Saunas and Turkish Baths Health Care Systems Insights

The Rising Popularity of Saunas Around the World

The popularity of saunas is noticeably increasing beyond their native homeland, Finland. Today, individuals can easily enjoy the intense heat either in nature or through resorts specially designed by professional architects. This spread reflects a growing interest in mental and physical health through heat therapies.

The Continued Popularity of Traditional Health Care Rituals

At the same time, traditional Turkish baths remain a revered weekly ritual, stretching from Morocco to Turkey. They maintain their popularity in communities that value heritage and ancient health rituals. Additionally, thermal bathing is gaining popularity, from Iceland to Australia, indicating the diversity of cultures relying on heat to boost health and wellbeing.

Integrating Health Care Traditions at Home

With technological advancements, it is now possible to integrate these various health traditions within the comfort of home. Advanced systems have been developed that combine sauna, Turkish bath, and plunge pools into a single unit. These solutions make it easier for people to adopt a comprehensive health routine. They can do this without needing to visit external places or rely on natural sources like lakes.

EFFE Company: A History of Innovation in Healthcare

Founded in 1987, EFFE is renowned for its innovative and flexible designs that facilitate installation in various locations. Its systems can be installed in both public and private sites, such as healthcare centers in hotels or tiny house resorts. This gives it a wide range of versatile applications.

Design Options to Meet Privacy Needs

One of the distinguishing features of the new system is the option to choose the front glass between transparent and opaque. This allows different levels of privacy according to the user’s preference, whether in public or private spaces.

Design Inspired by Sauna and Turkish Bath Heritage

The “Petra HS” system was unveiled during Milan Design Week 2025. It is inspired by the centuries-old traditions of saunas and Turkish baths. In this context, designer Marco Williams Fagioli explains his experience: “I spent a long time researching the history of saunas and Turkish baths, which are deeply rooted traditions across geographically distant cultures.”

Attention to Symbolic Details to Enhance Authenticity

Fagioli adds, “I found the symbols associated with these ancient health and wellness practices very fascinating, such as the tradition of lowering the door height, where the entrant must bow as a sign of respect upon entering. I was keen to incorporate these aspects into the design. This was to enhance the user experience and make it more authentic and engaging.”

Eco-Friendly Materials in the “Petra HS” Design

The “Petra HS” system represents a modern model that combines technology and sustainability. It is constructed using eco-friendly and recyclable materials, reflecting a growing commitment to sustainable practices in the healthcare design sector.

Swiss Pine Wood: The Ideal Choice for the Sauna

The sauna in this system is clad with Swiss pine wood, a sturdy mountain wood known for its ability to withstand low temperatures. Besides its durability, this type of wood features comforting and antibacterial properties. It is perfectly suitable for healthy environments.

A Stimulating Sensory Experience

The distinctive scent of pine wood, its warm colours, and natural texture add multiple dimensions to the user experience. These elements contribute to a “multi-sensory stimulating experience” that enhances feelings of comfort and refreshment.

Innovative Materials in the Turkish Bath Cabin Design

The Turkish bath cabin features an innovative and eco-friendly material that is recyclable and derived from pure minerals. This material was selected for its high resistance to moisture, which prevents bacterial growth and enhances hygiene and health within the bath. It is further enriched with digital textures that give it a natural appearance and organic feel. This enriches the user experience.

Luxurious and Diverse Design Options

In addition to the base material, other cladding options include “Travertine Vena Aurum” porcelain tiles from KronosCeramiche. These add a luxurious and natural touch to the design, reflecting a balance between beauty and durability.

Advanced Technology for Steam Control and Comfort

The Turkish bath operates with an intelligent steam generator called “Effe Nuvola,” installed under the seat. It provides an automatic steam and temperature control system, along with a door sensor and touch control panel. The system can also be integrated with a sensory shower that includes chromotherapy and an aroma diffuser. This adds a new dimension to the relaxation experience.

The Importance of the Plunge Pool for Physical and Mental Renewal

After completing a sauna or Turkish bath session, it is recommended to immerse in the cold-water plunge pool. This is a practice known to stimulate blood circulation and strengthen tissues. The step enhances a deep sense of renewal on both physical and mental levels.

The plunge pool is designed from stainless steel and integrated into a special wooden structure made from Aspen wood. It is characterized by clean and harmonious lines that add a balanced aesthetic character to the space.

Sei sauna by Agape, Cesare Roversi, Effe

Recent Releases Reflecting Diversity in Sauna Designs

Effe continues to expand its product range by launching new and diverse releases. Among these is the “Cabanon” collection of outdoor saunas. These are specially designed by Rodolfo Dordoni and Michele Angelini, reflecting a unique architectural artistic approach that combines beauty and functionality.

Innovative Collaboration to Develop Small Wooden Structures

Additionally, the company developed a small wooden structure known as “Sei,” resulting from a collaboration with Agape and Cesare Roversi. This project demonstrates the company’s commitment to innovation. It also shows its dedication to offering integrated solutions that suit different spaces and meet diverse user needs.

✦ ArchUp Editorial Insight

Despite significant advances in integrating sauna and Turkish bath technologies into sophisticated systems, the challenge remains to preserve their authenticity. While technology may enhance comfort and efficiency, it can diminish the cultural depth and spiritual experience of these practices. Additionally, the high cost may limit their widespread adoption.