Breaking the Box: Rethinking What a Sauna Can Be

We often imagine saunas as simple, traditional boxes: four walls, a bench, a stove, and a door that closes the outside world away. For many people, this image defines what a sauna “should” look like. Tradition has its place, of course – the sauna is deeply rooted in culture, especially in the Nordic countries. But what if we allowed ourselves to think beyond that familiar shape?

Why limit the sauna experience to a box?

Design has the power to reshape how we experience spaces. When we question conventions, we open the door to new possibilities: saunas that invite more light inside, that frame the surrounding landscape, or that create new ways for people to gather and relax. A thoughtfully designed sauna can feel more open, more connected to nature, and more welcoming to a wider range of people.

But design is not only about appearance. When done well, it also makes the sauna work better. For example, the architecture of UNA Design Sauna isn’t just visually striking – it enhances functionality and reduces energy use. Its shape concentrates heat where it matters, while the 160 mm Finnish CLT solid wood stores and releases heat evenly, maintaining soft, consistent steam throughout the day. Thoughtful design also makes maintenance effortless, with controlled drainage, easy-to-clean surfaces, and durable construction built to withstand heavy daily use, making it ideal for both private and commercial settings.

UNA goes beyond the traditional sauna room by extending the experience outdoors. Its distinctive triangular form creates a sheltered terrace that doubles as a lounge for cooling down and relaxation. The space can comfortably fit a jacuzzi, seating, or even a fireplace, while an optional glazed enclosure transforms it into a cozy “kota lounge” for year-round use. This multifunctional design naturally combines sauna bathing, cooling, and socializing into a single immersive experience – all without the need for separate buildings.

At Desavu, we enjoy exploring possibilities

Challenging conventional thinking is part of our design philosophy. Sometimes it means experimenting with new forms. Sometimes it means rethinking how the interior works, how people move inside the space, or how the sauna interacts with its surroundings. Even small design decisions can significantly change the atmosphere and usability of a sauna.

Innovation does not mean abandoning tradition. In fact, the opposite is often true. By understanding the essence of the sauna experience – warmth, relaxation, social connection, and the calming rhythm of heat and cool – we can design spaces that enhance those qualities in new ways. Good design respects tradition while allowing it to evolve.

When a sauna breaks away from the expected shape, it often becomes something more memorable. A space that surprises you. A space that invites curiosity. A place where people pause a little longer, look around, and feel that something about the experience is special.

Sometimes, breaking the box is exactly what we need