Helsinki firm JKMM Architects is building a sauna in the depths of the Nevada desert so that visitors of this year's Burning Man can cleanse and relax.
JKMM Architects teamed up with Finish creative collaborative Sauna on Fire to create the Steam of Life Pavilion for the festival, which kicks off in the Nevada desert this weekend.

While a hot sauna may be an unusual choice for such a warm climate, the duo intend the pavilion to offer revellers a place of respite that draws on the detoxing and rituals of the typical Finish sauna.
"We want the sauna pavilion to be a nurturing and relaxing space that provides shade and a sense of intimacy," said JKMM architects. "All within the hustle and bustle of the sweltering expanses of the Playa." Built from dark wooden slats, the sauna will be arranged in a ring-shape around a shaded outdoor yard for users to cool down and relax.

"To take into account the high number of visitors to the sauna, the enfilade approach seemed impractical and we opted for a circulation route that goes around the building," said JKMM Architects.
"This gives guests the opportunity to relive their bathing experience as part of what is intended to feel like a regenerative cycle."

Visitors will enter into a low-lit passage that leads them into the steam room. The curved space will feature wooden benches along the walls and central stove.
After heating up and sweating, users are encourage to move around the ring and find t...