Badweather turns derelict canal boat into London's first off-grid bathhouse
The architectural group Badweather has converted a 17-meter canal boat into Soak, which is recognized as London's inaugural off-grid bathhouse, moving locations every two weeks. This 56-foot widebeam has been refurbished to include a wood-fired sauna, two cold plunge pools, showers, changing rooms, and a small bar accommodating up to 12 guests. Operating independently from the grid, Soak sources its water from the canal, utilizing a six-stage UV filtration system, while solar panels provide electricity. Co-founder Leo Sixsmith and chef Riccardo Codacci-Pisanelli spearheaded the extensive renovation of this nearly derelict 20-year-old boat. Founded in 2019 in London by Oli Brenner, Sophie Mei Birkin, and Sixsmith, Badweather is celebrated for its innovative architectural designs. Photography by Kaye Song.
Key facts
- Badweather converted a 17-metre canal boat into Soak, London's first off-grid bathhouse.
- Soak moves to a new location along London's waterways every two weeks.
- The bathhouse includes a wood-fired sauna, two cold plunge pools, showers, changing facilities, and a bar for up to 12 people.
- It operates without mains water, electricity, or sewage, using canal water filtered through a six-stage UV system and solar panels for power.
- The project was developed by Leo Sixsmith and Riccardo Codacci-Pisanelli.
- The boat was a near-derelict 20-year-old vessel requiring extensive restoration by around 40 people.
- Interior features include stained marine plywood, pale green tiles, stainless-steel pools, and a sauna lined with thermally treated Aspen and Alder wood.
- Badweather was founded in London in 2019 by Oli Brenner, Sophie Mei Birkin, and Leo Sixsmith.
Entities
Artists
- Leo Sixsmith
- Riccardo Codacci-Pisanelli
- Oli Brenner
- Sophie Mei Birkin
Institutions
- Badweather
- Dezeen
Locations
- London
- United Kingdom
Sources
- Dezeen —