Not sure. Maybe it’s an American thing? All over the country, reasonable sized homes (1,500 square feet or so) are knocked down in favor of sheetrock palaces, that cube out a lot and bump against side yard setbacks. And cars? Well, a few years ago, we had a run of smaller more fuel efficient cars. But today, if you’re not in a tall rider SUV it feels like you’re being dwarfed on the road. Food? A gourmet burger better be huge, and ooze with bacon and toppings.
bigger isn’t better
Tiny houses, Toyota Priuses, and smaller plate portions are with us. They get the press they deserve, but not because of their paradigm changing popularity but because we need rational reminders that bigger isn’t better.
With our saunas, let’s remind ourselves to not fall into the bigger is better trap.
a few reasons why
When we build our saunas, it is important to be conscious of the following:
Heat up times: every cubic inch needs to heat up to “serving temp” before our saunas are ready to go. The bigger the sauna, the more time it’ll take to get ready, and the more energy/fuel is required to keep the sauna at optimal temp.
How many sauna bathers: This trips up people all the time. Having a sauna party with 10 people? You don’t need a hot room that holds 10 people. The best saunas are saunas where people are encouraged to cool down. Extensive, full cool downs make for a better sauna experience, and a better vibe with different folks periodically rotating in and out of the hot room. Conversation flows like a good party, and thoughts flow like good poetry.
Human scale:Â Unless building a private wellness resort, our saunas are minimalist structures of functionality. No frills needed. Minimal bric-a-brac from style magazines and shopping malls.
This is one of the many reasons why we like our saunas. Well sized for thermal goodness.
Russ’s 8×12 sauna ready for action on a late summer day.