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How a Sauna Got Students Talking: Bauhaus Uni Weimar’s Mobile Sauna Project

Imagine a sauna built from scratch by a mix of students and volunteers, designed as a space where people can sweat, connect, and talk openly across different viewpoints. That’s what happened when Harvia teamed up with Bauhaus-University Weimar. Here’s the story.

Designed to Move, Made to Share

The Bauhaus-University Weimar project, ‘Sweating Against the Cold’ began with a simple goal: to create an open space where people can meet, relax, and share experiences. The team wanted to build something that brings people together, lowers barriers, and strengthens a sense of community. What could be better for that than a sauna - an experience that unites people across cultures and generations?

The process started with collective brainstorming and sketches, which evolved into a 3D model and were adapted throughout construction. Over several cold winter months, the team worked mostly outdoors, facing challenges from weather, logistics, and new techniques. Harvia provided guidance on heater selection and technical implementation, ensuring the sauna would be safe, efficient, and ready to use.

Pop-Up Experiences around Weimar

From the start, portability was central. The sauna is made of modular wooden elements with lightweight polycarbonate panels, allowing it to be assembled, dismantled, and transported easily. Storage under the benches keeps clothing and valuables secure, and mobile changing rooms or showers can be added if needed.

The sauna now travels across Weimar, hosting pop-up events where visitors can enjoy a traditional sauna session alongside workshops, talks, and community activities.

More than Just Health Benefits

The sauna provides all the classic advantages to physical and mental health: improved circulation, immune support, and deep relaxation. It also offers a space where people who might not otherwise be able to experience sauna can slow down, connect, and enjoy time in the company of others.

Powered by Harvia

The ‘Sweating Against the Cold’ team chose a Harvia Pro 26 wood-burning heater, after careful consideration of the sauna’s size, capacity, and intended use. Harvia’s guidance ensured the stove provides consistent, high-quality heat, heats the sauna efficiently, and meets safety standards for a mobile, public space. The wood-burning design also adds a traditional element to the experience, giving participants the authentic aroma, warmth, and rhythm of a classic sauna session. This choice allowed the team to focus on mobility and flexibility without compromising comfort or performance.

This collaboration demonstrates how design, craftsmanship, and community can come together in new and inspiring ways. The sauna is more than a structure - it’s a platform for learning, creativity, and meaningful human connection.