Simple Sauna Customization Ideas That Actually Change The Feel

A lot of the best personalization is low hanging fruit. It gives you a more custom look and feel without it needing to be thousands of dollars of difference in materials or finishes.

Start with contrast: darker accent walls

One of the simplest ways to change the vibe inside the hot room is adding a darker accent wall. Sauna wax makes that possible without turning the whole build into a premium material upgrade. Pick one wall you want to stand out, keep the rest of the interior clean and consistent, and let the contrast do the work.

The easiest upgrade is lighting accents

If you want the quickest “custom” feel, lighting accents are the move. Lighting changes the entire mood of the sauna without changing the structure. It’s one of those upgrades that looks intentional, even when everything else stays standard.

Salt features: full wall or smaller panels

We’ve done a sauna with a salt wall and backlighting behind it, and it gives you a glowing effect. If you don’t want to commit to a full salt wall, you can still get a similar look by using salt bricks as smaller art or panel features. Think of it like an accent piece you build into the wall, with lighting behind it to make it pop.

A quick note for mobile saunas

If you’re building mobile, anything heavy or decorative needs to be solidly attached. We’ve seen a salt wall fall in a mobile sauna over time. The idea still works, it just needs to be built the right way for movement and vibration.

The point of all of this

You don’t need to reinvent the entire sauna to make it feel personal. A few intentional upgrades, contrast, lighting, and one standout feature, can make a standard build feel custom without blowing up the scope.

Outdoor saunas FAQs

Think about how you want to use the sauna, how much room you have, and how many people you want to fit. Compact models are great for small spaces, while larger models are better for entertaining guests or family use.
If you need more information on this topic, please visit “Ideal size for your custom outdoor sauna in minnesota.“.

Yes, outdoor saunas are designed to withstand the harsh Minnesota winters and can be used year-round. They provide a warm retreat in winter and a relaxing cool-down area during summer.

If you need more information on this topic, please visit “How to benefit from your outdoor sauna in every season.

While some sauna kits are designed for DIY installation, it is often recommended to use professional services to ensure it is installed safely and complies with local building codes, especially in Minnesota where weather conditions can affect installation.

If you need more information on this topic, please visit “Custom outdoor sauna kits.“.

Yes, a building permit is typically required for outdoor sauna installations in Minneapolis. Check with the local building department for specific requirements, as regulations can vary based on the size and location of the sauna.

If you need more information on this topic, please visit “Permit to install an outdoor sauna in minneapolis.

Regular maintenance includes cleaning the interior, checking and cleaning the heater, and ensuring proper ventilation. It’s also important to inspect and treat the wood exterior to protect against the elements.

If you need more information on this topic, please visit “How to take care of your outdoor custom sauna maintenance tips.

The position of your sauna should strike a balance between practicality, privacy, and good looks. By carefully designing and considering all of these features, you will increase the enjoyment and utility of your backyard sauna, transforming it into a true haven of relaxation and well-being.

If you need more information on this topic, please visit “How to choose the ideal spot for your backyard sauna.

The addition of a home sauna represents a strategic investment in both personal well-being and property value. By creating a sanctuary of relaxation and rejuvenation, homeowners can enhance the appeal, marketability, and overall worth of their properties. 

If you need more information on this topic, please visit “In home saunas.”

If you are the type that likes to participate and be connected to the process, then wood fire is for you. If you’re looking to maximize the relaxation and convenience of a sauna, electric might be a good option. 

If you need more information on this topic, please visit “Electric or wood burning stove what is better for a sauna.”

A good home sauna will cost you anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000 and custom saunas can reach upwards of $50,000.

If you need more information on this topic, please visit “How much does an home sauna cost a complete guide.”

Mark Funke
Mark Funke
The quality of the craftsmanship is 10/10. My clients have been loving the look of the unit and of course the good heat.
John Pederson
John Pederson
I've worked with Jayson (the owner) on about a half dozen builds now, he has always been extremely responsive, professional as well as fair and reasonable. I could not recommend BW more strongly.
buhrsmith
buhrsmith
The guys at BW are seasoned builders that know how to layout beautiful sauna spaces - for me, on a trailer. I most enjoyed how dedicated to the craft of building they are and they patience to guide me through a final build spec.