# How To Design A Sauna? - Link: https://newsa.ntplstaging.com/how-to-design-a-sauna/ - Published: 2023-03-02T01:14:49-05:00 - Author: Sauna Specialist What should you consider when planning a sauna renovation? There are various options available to suit different needs and preferences. We’ve put together an information pack to guide you through every stage of your sauna renovation. A sauna renovation begins with a vision: imagine what your ideal sauna would look and feel like, and consider the features you want it to have. Once you have a clear picture of your dream sauna, it’s time to take measurements. Measure the width, height, and depth of the sauna, as well as the window and door openings. Don’t forget to measure the log, stone, and window surfaces that affect the heating power requirements. This will help professionals select the right sauna heater for your space. ## Permits and structures Generally, renovating a sauna in a detached house does not require a building permit or an action notification. Permits are only necessary for demolishing or building a load-bearing structure, or if you’re expanding the bathroom. You must obtain a permit if you’re constructing a completely new bathroom or sauna. In these cases, it’s best to contact the building control services of your local municipality. If you live in a housing company, you must notify the board of directors before starting any renovation. Housing companies typically require professionals to handle waterproofing and electrical work. Therefore, secure all necessary permits before beginning demolition. ## Demolishing an old sauna ![](https://newsa.ntplstaging.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/old-sauna-1024x883. webp) When demolishing an old sauna, inspect the underlying structures and repair them as needed before installing new surfaces. Ensure the aluminum paper remains intact and leak-proof. If it’s damaged, check for underlying issues. If everything is in good condition, proceed with installing the new surfaces. Glass walls are a popular choice in sauna renovations and can be installed based on the wall and door structure. During demolition, a professional should assess feasibility. If necessary, reinforce the existing wall for added support. ## Updating the building solutions to modern times Over the past few decades, construction technology has advanced significantly, offering new solutions and materials to replace older ones. While urethane-based insulation materials have been available for some time, they weren’t commonly used in saunas built 20-30 years ago. The advantage of urethane sheets as insulation is their thinness. For instance, a 30 mm urethane sheet is equivalent to 80 mm of mineral wool insulation. Replacing the old insulation can save up to 5 cm in wall thickness, which is especially beneficial in smaller spaces. Waterproofing products have also improved significantly, reducing the risk of water damage. Please note that if you replace a woodburning stove with an electric heater, the old masonry flue cannot be paneled over or have benches installed on top of it if the flue remains in use. Often, there may be a fireplace, iron stove, or similar appliance on the side of the wall, connected to the same flue. While the masonry can be tiled over, nothing can be affixed to it. Always check with the local fire authority to ensure compliance with safety regulations. ## Electrical installations in a sauna renovation ![](https://newsa.ntplstaging.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/sauna-renovation-1024x616. webp) Electrical work in a sauna must always be performed by a licensed professional. It’s essential to consult an expert electrical designer well in advance when planning your sauna’s electrical setup. During a sauna renovation, relocating the sauna heater is typically unnecessary. However, if you’re using an electric sauna heater, repositioning is generally possible if desired. Plan electrical wiring modifications early in the renovation process. Electricians place supply current cables within the wall insulation, so address these considerations during demolition. Once surface materials are installed, modifying the electrical setup becomes impossible. ## Choosing benches and surface materials ![](https://newsa.ntplstaging.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/design-sauna-info-1024x307. webp) In sauna design, you need to consider how many people will be using the sauna at the same time and how often. The seat for one person is usually 60 cm in width. If you want to have as many seats as possible in the sauna and the space is fairly small, a simple straight bench is usually the best solution. If you try to install a corner bench or even a U-shaped bench in a small sauna, the end result may feel cramped and uncomfortable to use. This means that you need to be realistic and consider the space when choosing the bench model. ## Several options for sauna materials When it comes to materials, you have several options for both benches and walls. Popular choices for benches include reddish-brown alder, light-colored aspen, and heat-treated aspen. For a more dynamic look, pale spruce can be combined with black accents. All Harvia saunas use sustainable sourced wood. For the walls, traditional wooden paneling remains a classic option, but there is plenty of room for creativity. Stone accents can add texture and character, while replacing the front wall with a glass is an increasingly popular choice, offering a sense of spaciousness and a modern aesthetic. The paneling itself can also help shape the sauna’s atmosphere. Combining different shapes, colors, and installation methods allows for a truly personalized design. ![](https://newsa.ntplstaging.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/air-benches-825x510- 1.webp) Exclusive Air benches of Effex ![](https://newsa.ntplstaging.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/solide-bench-825x510- 1.webp) Harvia Solide bench model of transparent white spruce ![](https://newsa.ntplstaging.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/block-bench-825x510- 1.webp) Harvia Block bench model of heat-treated aspen ## Adding to the sauna experience ![](https://newsa.ntplstaging.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/design-sauna-info-two- 1024x682.webp) ## How To Design A Sauna? ### Hybrid saunas You can create a unique mood and atmosphere in a sauna through thoughtful design choices. The placement of wall panels, selection of wood, surface treatments, and the use of indirect LED or colored lighting all contribute to the sauna’s overall ambiance. For those looking to elevate their sauna experience, numerous options are available. **Hybrid saunas** are growing in popularity, combining traditional heating methods, with infrared technology. In addition to an electric or wood-burning sauna heater, hybrid saunas feature one or more infrared radiators, typically placed behind the upper bench. Unlike traditional heaters, infrared radiators directly warm the individual instead of heating the entire sauna space. Infrared heat penetrates up to 5 cm into the skin tissue, providing deep warmth. You can enjoy the benefits of the infrared heater while using the sauna or even while sitting in you regular clothes on a chilly day. It’s also possible to use both the sauna heater and the infrared radiators simultaneously, provided the temperature does not exceed 70°C. Like traditional saunas, infrared cabins offer significant health benefits, including the expansion of peripheral blood vessels and pain relief. ![](https://newsa.ntplstaging.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/water-dispenser-1024x682. webp) An **automated water dispenser** allows you to lie back and enjoy the humid heat with the simple press of a button. The dispenser either operates automatically at set intervals or activates manually when you press a button.  Additionally, you can enhance the experience by adding your favorite sauna fragrance to the dispenser, creating a personalized and relaxed atmosphere. ![](https://newsa.ntplstaging.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/sauna-steamer.webp) A [**Sauna Steamer**](https://newsa.ntplstaging.com/how-to-design-a-sauna/#) is an excellent accessory for those who love bathing in a very humid and steamy sauna. The steamer is an add-on device that works independently along with an electric heater to make the sauna experience more gentle and humid. You can add a nice atmosphere to the sauna by playing music. Install [**loudspeakers **](https://newsa.ntplstaging.com/how-to-design-a-sauna/#) to the sauna and play your favorite music or nature sounds by connecting them to your mobile phone. ![](https://newsa.ntplstaging.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/remote-control-1-1024x682. webp) Another way to add easy luxury to your sauna use is to use [**remote control**](https://newsa.ntplstaging.com/how-to-design-a-sauna/#), which makes it possible to set your sauna with a mobile phone to be ready for bathing at exactly the right time. What could be better than to go into a hot sauna straight from a jog?