The steep, virgin timber site presented complicated issues. All the excavation had to be done by hand with shovels. Rocks, dirt and tree roots were wheel barrowed to final destination to save the surrounding trees and native vegetation. The concrete truck had to put concrete into the bucket of a bobcat to bring up the back driveway. The plumbing, gas, and electrical lines had to be placed in a ditch from the main home to the Sauna which took lots more hand digging! The water lines were wrapped in heat tape to prevent freezing.

The doors on the south side of the Sauna are to the mechanical equipment room, housing the boiler for hot water and radiant heating which was installed in the slab. Radiant heating in the floors provides an even, quiet, warm feeling heat. The little building is thoroughly insulated and has white pine on the interior walls and rough cedar exterior siding to match the main home. The operable windows are Marvin triple hung which allows a large opening for summer ventilation.

The Sauna itself is a kit that was installed inside the building. There is a shower, a small sink and dressing area which can be closed off with a custom rolling door with barn door hardware. The warm burnt umber tile in the shower with dark grey accent is repeated with the accent in the floor slate tile in the sauna area. The relaxation area has cork flooring. The entry door on the north has a stoop using stained 1 x 4’s and 2 x 4’s bolted & glued vertically leaving voids where water, ice, & snow can fall through.  The owner has his sheep skin recliners with foot rests, TV, phone, books, and snack food in his Sauna Haus sitting area.

Besides being a place of retreat for our Swedish client, the rest of the family has parties there! Their 2 teenage daughters have entertained their friends with the sauna. Their yoga coaches have taught sessions in the sauna.