At the World Sauna Forum, poolbiz.eu sat down with Ivan Sabato, Head of Region, Continental Europe at Harvia, to discuss the company’s heritage, its global reach, and its vision for the future of sauna culture. With operations in more than 100 countries, Harvia has spent decades combining Finnish tradition with modern innovation.
“For me, this anniversary is first of all a moment of pride for the company,” Sabato says. “But also of gratitude, because getting to this point is thanks to the trust of our customers and their loyalty.”
From Craftsmanship to Technology
While Harvia has embraced state-of-the-art production methods, the company remains firmly rooted in the principles of craftsmanship. Sauna heaters are still hand-assembled, and the careful selection and treatment of wood is entrusted to skilled specialists. Sabato describes handcraft as an essential element of Harvia’s identity, adding that even with high levels of automation, the expertise and experience of the craftsmen remain irreplaceable.
The production journey is methodical and precise. It begins with detailed planning and wood selection, continues with precision cutting and assembly, and concludes with rigorous quality control. For custom-built orders, Harvia assembles the sauna entirely in-house for inspection and photography before dismantling and shipping it to the customer. As Sabato puts it, “Every centimeter matters.”
“It’s the silence, the warmth, and the scent of the wood. The feeling you get when you step in—that can’t be replaced by anything else.”
Yvan Sabato
From Products to Complete Solutions
Over the years, Harvia has expanded far beyond its origins as a manufacturer of sauna cabins. The company now offers an integrated range of heaters, control units, infrared solutions, steam rooms, and spa components, all developed to create complete wellness experiences.
Sabato sees this evolution as more than a business strategy. “‘Let’s sauna’ is not only a motto—it’s also a mission,” he explains. “Our goal is to bring sauna to everyone, everywhere, in the way that fits their culture and lifestyle.” He notes that cultural differences shape sauna use in interesting ways. In Finland, the experience is often quiet and centered around the heat, while in the United States, the sauna is more frequently treated as a social space.
Innovation Driving Growth
Technological innovation has played a crucial role in Harvia’s growth in recent years. Smart control systems now allow users to operate heaters remotely, while energy optimization solutions reduce consumption without compromising the sauna experience. The company has even developed solar-powered saunas for regions with abundant sunshine, and most recently, it unveiled a hydrogen-powered prototype in collaboration with Toyota.
Sustainability is embedded in Harvia’s philosophy, with a stated goal of becoming carbon-neutral by 2030. Sabato stresses that responsible sourcing, durable materials, and efficient production methods are not trends but long-term commitments. “Sustainability is an integral part of our philosophy,” he says. “It’s not a trend—it’s a responsibility.”
The Essence of Sauna
For Sabato, a sauna session is about more than simply raising the temperature. “It’s the silence, the warmth, and the scent of the wood,” he says. “The feeling you get when you step in—that can’t be replaced by anything else.” Customers often echo this sentiment, describing their sauna as a personal retreat where they can disconnect from everyday life, recharge, and enjoy time alone or with family and friends.
Global Reach and Local Adaptation
With a presence in over 100 countries, Harvia has learned that while traditions and preferences vary widely, the universal desire for warmth, relaxation, and wellbeing remains constant. The company’s ability to deliver tailored solutions—whether for a compact attic space or a luxury yacht—reflects its understanding of different markets and lifestyles.
Looking Forward
When asked where Harvia will be in ten years, Sabato’s vision is clear. “As the world’s leading provider of holistic wellness, with a focus on quality, sustainability, and innovation,” he says. His wish for the future of sauna culture is equally ambitious: “That more people around the world discover sauna as part of a healthy, conscious lifestyle.”
With its deep heritage, refined design expertise, and forward-thinking approach, Harvia is poised to lead the global sauna industry into its next era—where authenticity, innovation, and wellness converge.
