Tiered seating is a fundamental feature in traditional and modern sauna design, providing multiple levels of benches that allow users to choose their preferred heat intensity. By positioning benches at ascending heights, tiered seating enhances comfort, heat distribution, and overall functionality of the sauna space. Whether in a compact home setup or a spacious commercial facility, this seating style is key to creating an authentic and effective sauna experience.
What Is Tiered Seating?
Tiered seating refers to the arrangement of benches on different vertical levels within a sauna. Typically, there are two or three levels:
-
Lower Bench: Positioned closest to the floor and offers the coolest temperature.
-
Middle Bench: Provides moderate heat, ideal for most users.
-
Upper Bench: Closest to the ceiling where heat accumulates, offering the most intense warmth.
This layout allows users to move between levels based on their comfort level and desired heat exposure.
Benefits of Tiered Seating in a Sauna
Incorporating tiered benches into sauna design offers several functional and experiential advantages:
-
Personalized Heat Experience: Users can choose seating based on their heat tolerance.
-
Optimized Heat Circulation: Encourages natural stratification of hot air within the sauna.
-
Space Efficiency: Maximizes usable space, especially in compact saunas.
-
Social Interaction: Encourages group use with flexible arrangements for multiple users.
Design and Construction Considerations
To ensure safety and comfort, tiered seating should be carefully planned and constructed using heat-resistant, sauna-safe materials such as cedar, aspen, or hemlock. Design considerations include:
-
Bench Height: Common heights are approximately 40–50 cm (16–20 inches) for lower benches and 90–110 cm (35–43 inches) for upper benches.
-
Step Access: Incorporate steps or ladders for safe and easy access to higher tiers.
-
Ventilation: Maintain airflow beneath the benches to promote even heating and drying.
-
Rounded Edges: Ensure all edges are smoothed to avoid injury or discomfort.
Seating Comfort and Accessories
Comfort can be enhanced with thoughtful accessories and design additions:
-
Backrests: Offer lumbar support and improve relaxation.
-
Seat Cushions or Towels: Add a layer between skin and wood for comfort and hygiene.
-
Reclining Space: Allow space on upper tiers for lying down, which is a traditional practice.
Best Practices for Use
To get the most out of tiered seating in your sauna experience:
- Start on the lower bench if you're new to sauna use or sensitive to high heat
- Gradually move to higher tiers as your body adjusts to the temperature
- Hydrate before and after to stay refreshed and avoid dehydration
- Use towels to sit on for hygiene and to protect the wood
Conclusion
Tiered seating is not only a functional necessity but also a defining element of the sauna experience. It supports temperature control, social interaction, and user comfort in a space designed for relaxation and wellness. Whether building a sauna from scratch or upgrading an existing one, including well-designed tiered benches will greatly enhance the experience for every user.
