Artificial intelligence and data-driven systems are becoming deeply embedded in the way we live and experience the spaces around us. From optimisation tools to virtual environments, the digital world continues to expand – offering efficiency, speed, and new possibilities. Yet as technology accelerates, the need for balance becomes increasingly clear.

Human beings are not purely rational or digital by nature. We seek connection, comfort, and meaning through physical experience – through the spaces we touch, see, hear, and move through every day. Architecture and design trends respond by shifting focus back to what makes spaces feel human: materiality, sensory depth, and emotional connection.

Where architecture is turning its attention – and why materials matter

Outdoor living

As daily life becomes increasingly screen-based, physical connection to nature grows in importance. Architecture responds by dissolving the boundary between inside and outside, creating terraces, courtyards, and transitional zones that extend living spaces into the outdoors.

Natural wood supports this continuity, bridging interior and exterior with warmth, texture, and material coherence. Extended wooden ceilings that continue as soffits, screened terraces, or garden retreats create outdoor spaces with the comfort and intimacy of a living room – while remaining immersed in lush greenery and natural light.

Sensory experiences

As the lines between the digital and physical continue to blur, architecture responds by engaging the senses. Texture, acoustics, warmth, light, and material tactility become essential design tools – creating environments that cannot be replicated on a screen.

Wood, with its natural warmth and tactile character, supports this sensory approach, helping create spaces that feel authentic, calm, and deeply human – spaces designed to be experienced rather than consumed visually.

Cladding

Interior

Decking

Sauna

Human-focused spaces

As AI and data-driven systems become an everyday part of life, there is a growing awareness of the need not to get lost in them. While technology helps us optimise, automate, and accelerate, human beings still seek comfort, presence, and emotional connection. The spaces we physically inhabit play a crucial role in maintaining that balance.

In response, architecture is increasingly shaped around human experience rather than pure efficiency – prioritising calm and a sense of belonging. This way of thinking, often linked to biophilic design, is reflected in the use of natural materials such as wood, which bring warmth, tactility, and a human scale to space.

Authenticity and imperfection

In contrast to digitally perfected environments, architects and designers are embracing honesty in materials and form. Natural variation, texture, and visible craftsmanship are increasingly valued as markers of authenticity – creating spaces that feel real, grounded, and lived-in rather than artificially flawless.

Patina, rather than being concealed, is increasingly seen as an integral part of a material’s character. Wood embodies this approach particularly well: when allowed to age naturally, it develops depth and character that reinforce a sense of authenticity – turning change into a design feature rather than a flaw.

The post 2026 Architecture & Design Trends: human-centred design and authentic materials appeared first on Thermory.

The alliance aims to fuel Japan’s rapidly expanding sauna industry and support the country’s growing demand for sustainable, high-quality materials in architecture and design. By leveraging Bergman’s nationwide network and deep engagement with Japanese sauna culture – including collaborations with leading sauna influencers such as TTNE – Thermory’s high-performance, eco-friendly wood will reach architects, builders, designers, and sauna enthusiasts across Japan.

Seiji Kasama, CEO of Bergman Co., Ltd.:
“Thermory’s products embody the quality and sustainability that Japan’s sauna culture demands. Their thermally modified woods are naturally durable and beautifully stable – exactly the kind of materials that align with Japanese values of craftsmanship and harmony with nature. We look forward to introducing Thermory’s versatile sauna and cladding materials, from aspen to magnolia, through our network. With Thermory, we can confidently raise the bar for premium sauna wood in Japan.”

About Bergman – Japan’s  Experienced Distributor of European Premium Products

Bergman Co., Ltd. is a Tokyo- and Sapporo-based company specializing in heating, sauna, and spa equipment. Established in 1997, Bergman has more than two decades of experience marketing European sauna and heating brands in Japan.

Under the leadership of CEO Seiji Kasama, Bergman has become a key force in Japan’s sauna market. In 2023, the company launched a joint venture with Finland’s Harvia and opened 50 Harvia “Sauna & Spa” showrooms nationwide.Bergman has extensive experience and a proven track record in localizing European products for the Japanese market, marketing them, and promoting sales. Mr. Kasama – himself a passionate sauna ambassador – emphasizes bringing authentic sauna experiences to Japan, noting: “Our challenge is to build real Finnish sauna into Japanese lifestyle.” Bergman also plays a prominent role in the country’s modern sauna movement through collaborations with TTNE (Totonoeru The New Era), a leading sauna creative collective and influencer group.

Premium Sauna and Exterior Wood Products

Through this partnership, Bergman will introduce Thermory’s full portfolio of sauna and architectural wood products to the Japanese market.

Sauna materials include:

• Thermo-aspen, alder, thermo-magnolia, thermo-radiata pine
  These species are renowned for their tight grain, excellent stability, resin-free surfaces, heat resistance, and the high profiling quality that characterizes Thermory products.

Exterior materials include:

• Thermally modified spruce, pine, clear pine, and ash
  These woods offer exceptional rot resistance, superior dimensional stability, and long-life performance – without any added chemicals.

All Thermory products are 100% natural, chemical-free, durable, and sustainably produced. Their qualities align perfectly with Japan’s strong emphasis on natural materials, sustainable wood cladding, and wellness-oriented design – offering architects and builders long-lasting, eco-friendly solutions for saunas, baths, and exterior architecture.

Strengthening Thermory’s Presence in Japan

Thermory’s products have been available in Japan on a limited basis for many years through specialized dealers. This new exclusive partnership represents a significant strategic advancement.

Demand is surging: Japanese interest in authentic sauna culture continues to rise. By partnering with Bergman – a trusted sauna materials distributor with deep market knowledge – Thermory is ideally positioned to support this growth.

“Thermory’s high-quality, naturally durable wood products resonate with Japanese values of craftsmanship and nature,” says Seiji Kasama, CEO of Bergman. “We chose Thermory because their versatile thermowood fits perfectly with the performance and sustainability expectations of Japan’s sauna enthusiasts.”

Sauna Culture and TTNE Collaboration

A key cultural advantage for this partnership is Bergman’s collaboration with TTNE (Totonoeru The New Era) – an influential Japanese sauna creative team known for fusing global sauna traditions with Japan’s rich bathing culture.

While TTNE is not a formal partner in the Thermory–Bergman agreement, their strong presence in Japan’s sauna movement amplifies awareness of premium sauna materials. TTNE’s founders have redefined sauna as a lifestyle in Japan and serve as Harvia’s global ambassadors. Their participation in the delegation celebrating the Thermory–Bergman partnership highlighted the shared mission to advance sauna wellness in Japan.

Through Bergman’s ties to TTNE and other sauna platforms, Thermory’s thermally modified woods will be showcased to industry leaders, influencers, and design-focused consumers – positioning Thermory as the premium standard for sauna wood products in Japan.

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Best private house – Summer Villa (Estonia)

CLADDING Thermo-radiata pine C4J (20×115); Thermo-ash Shingles S1 (150×350); Thermo-ash D4 (42×90)

CEILING Thermo radiata-pine CAR3 (20×138)

DECKING Thermo-ash D31

ARCHITECT Silver Soe, Ove Oot, Apex Arhitektuuribüroo OÜ

BUILDER / DEVELOPER Marek Kumpan / Lahever Ehitus OÜ

PHOTOGRAPHY Tõnu Tunnel

 

 

In Haapsalu’s historic wooden district, Summer Villa reinterprets Estonia’s lace-like timber heritage with modern precision. Clad in Thermory thermo-ash shingles and thermo-radiata pine panels, the villa captures the silvery tones of coastal light while large openings and sliding shutters dissolve the threshold between indoors and out.

The jury praised its “fresh, contemporary interpretation of historic wooden architecture” and “innovative use of wood,” noting that the project finds “the right level of crazy” in its fearless craftsmanship. With its distinctive geometry and attention to local tradition, the house stands as “impressive wooden architecture that blends with its surroundings – but not in a predictable way.”

Best public building – Võsu Primary School and Kindergarten

CLADDING & SOFFITS & DECKING Thermo-pine, different profiles and surface treatments (brushed, oiled, Vivid10 Opaque RAL9005 (Black)

ARCHITECT 3+1 Architects – Gert Guriev, Karin Harkmaa, Markus Kaasik, Kerstin Kivila, Helina Lass, Siim Tiisvelt

BUILDER / DEVELOPER Enska Ehitus OÜ

PHOTOGRAPHY Karl Kasepõld

Among the pine forests of Lahemaa National Park, the Võsu Primary School and Kindergarten redefines rural educational architecture. Designed by 3+1 Architects, the elongated, barn-like structure combines CLT, glulam, and Thermory thermo-pine across façades, soffits, and terraces. Its dark, brushed cladding and oiled wooden elements lend depth and warmth to the minimalist form.

The jury commended the project’s “architectural slimness and sense of lightness,” observing that the “roof seems to float above the landscape.” They also highlighted its emotional resonance – “wonderful that children can experience such a warm, inviting atmosphere in a school.”

By reinterpreting local building traditions through contemporary timber design, Võsu School establishes a powerful dialogue between past and present.

Best interior – Jõelähtme Juveel

WALLS Thermo-ash C72  & D4 (21×140; 26×72)

BATHROOM CEILING Thermo-pine C3, 20×140

ARCHITECT Annika Valkna

INTERIOR DESIGN Lasita – Perfecting Views & Katrin Kuldma

BUILDER / DEVELOPER Lasita; Dalton Kinnisvara

PHOTOGRAPHY Karl Kasepõld

Inspired by Wabi Sabi principles, Jõelähtme Juveel captures quiet elegance through imperfection. Nestled by a golf course, its interiors pair Thermory thermo-ash walls with limewashed ceilings and light CLT surfaces to create a calm, cohesive space.

The jury admired the home’s “exquisite use of wood – like elegant clothing,” praising the craftsmanship that conceals complex detailing behind an effortless appearance. Hidden doors, refined joints, and the visual continuation of thermo-pine ceilings from bathrooms to the exterior canopy blur boundaries between inside and out, offering what the jury called “a sense of roughness in the most elegant way.”

Best sauna – Baltimore Ravens’ Under Armour Performance Center

CEILING Thermo-Magnolia custom C4J profile ceiling with GRAD clips

SAUNA WALLS & BENCHES Thermo-Magnolia STS10 tongue and groove boards

ARCHITECT ZGF Architects

BUILDER / DEVELOPER The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company

PHOTOGRAPHY © Ema Peter Photography

In transforming the Baltimore Ravens’ iconic “Castle,” ZGF Architects designed a wellness and recovery environment that redefines athletic performance spaces. Featuring Thermory Thermo-Magnolia in custom ceiling and sauna applications, the interiors merge biophilic design with advanced functionality.

The jury described the project as “immersive and sensory – you can almost feel the water and the scent of wood,” praising its “clean, refined detailing” and “beautiful use of natural light.” Beyond technical mastery, the space evokes calm and connection – “a powerful, restorative environment that feels impressive.”

Special mention

Innovative products such as Wemel Wood’s precision-crafted extension cords and cable conduits, and Nukka Kitchen’s bold outdoor kitchen concepts, impressed the jury for expanding how thermowood can be used in product design.

The post Celebrating the Winners of the Thermory Design Awards 2025 appeared first on Thermory.

What makes thermowood so special?

Thermally modified wood stands out from traditional decking materials because it undergoes a specialized heat and steam treatment. This process changes the wood at a cellular level by removing sugars and moisture that typically attract decay, fungi, and insects. As a result, thermally modified wood becomes significantly more durable and stable, with improved resistance to rot, moisture, and warping.

Unlike pressure-treated wood, thermally modified wood is produced without chemicals making it a safe and environmentally friendly choice. The process also deepens the wood’s natural color, giving it a rich, attractive appearance that can serve as an alternative to tropical hardwoods. With these enhancements, thermowood offers a unique combination of long-lasting performance, natural beauty, and sustainability for decking projects.

Read more about thermowood decking.

Types of wood for decking

Our decking boards undergo intense thermal modification, giving them unrivaled durability and stability running all the way through to the core. Each board is naturally beautiful, expertly modified and highly functional – the perfect blend of art and science.

Thermo-ash

Thermally modified ash is the most popular choice for decking. This premium hardwood is made even more durable thanks to thermal modification and is tested to have Class 1 durability, meaning 25+ years of resistance to decay. Thermal modification gives ash a rich, deep brown color which makes it the perfect alternative to tropical woods like ipe and cumaru. Ash has the same look and feel, but is a more sustainable choice.

View products

Thermo-pine

The Nordic favourite has a very good price and quality ratio. It is more affordable than ash and has a durability of Class 2 – 15+ years of resistance to decay. When thermally modified, pine has a light, golden brown hue and is characterized by its knotty look. We source only Nordic pine, which is highly valued for its mechanical properties. This makes thermo-pine is a great substitute for Siberian larch.

View products

Thermo-spruce

Spruce is also a solid softwood option for decking. Thermo-spruce has a color and knotty look similar to pine, but better durability. It is tested for durability Class 1 – same resistance to decay as the thermo-ash. Thermo-spruce is an affordable decking material that’s perfect for demanding climatic conditions.

View products

Deck design and installation tips

Wood gives plenty of options for unique deck design. In addition to each species having a different visual look, the timber deck boards itself can be installed in different ways to achieve a desired architectural outcome. 

As thermowood decking boards as lightweight and come with straightforward installation guidelines, the wood is great to work with regardless of the size or shape of the deck. 

Key considerations for building a wood deck

• When designing a wood deck, focus on thoughtful layout planning to ensure both functionality and visual appeal. Consider how the deck will be used (entertaining, relaxing, dining), the flow between indoor and outdoor spaces, sun exposure, privacy, and how the deck integrates with the existing landscape. Here are some beautiful decking projects to inspire you!

• You can decide whether you want a traditional straight layout, diagonal, or a more intricate pattern. Patterns can add architectural interest and help visually define different zones on the deck. You can also opt for decking modules that are easy to snap into place – perfect for small balconies. 

• A solid, well-prepared subframe is essential for a long-lasting deck. We recommend building the subframe in thermowood as well, so it lasts as long as the decking boards themselves.

• Proper ventilation beneath the deck is crucial to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to rot and structural issues. Ensure there is adequate clearance between the ground and the deck, and that air can circulate freely around and under the decking boards. 

• When it comes to fastening and fixing techniques, choose high-quality, stainless steel screws to securely fasten boards and prevent staining or corrosion.

See more installation tips from Thermory decking guidelines.

Deck building essentials – hidden fixing

If you want the decking to have a clean look, we recommend using decking boards that have hidden fixing.

Thermory PaCS® Strip is an innovative fastening solution with pre-grooved boards that enable a quick and easy deck installation with no visible screw heads and automatic alignment with a gap of 5 mm between the boards and substructure beams to ensure good ventilation. The strips, which fit together end to end, each consist of six clips that allow three boards to be attached sideways onto a single joist by simply securing the strips and then clicking the boards into place.

Installation systems for Thermory decking

Deck maintenance and longevity

The essence of why thermowood is the best material for decking isn’t just about the looks. Thermally modified wood has a long lifespan and, in addition, needs little maintenance besides regular cleaning. 

• No chemicals are used in the thermal modification process, only heat and steam. That also means that during the lifespan of the decking, no chemical treatments are needed. 

• Adding UV protection oil is optional. As with all wood, thermowood’s surface also naturally weathers to grey when exposed to sun, rain, snow and other elements. The more exposure, the quicker the change in color. If you are okay with the visual look of grey decking, you don’t need to oil the deck. The durability of the wood hasn’t declined. Decking oils can be used to keep the initial color of the thermowood. 

• Thermally modified boards can be simply washed with a wood cleaning product and warm water – if it’s particularly dirty you may also require a brush. Then, rinse with a garden hose on the spray setting. Use a low water pressure and test it on a small area beforehand to ensure it doesn’t cause damage – a strong jet of water can make the surface of the wood visibly uneven.

Sustainability and environmental impact of thermowood

As the construction industry faces urgent challenges around deforestation and carbon emissions, choosing a sustainable decking material has never been more important. Thermowood stands out for its performance and beauty, but also for its commitment to environmental responsibility throughout its entire lifecycle.

At Thermory, all timber is sourced from responsibly managed forests, prioritizing wood that is FSC® or PEFC™ certified. These certifications ensure that forests are replanted, biodiversity is protected, and local communities are supported.

Unlike many alternatives, thermowood is produced using only heat and steam — no chemicals, plastics, or harmful additives. This thermal modification process not only enhances durability and weather resistance but also minimizes environmental impact. Thermowood is safe for families, pets, and local ecosystems, both during installation and at the end of its long life.

Another key aspect of sustainability is product lifespan. Thermowood’s enhanced durability means decks last  longer than untreated wood or many composite options. Fewer replacements over time mean fewer trees harvested, less energy consumed, and less waste sent to landfill, maximizing the positive impact of your decking choice.

At the end of its service, thermowood is fully biodegradable. Unlike composite decking, which can persist in landfills for generations, thermowood naturally returns to the earth without leaving behind microplastics or chemical residues. This ensures your environmental impact remains positive from start to finish. Better yet, once the wood is not redeemed presentable enough for decking, we recommend reusing the material as flowerpots, fencing, garden shed cladding or other creative applications.

The post Why thermowood is the best material for decking? appeared first on Thermory.

Let’s explore some of the best ways to combine cladding profiles and materials to elevate your design. 

1. Play with Board Widths 

One of the simplest ways to mix profiles is by alternating between wider and narrower boards. This creates a rhythm across the surface that catches the light differently throughout the day, adding texture and subtle shadow play. 

Our C34 profile was designed with this in mind. It allows for seamless mixing and matching, giving your façade vertical emphasis and even making the building appear taller as the eye is drawn upward. 

2. Mix Orientations: Vertical and Horizontal

Changing the direction of the boards has a dramatic impact on how a building is perceived. Vertical cladding accentuates height, while horizontal boards emphasize width and stability. When used together, they highlight different volumes of the house and bring balance to the overall proportions. 

This technique is particularly effective for breaking up multi-level buildings, allowing you to showcase architectural elements rather than letting them blend into one another. 

3. Combine Finishes: Painted and Natural Timber 

Using the same wood species in different finishes is a smart way to achieve contrast without losing harmony. For example, pairing painted cladding with natural timber creates visual intrigue while maintaining material consistency. The result feels cohesive, yet never dull. 

This approach works especially well when you want to highlight certain areas of the façade, such as entranceways, balconies, or extensions. 

Combine shingles with vertical boards

For a façade that feels truly dynamic, try combining shingles with traditional cladding boards. Shingles add fine-grained texture and a handcrafted quality, while classical boards provide structure and clean lines. The pairing creates a striking contrast in scale and texture. This approach is perfect if you want your house to stand out while still respecting traditional architectural roots. 

Shingles

5. Mix Wood with Other Materials 

Wood also pairs beautifully with other building materials. 

The natural warmth of wood softens the cool, heavy presence of stone or brick, making the design feel more welcoming. Adding timber introduces a touch of nature that balances sleek modern finishes, preventing the exterior from feeling too industrial or cold. 

Wood has a timeless quality. Whether you’re designing a traditional home or a modern retreat, it creates contrast and harmony at the same time, blending natural warmth with architectural structure. 

Mixing cladding profiles is an effective design strategy you can use to bring variety, depth, and personality to a building. Whether you’re alternating board widths, combining vertical and horizontal lines, pairing painted and natural finishes, or mixing wood with other materials, the result is a façade that feels balanced yet strikingly unique. 

At Thermory, we believe wood belongs in every building. It connects people to nature, softens harder surfaces, and creates a timeless look that only improves with age.  

The post Can you mix different cladding profiles on the same house? appeared first on Thermory.

Is wood panelling in a bathroom a good idea?  

The short answer: yes, it is.  

Design-wise, wood works especially well in small spaces where wall surfaces matter most. While tiles can feel clinical, natural wood softens the space, adds depth, and creates visual warmth without overwhelming it. You get maximum impact with minimal effort. 

Of course, practicality matters.  

The main concern is moisture. Wood naturally absorbs water, which means in wet conditions it could swell or promote mildew. But this doesn’t have to be a dealbreaker. With proper ventilation and the right material choice, wood panelling can perform beautifully in bathrooms.  

After all, saunas are built entirely from wood and they withstand constant heat and humidity. The key is choosing the right kind of wood.  

The secret to durability: thermally modified wood  

Untreated woods and veneers may suffer in bathrooms, but thermally modified wood changes the game.

Thermal modification uses heat and steam to transform the structure of the wood. During this process, wood’s chemical and physical properties are altered: moisture is released, sugars are broken down, and the material becomes far less absorbent.  

The result is wood that is more dimensionally stable, resistant to rot, and less likely to swell in humid environments. In other words, the exact qualities you need for a bathroom.  

Thermory’s thermally modified wood is designed to excel outdoors where it has to endure constant rain, sun, and seasonal shifts. That means that in a bathroom, it easily holds up against splashes, steam, and changing temperatures.   

Style options for bathroom wood panelling  

Bathroom wood panelling isn’t just about performance, it’s also about style. With Thermory’s range of colors, profiles, and finishes, you can achieve almost any look.  

Color

Thermal modification naturally enhances wood’s color, producing warm tones ranging from golden brown to deep chocolate. For example, thermally modified ash develops a rich, dark hue, while aspen takes on a light brown with a soft golden shimmer. For even more variety, our Ignite and Drift collections offer painted thermowood options with striking character and pre-weathered aesthetics.

Profile

Wood panelling allows you to go beyond flat walls. Choose ribbed or fluted profiles for texture, wide boards for a minimalist look, or mix profiles for subtle contrast. This flexibility gives you freedom to design walls that are simple yet stylish—or bold and architectural.

See all thermally modified interior products

Design inspiration 

Scandinavian-style bathrooms with light wood tones for a clean, airy feel

Dark, spa-inspired designs with rich brown tones and dimmed lighting 

Mixed-material bathrooms where wood panels are paired with stone, tiles, or glass for contrast

Check out our SmartS collection

Bathrooms often require shorter board lengths, especially in smaller urban homes. Our SmartS collection is designed with this in mind. It reduces the need for cutting long boards in tight conditions, saving both time and costs during installation.  

SmartS collection

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Grey cladding delivers a timeless, sophisticated aesthetic that complements both minimalist, contemporary architecture and rustic, countryside homes. It’s a finish that feels modern while still being rooted in traditions. And it will continue to look relevant years into the future. 

How to achieve the perfect grey look? 

There are several paths to achieving that coveted silver-grey finish, each with its own benefits: 

Natural weathering

Timber naturally turns grey when exposed to sunlight and rain. This occurs because of UV exposure, which breaks down the lignin in the wood surface. The process takes time and may result in uneven tones, depending on orientation and weather exposure. While authentic, it can create patchiness if uniformity is the goal. 

Natural weathering of wood: 4 Things to Know and Consider

Thermory Vivid Silvered Cladding

For a more predictable finish, Thermory offers factory-painted cladding in light and dark silver tones. Over time, the water-based paint gradually fades, while the underlying timber weathers naturally. This ensures that the transition is seamless and the overall look remains coherent. No additional coating is needed, just slight cleaning.  

Explore Vivid collection

Thermory Silvered Shield

Another solution is the Silvered Shield coating, which lets the timber’s natural grain shine through while helping the wood weather more evenly, reducing the patchiness that can sometimes occur with natural greying. The result is a consistent, authentic silver tone with added architectural appeal. 

Read more about Vivid series cladding

The takeaway 

Grey timber cladding isn’t just a fleeting trend. It’s a design choice that reflects modern values: simplicity, authenticity, and long-lasting beauty. With Thermory’s range of solutions, you can achieve the look you want, whether that’s letting wood age naturally or choosing a pre-finished silvered tone that ensures harmony from day one. 

Read more: Why prefer painted Thermory thermowood to regular painted wood cladding?

The post Grey wood cladding: an aesthetic look with low maintenance   appeared first on Thermory.

Ribbed wood paneling for added depth

Ribbed wood paneling is a great way to introduce warmth and texture to an interior. The natural brown tones of the wood provide enough color without overwhelming the space, even in smaller rooms. Subtle ridges of the ribbed cladding boards add depth and visual interest. This paneling style is ideal for accent walls in living rooms, hallways, or behind a bed.

Wood accent wall panels

Always elegant thermo-ash cladding

Thermally modified ash has a signature rich, chocolate brown color that instantly adds sophistication to a space. When used for interior cladding, it brings a warm, elegant, and high-end feel. Its durability makes it suitable for both feature walls and full-room applications. Pair it with neutral tones and soft lighting to emphasize its richness.

Thermo-ash cladding products

Dramatic black and charred look

The shou sugi ban look is popular for exteriors but needs modern adaptations for interiors to avoid soot or residue. Ignite by Thermory offers this dramatic aesthetic with the texture and character of charred wood, but in a clean, interior-safe finish. It’s perfect for creating bold statement walls or contrasting details. Combine with lighter tones or metals for a contemporary edge.

Ignite

You can’t go wrong with classic wall panels

A classic option favored in traditional interiors, shiplap and similar solutions can also be used tastefully in modern spaces. Its clean lines and subtle texture add charm without overpowering the room. The light, natural tone of the wood pairs well with a variety of color palettes. It’s also easy to paint or stain to fit your personal style.

Wall panel STP Alder

Wooden tiles for unlimited creativity

Wooden tiles like Rhomb by Thermory are easy to install and offer endless design possibilities. They allow you to play with geometric patterns to create striking feature walls or small accent areas. Use them to bring a touch of artistry to any space, from headboards to entryways. The rich color of thermo-ash contrasts beautifully with minimalist surroundings.

Decor Rhomb tiles thermo-ash

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Experience level matters 

Your body’s tolerance to heat develops over time. If you’re new to sauna bathing, it’s best to start slow and work your way up. Consistency is more beneficial than pushing too hard!

• Beginners: Limit sessions to 5–10 minutes. This allows your body to adjust gradually without overwhelming your system. 
• Intermediate: If you’ve used saunas regularly for a few weeks, 10–15 minutes is a safe window. 
• Experienced: Many seasoned sauna-goers stay in for 15–20 minutes, and some may tolerate up to 30 minutes with proper hydration and awareness. 

Type of sauna you’re using

Different types of saunas offer different heat intensities, which affects how long you can stay comfortably inside. 

Traditional Dry or Steam Sauna (75–93°C): The high heat makes 15–20 minutes the standard max duration for most users. 

Infrared Sauna (50–65°C): Infrared heats the body more directly, not the air, so the temperature feels gentler. You can typically stay for 20–30 minutes, depending on your comfort level. 

Temperature plays a key role 

The hotter the sauna, the shorter your session should be. 

• High heat (75–93°C): Stick to 10–15 minutes, especially if you’re not accustomed to extreme temperatures. 
• Moderate to lower heat (50–65°C): This is typically found in infrared saunas and allows for 20–30 minutes of use. 

Read more: What is the best temperature to use for the sauna?

Hydration is critical 

Sweating is your body’s natural cooling mechanism, but it also leads to fluid loss. Dehydration can creep up quickly in a sauna. 

• Before: Drink a glass of water before stepping in. 
• During: Sip water if needed—especially during longer or multiple rounds. 
• After: Rehydrate with water or an electrolyte-rich drink to replenish what you’ve lost. 

Consider your health 

Certain health conditions may affect how your body handles heat. When in doubt, check with your doctor, especially if you’re new to sauna bathing or managing a medical condition.

Conditions like heart disease, low blood pressure, or circulatory disorders may reduce heat tolerance. Also, some medications can alter your response to heat or affect hydration. When pregnant, always consult with a healthcare provider before using a sauna. 

Tailor session length to your goals

The ideal sauna duration can also vary depending on why you’re using it. 

• Relaxation and stress relief: 10–20 minutes is often enough to unwind and calm your nervous system.
• Post-workout recovery: A session of 15–20 minutes can help reduce muscle soreness and promote recovery.
• Detoxification or skin cleansing: Many users opt for 20–30 minutes in an infrared sauna, which promotes deep sweating at lower temperatures. 

Important: More time in the sauna doesn’t always equal more benefits. Focus on consistency and how your body feels. 

5 unexpected sauna benefits

Age considerations 

Age can affect heat sensitivity, so it’s important to take extra care with both children and older adults. 

• Children: Only use saunas under supervision and for shorter periods (typically under 10 minutes at lower heat). 
• Elderly: Should also limit time and heat exposure, especially if they have underlying health issues. 

General sauna safety recommendations 

Listen to your body: If you feel dizzy, lightheaded, overheated, or uncomfortable—exit the sauna immediately. 

Cool down properly: Take a cool shower, hydrate, and rest afterward to help your body return to normal temperature. 

Avoid alcohol and heavy meals: These can impair your body’s ability to regulate heat and hydration. 

Sauna bathing is a time-honored wellness practice, and like any health habit, the key is balance. Whether you’re soaking up the dry heat of a traditional sauna or the penetrating warmth of infrared, knowing your limits ensures a safe and enjoyable experience. 

Start slow, listen to your body, and adjust based on how you feel. With regular use, you’ll find the sweet spot that suits your routine, lifestyle, and goals. 

The post How long should you stay in a sauna? appeared first on Thermory.

What is an exterior soffit? 

An exterior soffit is the horizontal surface that bridges the gap between the exterior wall and the edge of the roofline. It also applies to the underside of other overhangs such as porches or balconies, where the same protective and aesthetic functions are needed. 

It conceals roof rafters, shields the structure from weather, and helps ventilate the attic or roof cavity. Without soffits, buildings are left vulnerable to moisture, pests, and structural damage. 

But soffits do more than protect — they frame the building’s silhouette. By covering raw construction elements with a refined material, they give the exterior a polished and intentional finish. 

Why soffits matter as a design feature

Traditionally, soffits were considered a purely functional part of construction, often made from plain, inexpensive materials and designed to go unnoticed. That has changed. In contemporary architecture, soffits are increasingly being used as a canvas for creative expression. 

Extending natural wood to eaves, ceilings, and balcony undersides creates a sense of flow that unifies the entire exterior. A wood soffit can visually elongate a roofline, emphasize architectural geometry, or add warmth and texture to minimalist designs.  

Wood’s natural grain, depth, and warmth add a tactile quality that synthetic alternatives cannot replicate. With the right material, soffits can transform from an overlooked detail into a defining design statement. 

Choosing the right wood for soffits? 

The choice of material is critical for soffits. They must endure exposure to the elements while maintaining their beauty with minimal upkeep. That’s why thermally modified wood is an ideal solution. 

At Thermory, we offer four thermally modified species that combine aesthetic variety with outstanding performance: 

Thermo-ash

A high-performance hardwood with a rich chocolate-brown tone. Thermo-ash offers exceptional dimensional stability and resistance to rot.

Thermo-ash cladding products

Thermo-pine

Thermally modified pine delivers a classic natural look and provides long-lasting durability, outperforming untreated softwoods.

Thermo-pine cladding products

Thermo-spruce

A rustic look with excellent durability – spruce is a Nordic favourite for a reason. The light tone and knotty look provide a sense of texture.

Thermo-spruce cladding products

What makes thermally modified wood special? The process uses only heat and steam — no chemicals — to transform the structure of the wood. This makes it: 

• Lightweight and easy to handle 

• Simple to cut on site 

• Uniform in color for a consistent look 

• Durable and rot resistant 

• Low maintenance, needing little ongoing care 

By combining these qualities, Thermory wood soffits deliver both beauty and practicality, without compromise. 

How to install wood soffits? 

Practical installation is just as important as performance and aesthetics. Thermory products are designed with ease of installation in mind. Depending on the chosen profile, soffits can be installed with: 

• Screws – the most straightforward option for visible fixing. 
• Hidden clips – allowing for a clean and seamless appearance. 
• PaCS® system – an innovative press-and-click solution for faster, more precise installation with no visible screws. 

These options give contractors the flexibility to choose the best method for the project, while ensuring the finished soffit looks polished and professional. 

Thermowood Cladding Installation & Care

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