February 20, 2025

The Banya Mullumbimby

Located in Mullumbimby, a locale known for its dedication to wellbeing, The Banya Bathhouse harmoniously amalgamates the practicalities of holistic habit with carefully curated design. This new bathhouse takes cues from the European lifestyle. Through The Banya, which translates to steam bath, founder Brendan Lawless presents a place of social interaction, one that prioritises the region’s demand for wellness.

“In Europe, going to the banya is a social experience, it’s in their blood. While we might go to the pub or a restaurant, they’ll go to the banya for a few hours. It’s food. It’s drinks. It’s wellness and connecting,” Lawless tells Case Study Journal.

The bathhouse pays homage to the site’s original context by preserving the authentic bank depositary and by utilising remaining bank safes – a concept put in motion by the talented Mardi Borrack from interior design firm Style Agenda. Renowned for her work in the film industry with credits including Moulin Rouge, Borrack’s experience within the parameters of specific time periods became a quintessential element to The Banya’s overall design.

The project was then meticulously transformed into a new era by local builders Swell Construction who honoured the site’s narrative and idiosyncrasies – namely the possum footprints ingrained in the 1920s brickwork – while overlaying contemporary features conceived to encourage tranquility.

A place of restoration and recharge, The Banya caters to a multitude of programs. In addition to the mineral pools, woodfired sauna, steam room, cold-plunge bath, there’s also several treatment rooms sprawled throughout the building. An overall immersive experience is encouraged and sustained right through to the post-relaxation amenities, with a rooftop deck for Vitamin D and dining focused on casual refinement and nutritious staples.

The Banya in Mullumbimby conveys equal consideration to social practices and wellness, creating an ambience that is personable and relaxed while heightening the connectivity between human connection and space. The Banya is a haven for health.