Finnmark Design and Materials: Wyld Sauna, Liverpool Princes Dock

Wyld Sauna, an innovative outdoor wellness structure marks a milestone as the UK's first public floating sauna. Nestled on Liverpool’s Princes Dock, this unique sauna offers bathers a serene escape paired with waterfront views.

Finnmark played a pivotal role in this project by providing our Design and Materials service. Our contributions included designing, providing materials and fabricating key elements of the sauna’s interior, from the bespoke benching system to the specification of technical components, ensuring an authentic Nordic sauna experience.

 A sleek floating sauna with large front-facing windows and beautiful wood finish sits gracefully on Liverpool's Princes Dock. Image provided by Wyld. 

Crafting the Interior: Dimensions and Premium Materials

The sauna’s spacious design measures just over 4.6m x 2.6m. To match the vision for a premium, authentic aesthetic, thermo alder was specified as the timber. Thermo alder undergoes natural thermal treatment at high temperatures. This process darkens the wood, enhancing its durability and imbuing it with a distinctive toasted wood aroma. The use of thermo alder ensures resilience against the challenging conditions in a public sauna, while maintaining a refined appearance.

Thermo alder is an excellent choice for a public sauna, combining a classic look with a robust structure. Image by Alexander Barlow. 

The Sauna Heater: Performance Meets Elegance

At the heart of the floating sauna lies the IKI Pro 35kW Commercial Electric Sauna Heater, a model blending functionality and design. With a substantial 240kg stone capacity, the heater ensures consistent and efficient heat retention, essential for accommodating the sauna’s large capacity of up to 30 people.

The heater’s open-sanded pipe structure optimises air circulation, accelerating the heating process for a quick yet even warmth. Unlike conventional commercial electric sauna heaters, the IKI Pro combines practicality with elegance, aligning seamlessly with the sauna’s overall aesthetic. A carefully crafted wooden heater guard surrounds the heater for enhanced safety without compromising visual appeal.

IKI Pro is an elegant sauna heater designed for heavy-duty professional use. Image by Alexander Barlow. 

Bespoke 4-Tiered Bench System

To create a comfortable and functional space for bathers, we specified an ample 4-tiered bench system along the back wall, oriented to maximise the view through the sauna’s large front window. The inclusion of a backrest adds to the comfort, while two-tiered steps on either side of the benching improve accessibility for all users. This thoughtful design ensures an immersive and relaxing experience while providing a safe and practical layout.

The sleek 4-tiered bench system is crafted from thermo alder, offering ample seating and comfort. Image by Alexander Barlow. 

A Blend of Warm Ambient Lighting

Lighting plays a crucial role in creating the sauna’s tranquil ambiance. We incorporated SAAS Sauna Viiva LED light strips, strategically positioned behind the backrest and the bench lips. These lights with their IP55 rating, are specifically designed to withstand the heat and humidity of a commercial-grade sauna. Their warm white glow complements the natural tones of the thermo alder timber, offering a soft, inviting illumination that enhances the overall aesthetic and visitor experience.

SAAS strip lights add a stylish touch to the sauna, casting a warm glow that enhances the design and creates a relaxing atmosphere. Image by Alexander Barlow.

Windows and Natural Light

The sauna’s design invites the outdoors in, with a large front-facing window (provided by others) that opens up views of Liverpool’s waters. Additionally, smaller windows at the back of the sauna, positioned behind the upper benches, allow for additional natural light to filter in.

A Floating Sauna Experience

Wyld Sauna is a testament to innovation, design and craftsmanship. Through close collaboration with the client, we ensured that every detail of the sauna’s interior met the client vision and the highest standards of functionality, aesthetics and authenticity. From the durable, aromatic thermo alder timber to the efficient and elegant IKI Pro heater, every element was thoughtfully chosen to deliver a premium Nordic sauna experience.

The floating sauna is a stunning addition to the waterfront. Image by Alexander Barlow.

Located at Liverpool’s Princes Dock, the UK’s first public floating sauna stands as a symbol of the harmonious blend of tradition and modernity, inviting all to embrace the calming rituals of sauna.

Visit Wyld Sauna. to experience it first-hand.