Book Crystal Sauna
Experience the Crystal Sauna, a unique sauna and art installation in Skellefteå. It is designed to resemble a sparkling crystal inspired by lithium, which has become a symbol of the green transition.
Located in Scharin’s old industrial area in Ursviken, the sauna is part of the ongoing development of the area and the park Wasteland. The site is set to become a hub for culture and dialogue about sustainable solutions for the future. A visit to the Crystal Sauna is more than just relaxation. It is an experience of contrasts between a raw industrial setting, modern architecture, and the natural beauty of northern Sweden.
Read more about Wasteland External link, opens in new window.
The sauna’s design
The sauna is designed to resemble an asymmetrical rock crystal. The facade consists of approximately 280 prisms clad in titanium-coated pink mirror panels that reflect the surrounding landscape. The distinctive pink color is created by vaporizing titanium and condensing it onto the sheet metal in a vacuum chamber under an electric current. The entire structure leans 4 degrees backward to evoke natural rock formations, as well as the Leaning Tower of Pisa, making this the most complex construction project of the artists’ careers.
The sculpture was designed entirely digitally, and its more than 140 metal plates (58 top sections and 86 side sections) were laser-cut and assembled with more than 3,500 nuts and bolts. The sauna stands on a hexagonal wooden deck made of local heartwood pine.
The interior of the sauna
The interior of the sauna is shaped like an ancient cave, a tribute to humanity’s earliest settlements in the Rift Valley of East Africa, where people first learned to master fire. The material is a heat-resistant fine-grain plywood with a certified spruce frame. The floor is constructed of naturally resin-rich northern Swedish heartwood pine. Heartwood pine was chosen because it does not require chemical treatment to withstand moisture and rot. The sauna benches are handcrafted from alder.
A unique sauna heater
The heater is hand-forged and inspired by humanity’s oldest
known tool: a 2.5-million-year-old chisel from the Oldowan culture in East Africa.
This is the world’s first battery-powered sauna, which can be powered
by electricity from both standalone batteries and electric vehicles. Through the “Vehicle-to-Sauna” project, Skellefteå Kraft is testing and developing innovative technology that enables an electric car battery to power both the sauna and the entire park.
Practical Information
- The sauna can accommodate 12 people.
- The area features changing rooms, outdoor showers, and a barbecue area.
- You must be at least 18 years old to book the sauna.
- A sauna pass costs 1,000 SEK/2 hours
- Upon arrival for your booked visit, you will be met by two hosts who will provide a brief tour of the area and inform you of the rules and practical information. The hosts will meet you in the parking lot at the start of your booking.
- Instructions for booking the sauna pdf, 174.2 kB, opens in new window.
Please note that Skellefteå Municipality advises against swimming in the river.
Accessibility
The sauna and changing rooms with restrooms are accessible. Parking is available in close proximity to the area.
Book a time
Select a date and time in the booking calendar to view available sessions. Each booking is for one sauna session and gives you access to the entire sauna area during your booked time. As the person making the booking, you are responsible for ensuring that the rules are followed during your session. Payment is made at the time of booking.
Cancellation
If you are unable to attend, you can cancel your session via the link in your booking confirmation. Cancellations must be made at least 48 hours before the booked time to be eligible for a refund or rescheduling. In case of late cancellation or a no-show, the full amount will be charged.
If you have booked
The sauna may only be used during your booked time slot. As the person responsible for the booking, you are responsible for ensuring that the sauna is vacated on time and left in good condition after use. The booking is personal and may not be transferred to anyone else.
Please note that
- bring your own toiletries, towel, and slippers
- bring a padlock if you want to lock up your belongings
- leave the sauna in a clean condition
- take your trash with you and dispose of it in the designated bins
- wipe down surfaces in the sauna and changing room
- if necessary, check the changing areas and restroom before leaving
- use of the sauna and presence on the premises are at your own risk
Contact
If you have any questions, problems, or urgent matters, please feel free to contact us.
If you notice any damage, malfunctions, or issues, we would appreciate it if you could notify us as soon as possible.