What should homeowners know when adding a sauna or wellness facility during a renovation?

Start with circulation – both air and movement. Ventilation is non-negotiable for comfort, material integrity, and air quality. Choose breathable materials like untreated wood or natural stone to help regulate humidity and temperature. Saunas should ideally be located near a shower or plunge pool to allow for contrast therapy. And where possible, harness natural light – it expands even the smallest footprint. Infrared saunas are a great solution for compact homes, offering a slimmer profile and lower energy use. Opt for multi-functional features, like built-in chromotherapy, to maximize usability without increasing bulk. Key design tips include: Optimal placement (avoid areas with direct water exposure); ventilation & insulation (essential for comfort and long-term performance); electrical safety (always consult a licensed professional); right materials (moisture-resistant woods like western red cedar, aspen, or Nordic spruce are ideal).

What are the most common mistakes when designing outdoor wellness spaces?

A major misstep is not accounting for the elements. Poor placement can lead to harsh sun, wind exposure, or a lack of privacy. Outdoor retreats should work with the landscape, not against it. Greenery can create natural privacy screens, and materials that weather beautifully – like stone or thermally treated wood – enhance both durability and aesthetic. People also often overlook sensory balance. Outdoor wellness spaces should engage all the senses: natural textures underfoot, the soothing sound of water, and lighting that shifts with the time of day. It’s these details that elevate a backyard sauna or meditation deck into a truly immersive experience.

Where do you see the sauna and wellness industry heading next?

It’s all about personalization and accessibility. Modular, energy-efficient designs are making saunas viable for more homes, and there’s increasing demand for complementary therapies—cold plunges, aromatherapy, guided breathwork – that create a holistic experience. I’m also seeing renewed interest in social saunas as spaces for connection. As wellness becomes part of daily life rather than a luxury escape, these rituals are being reimagined in more inclusive, community-oriented ways.

In conversation with Jennifer Thayer, CEO of North America for Harvia

What are the most exciting advancements in materials and technology enhancing the sauna and wellness experience?

We’re seeing incredible innovation in both materials and tech that are elevating the sauna experience. Sustainable and regenerative wood options – like thermally modified wood, bamboo, and reclaimed wood – are becoming more popular for their durability and eco-friendliness. Conductive carbon fiber panels now provide more even heat distribution, ensuring consistent comfort throughout a session.

Technology integration is also taking things to the next level. App-connected saunas let users schedule sessions remotely – even on the drive home from work – while wearable sauna tech can sync with your existing devices for a more personalized experience. Chromotherapy lighting is another standout, supporting relaxation, energy, and circulation through color. Finally, off-grid sauna options powered by solar energy are gaining traction, offering a sustainable solution for remote or eco-conscious settings.

From a global perspective, how do sauna and wellness design preferences differ across North America, Europe, and Asia?

North America is quickly emerging as a major player in the wellness space, with the advantage of adopting the latest technologies. The focus is often on flexibility and integration—people want both indoor and outdoor experiences that seamlessly fit into their living spaces.

In contrast, Europe has a deep-rooted sauna culture, especially in countries like Finland and Scandinavia, where traditional wood-burning saunas still reign. Public saunas are common, and the experience is seen as a shared ritual. In fact, in some areas, there are more saunas per capita than cars. Rituals like Aufguss are especially popular in Germany and Austria, making sauna sessions immersive events led by skilled sauna masters.

Asia brings its own rich wellness traditions to the table, blending ancient practices like Korean heat therapy, Japanese Zen relaxation, and Chinese medicine into the sauna experience. Sessions tend to happen in public saunas, often at higher heat levels than in other regions. There’s also a strong design focus, with an emphasis on luxurious resort-style saunas and minimalist Japanese aesthetics.

Luxury wellness spaces are becoming increasingly experiential – what trends are shaping the design of high-end home spas and resort-style retreats?

The growing emphasis on health, wellness, and the need to unwind from fast-paced lifestyles is fuelling interest in this space. Today’s wellness features are no longer just bulky boxes you have to fit somewhere – they’re beautifully integrated into the home, combining aesthetics with real health benefits. There’s truly something for every style and budget, making luxury wellness more accessible than ever.

Sustainability is a key concern – what are the most effective eco-friendly solutions in the design of wellness spaces?

Sustainable design starts with materials – recycled and eco-conscious options are top of mind when creating wellness spaces. We’re also seeing rising interest in off-grid wellness rituals, which is making solar-powered saunas increasingly popular. At Harvia, we’re deeply committed to long-term sustainability – from zero-waste facilities to meeting ambitious environmental goals sooner rather than later.

What psychological and emotional factors should be considered when designing an ideal wellness environment?

First and foremost, design a space that makes you feel good. There are endless options out there and plenty of experts to guide you, but ultimately, it should reflect what brings you peace and joy. Personally, I view time in the sauna or steam shower as a way to disconnect from the world – put the phone away, step off social media, and be present with friends or family. It’s a powerful way to reconnect, recharge, and enjoy meaningful moments that come with genuine health benefits for all ages. Your wellness space should be your personal retreat – calming, comfortable, and uniquely yours.

In conversation with Tim Rooney, Partner at Jeffrey Beers International

The demand for personal wellness spaces is rising—what are the most innovative trends in well-being design today?

Personal wellness spaces have evolved well beyond the traditional sauna or massage room. Today, the focus is on full-body, immersive experiences that support holistic well-being. One of the most exciting trends is the resurgence of thermal treatments—ancient practices that alternate between hot and cold temperatures to revitalize the body. This contrast therapy has reemerged as a powerful tool for both relaxation and rejuvenation.

From Jacuzzi baths and cold plunge pools to dipping pools and saunas, wellness spaces now center around sensory rituals. Experiential showers that modulate temperature and stimulate the senses are becoming standout features, transforming bathrooms into personalized retreats that nurture body, mind, and spirit.