"The best sauna is the one that gets used." – Every honest sauna builder, ever.

Here’s the thing most people miss when planning a luxury sauna: it’s not just about the wood, the heater, or even the size. It’s about you. Your space. Your habits. Your vision.

At Inland Sauna, we’ve designed and built dozens of custom saunas across Western Canada—from tight indoor units tucked into bathrooms, to stunning outdoor retreats with views of the Rockies. Along the way, we’ve learned that the perfect sauna always rests on the same five pillars.

If you’re thinking of building your own, start here.

1. Purpose: Know Why You’re Building

Before picking cedar or heater models, ask yourself one simple question:

Why do you want a sauna?

• Is it recovery after long runs or lifting sessions?
• Is it for family relaxation and connection?
• Do you crave steam and silence after a long day?

The answer will shape every design choice. Athletes might want quick heat-up times and space for stretches. A family might prioritize bench space and kid-friendly access. A minimalist might want clean lines and low maintenance.

Don’t skip this step. It’s the foundation for everything else.

2. Placement: Indoor or Outdoor?

This one’s huge. Where you put your sauna defines how it feels and functions.

Indoor sauna:

• Ideal if you’re tight on yard space or want quick access from your bathroom or gym.
• Needs proper ventilation and moisture control—don’t skimp on insulation.
• Offers more privacy, especially in colder months.

Outdoor sauna:

• A true experience—snow falling outside while you sweat it out inside.
• Can include changerooms, decks, or plunge tubs.
• Needs durable materials, weatherproofing, and a power plan for rural builds.

Pro tip: If your outdoor sauna is more than 10 feet from your house, plan your pathway. You'll thank yourself during the first snowfall.

3. Materials: Choose Wood Like a Pro

Not all sauna wood is created equal. And no—Home Depot isn’t going to cut it.

The best custom saunas are built with thermally modified wood like Thermory aspen or alder. Why? Because it resists warping, handles heat, and looks beautiful for years. You want something that can handle 110°C+ (that’s 230°F) and keep its shape.

For benches, go with soft, non-resinous wood that won’t burn or splinter. We usually recommend:

• Aspen (smooth and clean)
• Cedar (classic and aromatic)
• Alder or thermally-treated ash (modern and durable)

Flooring, walls, ceiling—every layer matters. A good sauna builder will explain why.

4. Heat: It’s Not Just Hot Air

The heater is your sauna’s engine. And just like engines, there are different types:

• Wood-burning heaters: Romantic, traditional, and ideal for off-grid. Requires chimney planning and access to firewood.
• Electric heaters: Clean, efficient, and programmable. Great for homes and rentals.
• Infrared panels: Not technically a sauna (no steam or high heat), but still popular for those who like low-temp sweat sessions.

But here's the truth: it’s not just about the heater.

It’s about the löyly—the wave of steam you create when you pour water over stones. That’s what makes a sauna a sauna, and not just a hot box.

To get that right, your builder needs to understand airflow, ventilation, and how to position your heater properly.

5. Design: Form and Function

The best luxury saunas feel effortless.

That means benches that are easy to wipe, steps that don’t trip you up, and lighting that sets the mood—not blinds you. We recommend:

• Two bench levels (upper for deep heat, lower for cool-down)
• Hidden lighting for ambiance
• Easy-access switches or smart controls
• Thoughtful door placement—ideally one that doesn't open straight into the hottest part

This is where your vision comes alive. Whether you're going for a minimalist look with matte black accents or a rustic cabin feel with log beams—we can design around your style.

But good design isn’t just pretty. It works hard in the background so you can unplug.

Build Your Pillars, Then Build Your Sauna

Your perfect sauna isn’t something you buy—it’s something you build, one decision at a time.

If you're ready to start, we'll help you turn ideas into a space that serves your body and your lifestyle. Whether you're dreaming of a backyard retreat, a gym upgrade, or something no one’s seen before, our job is to make it work—and make it yours.

Because the best sauna isn’t the biggest or the fanciest. It’s the one you keep coming back to.

Want to get started? Reply to this email and let’s talk heat!