Italian collective the Network of Architecture (noa*) have completed their apple-inspired spa and wellness centre for a boutique hotel in Italy’s Passiria Valley.

The outer structure of the Applesauna wellness building is totally green, and is experienced as a hill. It evolves into a “mystical and intimate space” as guests move inside to use the sauna, showers and relaxation area.

A key element of the design is the cycle of the apple throughout the year, from bloom to harvest, and the natural world.

The earth-coloured concrete walls pursue the lines of the wooden slats of the sauna benches and highlight the sloped core of the centre. Concrete lamps form the lighting of the interiors and big window openings provide a view towards the surrounding apple trees.

The new facilities are an extension of the Apfelhotel Torgglerhof hotel, which is spread across three farm buildings in the town of Saltaus. Nine new suites and an apple farming museum have been added to the hotel as part of a wider redevelopment project.