In Minnesota, where long winters are a way of life, homeowners are always looking for ways to bring more warmth, comfort, and wellness into their daily routines. One feature that’s quickly becoming a staple in custom homes is the sauna. What was once viewed as a luxury is now considered an essential part of modern, wellness-focused living.
Deeply embedded in Finnish tradition, saunas have long been celebrated for their health and cultural resonance—particularly in Minnesota, a state rich in Scandinavian heritage. For local homeowners, installing a sauna is much more than an upgrade—it’s a meaningful nod to tradition.
The sauna tradition originates from Finland, but it resonates deeply here in Minnesota thanks to the state’s strong Scandinavian heritage. For many, including a sauna in their home is more than a design decision — it’s a cultural connection. Adding one to a custom home honors tradition while embracing a lifestyle rooted in health, community, and relaxation.
In today’s fast-paced world, homeowners are prioritizing health and self-care more than ever. A sauna offers a dedicated place to recharge, reduce stress, and improve overall wellness without leaving home. Studies have shown that sauna health benefits include the following:
• Boost circulation and cardiovascular health
• Ease sore muscles and joint pain
• Support immune function
• Promote deeper, more restful sleep
• Provide stress relief through relaxation and detoxification
For homeowners building their dream residence, incorporating a sauna is about creating a private retreat — a space that supports both body and mind.
When designing a custom home, every detail should reflect your lifestyle — and for many Minnesotans, that now includes a sauna. Unlike seasonal features such as pools, a sauna can be enjoyed year-round, making it a versatile addition to daily life.
Beyond its practicality, a sauna serves as both a personal wellness tool and a calming escape from everyday stress, aligning perfectly with the modern focus on health and well-being. And perhaps most importantly, incorporating a sauna pays homage to Minnesota’s Scandinavian heritage, making it a feature that resonates deeply with the state’s culture and identity.
At Sustainable 9, we’ve seen a growing number of clients prioritizing wellness-focused spaces in their homes. While a sauna is often considered a luxury custom amenity, it’s increasingly viewed as an essential investment in health, comfort, and long-term quality of life.
The surge in demand for saunas reflects a larger movement in custom home design: creating spaces that go beyond function to actively improve quality of life. Just as open kitchens and outdoor living spaces became staples of modern homes, saunas are now taking their place as a signature feature in Minnesota residences.
At Sustainable 9, we’ve seen a major uptick in clients requesting wellness-focused features in their homes. While a sauna was once considered a luxury amenity, it’s now a practical, long-term investment in health, comfort, and quality of life.
When designing a custom home, every feature should reflect your lifestyle — and for more and more Minnesotans, that now includes a sauna. Saunas are unique in that they provide year-round enjoyment, unlike pools or patios that are limited to warmer seasons.
They double as both a health investment and a calming escape from daily stress, supporting today’s wellness-focused living. Beyond the personal benefits, homes with saunas stand out in the real estate market, adding long-term resale value. Just as importantly, saunas connect to Minnesota’s Scandinavian roots, making them a culturally significant and highly desirable feature in modern custom homes.
