Why Home Saunas Are Becoming Popular in Modern Remodels

Cold plunges. Spa-inspired bathrooms. Recovery rooms. Wellness spaces built directly into the home.

Modern remodeling trends are shifting beyond appearance alone. More homeowners are designing spaces around comfort, stress relief, recovery, and daily routines that support long-term well-being. 

That shift is one of the main reasons more homeowners are adding saunas to modern remodeling projects. In fact, the U.S. sauna market is now projected to reach $311.4 million by 2033, representing a 58% total growth over the decade.

From luxury primary bathrooms to backyard retreats and converted spare rooms, the modern home sauna is no longer reserved for high-end resorts or health clubs. Homeowners are finding new ways to incorporate sauna spaces into everyday living while creating a more relaxing, functional environment at home.

Why More Homeowners Want a Sauna at Home

People are spending more time at home than ever before, and many homeowners want their homes to feel restorative rather than purely functional.

That demand has helped drive interest in:

• Spa-style bathroom remodels
• Dedicated wellness spaces
• Recovery-focused home gyms
• Luxury outdoor living areas
• Personal relaxation spaces

For many families, the benefits of a sauna at home go beyond mere luxury. A sauna can become part of a daily wellness routine that supports relaxation, recovery, and stress management without leaving the house.

According to a poll by the North American Sauna Society, about 83% of respondents prefer to use their sauna for relaxation. Many homeowners also enjoy the convenience of private sauna use compared to visiting a gym or public wellness center.

The Wellness Appeal Behind Modern Sauna Design

Research surrounding sauna bathing has expanded significantly in recent years, especially in areas tied to circulation, recovery, and overall wellness. While a sauna is not a replacement for medical care, many homeowners now incorporate regular sauna use into broader wellness routines focused on relaxation and recovery.

For example, a 2024 study published in Scandinavian Cardiovascular Journal found that frequent sauna bathing may help reduce the mortality risk associated with elevated systolic blood pressure in some individuals. Researchers noted a potential link between regular sauna habits and improved cardiovascular outcomes.

Additional 2023 research shows clear evidence connecting regular sauna use with improved vascular function and overall cardiovascular health, particularly when paired with exercise and healthy lifestyle habits.

Other Health Benefits of a Home Sauna

Generally, some commonly discussed health and wellness benefits associated with sauna routines include:

• Stress reduction
• Temporary muscle relaxation
• Improved circulation (blood flow) 
• Reduction of high blood pressure 
• Immune system support
• Support for post-workout muscle recovery
• Relaxation after physical activity
• Temporary pain relief for sore muscles and joints

For many homeowners, though, the biggest appeal of using a sauna is much simpler than the science itself. The overall experience gives people a place to slow down, disconnect from screens, and alleviate stress after busy days, all without leaving home.

Traditional Sauna vs. Steam Sauna vs. Infrared Sauna

Modern remodels now include several different sauna bathing styles depending on the homeowner’s goals, available space, and preferred experience.

Traditional Sauna

A traditional sauna typically uses heated rocks and either electric heating systems or a wood-burning stove to create intense dry heat.

Traditional sauna environments are known for:

• Higher temperatures
• Lower humidity
• Classic wood interiors
• A more authentic Scandinavian-style sauna experience

Some homeowners prefer the stronger heat levels for sweat and the traditional feel of a regular sauna.

Steam Sauna

A steam sauna or home steam sauna creates humid, wet heat instead of dry heat.

Steam sauna spaces are often popular in luxury bathroom remodels because they:

• Create a spa-like atmosphere
• Add moisture to the air
• Pair well with modern shower designs
• Feels more like gentle heat to some users

This type of sauna bathing is often associated with relaxation and respiratory comfort.

Many homeowners are looking for a softer, humidity-rich environment compared to the hotter conditions inside a traditional sauna.

Infrared Sauna

The modern infrared sauna has become one of the fastest-growing options in residential remodeling.

Instead of heating the air to extremely high temperatures, an infrared sauna uses infrared wavelength technology to warm the body more directly.

Many homeowners are drawn to:

• Lower operating temperatures
• Smaller space requirements
• Faster warm-up times
• Energy efficiency
• Easier installation options

An infrared sauna may fit more easily into smaller remodels, including converted closets, home gyms, or a spare room.

Why Saunas Fit So Well Into Modern Remodels

Saunas align naturally with several current remodeling trends homeowners already want.

Spa-Inspired Bathrooms

Luxury bathrooms increasingly include:

• Steam features
• Warm natural materials
• Minimalist lighting
• Recovery-focused amenities
• Relaxation zones

A sauna can complement these designs while adding long-term functionality to the space.

Wellness Rooms & Home Gyms

More homeowners are turning unused areas into dedicated wellness spaces.

Popular home-built sauna ideas now include:

• Sauna + cold plunge combinations
• Recovery rooms attached to gyms
• Infrared sauna corners in spare rooms
• Meditation and stretching spaces
• Indoor-outdoor wellness transitions

The rise of at-home fitness has also increased interest in recovery-focused sauna usage after workouts.

Outdoor Living Upgrades

Modern outdoor saunas are becoming increasingly popular in backyard remodels.

These spaces can create:

• Private relaxation areas
• Resort-style outdoor environments
• Retreat-style backyard designs
• Additional entertainment features

Some homeowners choose standalone sauna kits for outdoor installation, while others incorporate custom structures into larger landscape remodels.

Bottom Line: Are Home Saunas Worth It for the Mental and Physical Benefits?

The answer depends largely on your lifestyle, available space, and how frequently the sauna will actually be used.

For homeowners who value:

• Daily relaxation
• Recovery after exercise
• Spa-inspired living
• Wellness-focused routines
• Long-term home enjoyment

…the benefits of having a sauna at home may justify the investment. Additionally, a sauna may also add a unique luxury element that helps differentiate a remodeled home from others on the market.

Things to Consider Before You Install a Home Steam Sauna

Before planning sauna installation, homeowners should think through several factors.

Available Space

Saunas can be installed in:

• Bathrooms
• Basements
• Home gyms
• Garages
• Outdoor structures
• Spare rooms

Smaller infrared models may require less square footage than larger steam or traditional systems.

Ventilation & Moisture Control

Proper airflow and moisture management matter, especially for a home steam sauna. Professional remodeling contractors can help design spaces that protect surrounding materials from excess humidity.

Electrical Requirements

Some sauna systems require upgraded electrical service depending on:

• Heater size
• Lighting systems
• Steam generation equipment
• Control systems

Safety & Health Considerations

A big caveat: Sauna use is not appropriate for everyone. People with certain medical conditions or health issues, those with existing low blood pressure, or those with cardiovascular concerns should speak with a healthcare provider before beginning regular sauna use.

Hydration is also an important topic. Sauna users should avoid excessive heat exposure and avoid drinking alcohol before or during a sauna session.

The Modern Sauna Is About More Than Luxury

Today’s sauna remodels are less about showing off and more about creating spaces people genuinely use.

The growing popularity of home sauna remodeling reflects a larger shift toward intentional living, wellness-centered design, and homes that support both physical and mental recovery.

Whether homeowners prefer the intense dry heat of a traditional sauna, the humidity-rich atmosphere of a steam sauna, or the convenience of an infrared light sauna, these spaces are increasingly becoming part of modern home design conversations.

As remodeling trends continue evolving, saunas are moving from niche luxury features to practical wellness upgrades that many homeowners now see as part of everyday living and mental health.

Ready to Add a Sauna to Your Home Remodel?

At Lifespan Bath Remodel, we help homeowners create personalized spaces designed around comfort, function, and long-term enjoyment. Whether you are exploring spa-inspired bathroom upgrades or custom wellness spaces in the Salt Lake City area,  our team is excited to help bring your vision to life. Contact us today to learn more about our sauna installation services, as well as our other bathroom remodeling options.