Nature Folk is a modern bathhouse, sauna and body work facility, located on the Dartmouth Waterfront. It is a space that encourages slowing down, quieting the chatter, and stepping into connection with oneself.

Located on the Dartmouth Boardwalk, the space is designed with a nod to ancient bathing facilities and traditional nordic spas, bringing a sense of refuge and community to otherwise our fragmented, overstimulated senses.

Architecture of Stillness, the renovation process

Nature Folk resides in the former Dartmouth City Hall, a place of historical significance for our community. In 2021, the space underwent a complete overhaul—the abandoned space is now home to over 30 staff and hundreds of clients per week.

A light, neutral palette transforms the curved space into a calming refuge. Although the energy may be less lively than in previous iterations, the spirit of gathering and connection with others still remains.

Materials were chosen to complement certain original design details of the 1960s Brutalist structure, introducing an air of softness to the sanctuary. A long curved oak clad hallway leads to an open-aired grand rotunda. Where once city councilors met to discuss important business there is now a modern bathhouse devoted to creating a sense of sublime relaxation and stillness. Here wellness seekers can recline on cushions & bolsters after their sauna and bathing experience to immerse themselves in reconnecting with the intuitive self.

At its very core, Nature Folk embodies an age-old principle of sauna culture, an inclusive space to welcome people to gather in a healing ritual, innate to the human experience. This space is consciously minimal, bathed in pacifying low light & drawing the attention inward. This allows the five senses to relax into presence & awareness. It is here that the spa goer can truly connect with the ancient meaning of “healing through water”. 

  • A warm pool & a cold plunge pool are nestled into the original terrazzo steps, flanked by two large Finnish saunas. A “ritual corner” is tucked away to the side, furnished with body scrubs & clay masks to use in the shower. The circuit facilities include two gendered locker room & an inclusive one.

  • There are four private infrared sauna rooms, each with state of the art saunas with chroma therapy. Each has a private shower & seating area. These private saunas offer a perfect opportunity to take a moment to yourself, for either 30 or 60 minutes.

  • Three treatment rooms are available for our bespoke bodywork sessions, osteopathy and naturopathy. Consult our menu to make your choice!

  • A space for community, a bright & airy design with doors that open to the outside. Yoga, Pilates & breath-work classes are offered & the space is available for event rentals.

  • An accessible washroom & shower are also included in the facility.