More North American Backyards Have Outdoor Saunas, Harvia Says
By Arlene Scott
Senior Wellness Correspondent & Hospitality Consultant
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Harvia, whose Almost Heaven brand sells outdoor barrel saunas, says North American backyards increasingly feature outdoor saunas alongside the barbecue and the hot tub.
Backyards across North America increasingly feature outdoor saunas, according to Harvia, the Finnish sauna maker whose Almost Heaven brand sells ready-to-use outdoor barrel saunas in the US. The category runs from barrel saunas to cabin saunas and custom outdoor builds.
Harvia credits the backyard
Harvia ties the trend to how homeowners use their yards. In its 2023 annual report, the company said a “backyard paradise” for relaxation with family and friends “has become more popular throughout North America,” and that “in addition to the traditional barbecue and a hot tub or pool, backyards increasingly also feature outdoor saunas.”
Barrel saunas are the entry point to the outdoor category for many buyers. Their relatively accessible price point compared with cabin saunas, ease of installation, and distinctive aesthetic have made them a gateway product for first-time sauna buyers. Dundalk Leisurecraft, Almost Heaven, and SaunaLife are among the brands selling barrel saunas in North America.
As the category grows, entry-level product quality has become a growing concern for the industry.
