Sauna design requires careful consideration across several different areas. A properly designed sauna provides the best possible sauna experience and lasts for decades. The most important design considerations are sauna size, material choices, ventilation, and interior design and furnishing. All of these affect the sauna’s functionality, safety, and comfort.
What size sauna suits your needs?
The sauna size is determined by the number of users, available space, and budget. A one-person sauna requires about 2–3 square meters, while a 4–6 person sauna needs at least 6–8 square meters. The optimal height is 2.1–2.3 meters.
In sauna construction, calculating square footage is simple: multiply the sauna’s length by its width. Remember, however, that floor area alone doesn’t tell the whole story. Bench placement and movement space significantly affect the sauna’s functionality. Plan the space so that the benches have sufficient room for lying down and the heater maintains a safe distance.
In a small space, consider L-shaped benches that maximize seating and lying positions. In a larger sauna, you can choose the traditional straight bench design or even a U-shape that creates a communal atmosphere.
Which materials work best in a sauna?
When selecting sauna materials, aspen and alder are the best choices for bench boards and sauna panels. These wood types are knot-free and resin-free, and don’t heat unpleasantly even in the hottest steam. They withstand heat and moisture excellently.
Heat treatment further improves the wood’s properties. Heat-treated wood is more durable, deep brown in color, and has a pleasant aroma. The treatment occurs at 175–210 degrees using steam, making the process completely non-toxic and ecological.
The material choice for sauna benches and panels directly affects the quality of the sauna experience. Aspen and alder feel pleasant against the skin and don’t cause burns. These materials also breathe well, which helps with moisture management.
Radiata pine is also a viable option, especially when heat-treated. It works well as sauna interior material when you want variety in materials. When sourcing materials, explore our selection of high-quality wood products specifically designed for sauna applications.
How is sauna ventilation properly designed?
Properly designed ventilation ensures a good sauna experience and the durability of sauna structures. Intake air is usually taken from below the heater and exhaust air is directed from the opposite wall above the benches. Ventilation sizing is based on the sauna’s volume.
The intake air vent is positioned about 20–30 centimeters above the floor near the heater. This ensures that the air entering the heater is fresh and the heater’s combustion works optimally. The exhaust air vent is positioned on the opposite wall above the benches, about 30–50 centimeters from the ceiling.
Ventilation control capability is important. During steam sessions, vents can be partially closed so that moisture and heat remain in the sauna. After the sauna, vents are opened fully so moisture is removed effectively and the sauna dries properly.
Ensure that ventilation ducts are sufficiently large. Ducts that are too small cause drafts and impair sauna functionality.
What should you know about sauna interior design and furnishing?
Sauna benches are designed according to users’ needs. The lower bench is positioned about 45–50 centimeters above the floor and the upper bench 90–110 centimeters high. Bench depth is at least 60 centimeters, preferably 70–80 centimeters for lying down.
When selecting sauna interior materials, stick with natural materials. Avoid plastics and synthetic materials that can release harmful substances when heated. Wooden storage solutions, such as shelves for stones and ladles, fit well with the sauna atmosphere.
In lighting design, favor warm, dimly lit fixtures. LED lights are energy-efficient and withstand sauna conditions well. Position lights so they don’t glare at people sitting on the benches.
You need practical storage space for towels, steam water, and sauna accessories. Plan hooks or shelves outside the sauna in the changing area so moisture doesn’t affect clothing.
Sauna design is a comprehensive process where every detail affects the final result. The right material choices, functional ventilation, and carefully planned benches create a sauna you can enjoy for decades. We at Pieksäwood have over 20 years of experience in heat treatment and manufacturing high-quality sauna materials. We help you find the best solutions for your specific sauna plans. To discuss your project requirements, contact us for expert guidance on your sauna design.