Is The Sauna The New Home Essential? Experts Weigh In On How To Make It Work – Even Without a Spa-Sized Space

The home sauna boom is heating up – literally. According to Technavio, the global residential sauna market is projected to grow by a steamy USD 151.3 million between 2025 and 2029. And yet, for many homeowners, the first question isn’t why to install a sauna – but where?

Gone are the days when personal saunas were a luxury reserved for sprawling estates or high-end wellness retreats. Today, savvy homeowners are integrating saunas into compact bathrooms, repurposed home gyms, and even outdoor spaces with smart landscaping—all without sacrificing design or comfort.

To understand this growing trend and how to bring it to life in your own home, we spoke with three leaders shaping the future of wellness design: Lisa Sternfeld, founder of the contemporary wellness studio WLLW; Jennifer Thayer, CEO of North America for Harvia, the parent company of ThermaSol and Almost Heaven Saunas; and Tim Rooney, Partner at the hospitality-focused design firm Jeffrey Beers International.

From layout logic and space-saving solutions to the aesthetic power of natural materials and the art of balancing wellness with style, these experts share their insights on how to seamlessly integrate a sauna into your home – indoors or out.

In conversation with Lisa Sternfeld, Founder of WLLW

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

The future of wellness design lies in integration – seamlessly weaving well-being into daily routines. We’re seeing a strong continuation of biophilic design, where natural materials, organic forms, and ample natural light come together to create deeply restorative environments.

Multi-sensory elements are becoming more accessible – think chromotherapy lighting, essential oil diffusion, and soundscapes tailored to relaxation or focus. Smart wellness tech is also transforming how we experience space, from circadian lighting to AI-driven air purification. But perhaps the most exciting shift is the emphasis on personalization – designing spaces that respond to individual rhythms, whether through modular sauna systems or flexible layouts that evolve with the user’s needs.

What are the biggest design challenges when transforming existing spaces, like bathrooms or home gyms, into wellness retreats? And any tips for homeowners working with limited space?

The main challenge is balancing function with a sense of calm. Bathrooms and gyms are typically high-traffic and utility-focused, but for true restoration, they need to encourage pause. Thoughtful zoning is key – even in small homes. Divide areas into active and passive wellness zones: soften a gym corner with warm lighting and natural textures, and carve out a spa nook with a soaking tub or steam shower.

Don’t overlook essentials like ventilation and access to safe, adequate electricity. Storage is also critical; integrated, discreet solutions help maintain a clean, serene aesthetic. For smaller homes, a mindset shift helps: wellness isn’t about square footage, it’s about experience. A cozy meditation alcove, a plush chair by a window, or upgrading a shower with steam and aromatherapy can bring a restorative feel into even the most compact home.

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 multifunctional 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.

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