designing the perfect outdoor sauna setting in the western suburbs of chicago
when i talk with clients about adding an outdoor sauna to their backyard, the first thing i remind them is this: the setting matters just as much as the structure itself. a well-designed sauna should feel grounded, intentional, and fully integrated into the surrounding landscape. throughout naperville, aurora, plainfield, batavia, geneva, wheaton, downers grove, lisle, and the western suburbs of chicago, i’m seeing more homeowners looking for outdoor sauna designs that feel natural, calming, and connected to their outdoor living spaces.
one of my favorite ways to design a sauna is by nesting it into rocky, thick outcropping stone. natural stone immediately gives a sense of permanence and protection, which pairs beautifully with the ritual of sauna use. when layered with groundcovers, grassy perennials, and evergreen plantings, the sauna becomes part of the land rather than something placed on top of it. these landscape designs work especially well with custom hardscape construction, retaining walls, and stone pathways that guide you into the space and create a feeling of retreat.
another option i love is placing a sauna within a meditative garden. this approach focuses on slowing down and engaging the senses. soft textures, beautiful plants, ornamental grasses, and evergreen backdrops help buffer sound and create privacy. in the western suburbs of chicago, these gardens often include winding paths, subtle grade changes, and intentional views that make the sauna feel like a destination. the result is a backyard wellness space that supports both physical restoration and mental clarity.
for homes with modern outdoor living spaces, saunas can also be beautifully placed on custom wood decking. a deck-based sauna allows for clean lines while still feeling warm and inviting when paired with thoughtful landscape design. surrounding plantings, outdoor lighting, and natural materials soften the structure and help it blend seamlessly into the yard. this approach is especially popular in naperville, wheaton, and downers grove, where homeowners want flexibility without sacrificing aesthetics.
no matter the setting, successful outdoor sauna design always comes back to balance. the right combination of landscape design and construction, plant selection, and material choice transforms a simple sauna into a true backyard sanctuary. if you’re dreaming of a sauna that feels rooted in nature and thoughtfully designed for life in the western suburbs of chicago, this is where intentional outdoor living really begins.