This project showcases how Finnmark frequently collaborate with contractors, designers, and architects to foster strong client relationships and deliver the best possible result. As the authentic sauna specialists on this particular bespoke installation, which included a sauna and steam room, they played a central and educational role.

The timber choice: Thermo aspen

The chosen wood for this project is thermally modified aspen, which is darker in colour and takes on a rich brown appearance along with a unique toasted scent when compared to its original form. Impressively, it has a lifespan of up to 30 years, making it a particularly good match for commercial saunas. Timber is a central component of any sauna construction, and it is one that will have a substantial impact on the sauna’s cost, ambience, appearance, longevity, and durability. The timbers supplied and used by Finnmark have been selected exclusively from grade-A stocks and milled to an extremely fine standard.

Insulation

Sauna insulation is crucial for helping the room heat up efficiently. It also protects the surrounding building materials from the sauna's heat. Vapour sealing serves as the barrier that prevents warm, moist air from escaping the sauna and protects the surrounding wood from risks like mildew, mold and rot. For this installation, they used foil backed Kingspan Sauna Satu polyisocyanurate (PIR) insulation boards, which work particularly well as both an insulator and vapour seal.

Ventilation & Lighting

Sauna ventilation is a key design principle of traditional Finnish sauna and one of the most important aspects of sauna construction. A constant source of oxygen-rich fresh air in the sauna ensures proper circulation of hot air and removes it before it becomes stagnant. This also ensures that any volatile or organic compounds entering the sauna air are dispelled swiftly. Without ventilation, the sauna air becomes stale, claggy, and potentially unhygienic. The sauna itself can quickly deteriorate, becoming rotten and mouldy if excess humidity is unable to escape. Unfortunately for many Brits, the only experience of ‘sauna’ is when they head to a gym or a health club - and they are more than often poor appropriations of the real deal.

The LED strip lighting from Finnish manufacturer SAAS, mounted with precision along the backrest and the bench lips, cast a warm, ambient glow that accentuates the natural wood grain while creating a spa-like atmosphere.

The heater choice: A commercial grade electric sauna heater from Tulikivi

Tuisku XL electric heater The by Tulikivi combines a stunning aesthetic with modern technology, guaranteeing an authentic sauna experience. The heater is covered with ribbed Finnish soapstone that helps retain heat and provides a warm, humid and soft steam.

Speak to the installations team about how they can help you achieve your dream sauna.