'The Finnish Sauna' © Laura Vuoma
When The Finnish Sauna made its debut at the London Festival of Architecture in 2022, it was far more than just a temporary installation—it was a celebration of a centuries-old Finnish tradition brought to life in a modern, urban setting. Created by Sami Rintala in collaboration with architecture students from the School of Architecture + Cities at the University of Westminster, under the guidance of tutors Dr. David Scott and François Girardin, and supported by the Finnish Institute in the UK and Ireland, the sauna exemplified the power of collective creativity. Set against the serene backdrop of Victoria Embankment Gardens, this unique project invited visitors to immerse themselves in the soothing ritual of Finnish sauna culture in the heart of London.
The involvement of the students in this project was transformative, providing them with hands-on experience in fabrication and collaborative design. This collaboration showcased the value of integrating education with real-world projects, enhancing their skills while contributing to an extraordinary architectural achievement. As noted by the University of Westminster, this opportunity underscored the significance of partnerships in pushing the boundaries of architectural education.
This installation not only highlighted the enduring relevance of traditional design but also sparked conversations around the holistic wellness benefits of such spaces. What followed has been an inspiring journey, as the sauna continued to surprise and delight audiences across the UK, transcending its origins at LFA.
A Journey Across the UK
After its time at LFA, the sauna was carefully rehomed at Beaconsfield Gallery in London, where it continued to serve as a public space for relaxation and reflection. From there, the journey took on a life of its own, with the sauna finding new homes and new audiences across the UK. In October 2022, it made its way to Lake Windermere as part of the Lakes International Comic Arts Festival, where attendees took part in uniquely themed sauna sessions with comic artists. The juxtaposition of the calmness of the sauna with the vibrant energy of the festival created an unexpected but beautiful blend of tradition and creativity.
'The Finnish Sauna' © Laura Vuoma
In 2023, the sauna opened its doors in Dover, where it was embraced by the local community through an initiative led by Dover Council. Here, it became a space for connection, offering a chance for visitors to unwind and reflect on the health benefits of this ancient practice.
A Permanent Home and Legacy
The Finnish Sauna's most recent chapter took a more permanent turn when it was donated to the Isle of Wight in late 2023, thanks to the Finnish Institute in the UK and Ireland. Rob da Bank, the festival founder, was instrumental in ensuring the sauna remained accessible to the public, setting it up as an enduring part of the local landscape. Its brief stint at King's Cross earlier in 2024 was yet another testament to its versatility, as it continued to find relevance and resonance in new contexts.
'The Finnish Sauna' © Laura Vuoma
Reflecting on the sauna's ongoing journey, Jaakko Nousiainen, Director of the Finnish Institute in the UK and Ireland, shared, “It was wonderful to see a contemporary take on ancient Finnish sauna building tradition shape up in central London, and later also across the UK. For us, it was also important to build wider awareness of the holistic wellbeing aspect of Finnish sauna culture.”
More Than Just Architecture
Rosa Rogina, Director of the London Festival of Architecture, also highlighted the broader impact of the sauna's journey. "The Finnish Sauna exemplifies the lasting power of design in creating connections, not only through its architectural form but also through the experience it offers. From a temporary installation at LFA to becoming a cherished community asset, it demonstrates how architecture can continue to foster wellbeing, creativity, and cultural exchange long after the event itself."
Beyond its architectural form, The Finnish Sauna has evolved into a space for reflection and connection, offering an opportunity to experience the profound sense of calm that is at the heart of the Finnish sauna tradition. In a world where time for relaxation and self-care is increasingly precious, the sauna serves as a reminder of the importance of slowing down and taking time for one's well-being. This project has also raised awareness of the broader cultural significance of the sauna, which is deeply rooted in Finnish society, offering a space for socializing, healing, and contemplation.
'The Finnish Sauna' © Laura Vuoma
From London to the Isle of Wight, The Finnish Sauna’s afterlife is a powerful reminder of how architecture can transcend its original context. What began as a striking installation for LFA has become a cherished community asset, demonstrating the lasting impact of design in connecting people with both culture and wellbeing.
'The Finnish Sauna' © Laura Vuoma
The Finnish Sauna also underscores the London Festival of Architecture’s unique ability to bring interesting ideas and collaborators together. By connecting the Finnish Institute with the University of Westminster and securing a prime location in Victoria Embankment Gardens through Westminster City Council, the Festival not only brought this vision to life but also created lasting connections that continue to inspire.
This remarkable journey exemplifies the enduring relevance of thoughtful, experiential architecture—showing that even temporary projects can leave a lasting legacy, nurturing both the body and the spirit in ways that extend well beyond their original scope. The Finnish Sauna is a testament to how architecture, when infused with purpose, can grow, evolve, and continue to inspire, long after the final curtain falls.
