Finnish Sauna: Steam, Wood, Stone & How to Build Your Own

Lassi A. Liikkanen

Dr Lassi A. Liikkanen (he/him) is a designer, author, and founder. He is a recognized thought leader in Finnish sauna design and technology matters. With over a decade of experience in the Finnish tech industry, he has held pivotal roles in shaping digital products and services. A former active researcher, Dr Liikkanen has published more than 80 peer-reviewed articles and conference papers across product design, interactive technology, music psychology, cognitive neuroscience—and, of course, saunas. He also holds the title of Docent in Human-Centred Product Design at Aalto University, underscoring his commitment to advancing design thinking.

Since 2016, Dr. Liikkanen has become an internationally respected expert in sauna technology, sharing knowledge through his platform Saunologia.fi, which reaches over hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. His book Secrets of Finnish Sauna Design, first published in 2019, became available in English in 2021 and in Japanese since 2024.

Driven by a vision to make Finnish-style saunas accessible, authentic, and safe worldwide Dr Liikkanen offers Finnish sauna design and consulting services to clients globally, supported by a team of skilled Finnish sauna architects and specialists. With this team, Lassi has had the opportunity to contribute to over hundred sauna projects in North America, South America, Europe, Asia, and Australia. His ongoing research in sauna technology and design keeps him at the forefront of the field.