an evolving atmosphere that shifts from day to night. By prioritizing spatial purity and intentional design, the project presents a fresh perspective on contemporary wellness, elevating simplicity into a transformative experience.
Sorrento Bathhouse on Mornington Peninsula, Victoria, Australia – Property Information
Architecture: Davidov Architects – https://www.davidov.com.au/
Photography: Timothy Kaye
Sorrento Bathhouse, Mornington Peninsula, Australia – information / images received 280525
Location: Mornington Peninsula, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
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