Biophilic Design
How natural materials shape the wellness experience inside the sauna
Modern wellness concepts from KLAFS draw on a close connection to nature to promote physical wellbeing and evoke emotional resonance. Fire, earth, water and air symbolise authenticity and the power of transformation – a return to our roots that can help reduce stress.
Natural materials such as wood, stone and glass are refined with intention and translated into harmonious compositions, always aligned with the architecture, the usage concept and the desired atmosphere. This creates a valuable source of calm and regeneration that goes far beyond decorative design, becoming a sensorial expression of natural balance.
The sensory aesthetics of wood
Wood has always embodied pure Scandinavian sauna culture. Natural, warm and elemental. Yet today it is far more than tradition, becoming a defining feature of contemporary spa design. Whether light and clean, dark and elegant, or combined with glass, stone and lighting, wood offers extraordinary stylistic versatility. Its natural texture, subtle scent and living surface make it an emotional anchor within spa architecture, and therefore the heart of biophilic design.
As the world market leader in sauna, wellness and spa design, KLAFS places particular emphasis on the selection, processing and presentation of this natural material as it resonates so deeply with people and gives every spa a distinctive character.
The Language of Wood
- Hemlock – light, knot‑free and silky to the touch. This robust wood brings clarity to the spa and ensures a pleasant climate thanks to its even heat distribution, ideal for intensive sauna sessions.
- Walnut – dark, elegant and full of character. Its rich colouring with a warm sheen and refined patina gives the room depth and exclusivity – a statement choice for a design‑conscious aesthetic.
- Spruce – Nordic, fresh and close to nature. Its light texture opens up spaces visually, while its subtle scent creates a sense of comfort, perfect for an authentic, nature‑inspired sauna atmosphere.
- Swiss pine (Stone pine) – golden, aromatic and calming. Its essential oils are known for promoting restful sleep and inner serenity, adding a touch of Alpine warmth to any spa.
This wide spectrum of woods opens up countless design possibilities, from delicate interior cladding to ergonomic loungers and intricate 3D laser engravings. Even reclaimed wood reveals its own unique charm in modern spa architecture, carefully restored and thoughtfully showcased. In this way, wood becomes an emotional medium that transforms every sauna into a truly sensorial experience.
The Diversity of Materials
As essential as wood is to sauna culture, spa design thrives on a rich and layered material palette. In steam baths, warm bathing formats such as hammams or the caldarium, natural stone, marble, quartz and glass each create their own distinctive sensory effect. Cool surfaces meet gentle lighting, smooth textures contrast with warmth and tactility.
Natural stone gives spaces grounding and tranquillity, with veining that feels both timeless and primal. Marble introduces elegance and refinement, particularly when paired with water and soft, indirect lighting. Quartz shimmers subtly, shifting beautifully with the light, while glass brings openness, transparency and a sense of lightness, ideal for visually expanding wellness zones and creating fluid transitions.
The deliberate selection and composition of materials give a spa not only style but substance, from minimalist and understated to luxurious and opulent. Our approach follows no trend, but rather the question of what feels right, appears natural, and delights guests over the long term. Always aligned with the architecture and the desired character of the spa layout.
The Symbiosis of Nature and Technology
In modern spa concepts, technology is an integral element. Yet especially in commercial spas, one thing is true: guests rarely remember technical specifications. They remember how a space feels. We integrate technology in ways that enhance comfort, personalisation and efficiency, without disrupting the atmosphere.
Lighting, temperature, humidity and infusion settings can be controlled intelligently and intuitively. Innovations such as VITALITY BOOST, lighting concepts or digital control systems support the wellness journey without pushing themselves into the foreground.
The technology stays discreetly in the background. Its impact is felt, not seen. This creates a balance between high‑tech and mindfulness, between digital precision and analogue relaxation. A symbiosis that refines the entire spa experience.
Technology with Substance
Innovation emerges where well engineered technology meets precise craftsmanship. Modern control systems with intuitive user interfaces, patented heater technologies such as Turboheat, and energy optimised ventilation systems ensure that comfort and efficiency go hand in hand. Whether a standard model or a fully bespoke solution, every component is functionally considered, VDE‑tested and meets the high standards of the RAL quality mark for sauna construction.
Operation remains simple and self‑explanatory, often via large touch displays that present all functions clearly at a glance.
