Building on the ethos that Onsen has had from its inception, the interior for this extension acknowledges both the Japanese origins of the practice of bathing, and Onsen’s very unique position in an alpine landscape in southern New Zealand. 

Materials are either made by, or inspired by Japanese artisans, creating layers of texture, softness and character. There is a very strong purpose for each space - the intention is to very consciously bathe, rest, receive massage, or wash - either communally or individually, without distraction. There’s a purity of form we aimed to achieve, whereby luxury is expressed in beautiful proportions rather than excess. 

We carefully disrupted the spaces at times with strong interventions of pure nature, for example a large schist touchstone, native bonsai, swamp kauri turned timber furniture - in order to honour the place. 

Above all, the intended feeling of this place of safe exhilaration - a second to none engagement with an astonishing landscape along with a sense of protection, relaxedness and intimacy.