Northern Steam Tuli Model Backyard Sauna in Minnetonka

This is the Tuli model - and it's one of our most popular builds for good reason. Set right in the backyard of a Minnetonka home, this sauna sits under a canopy of mature trees and fits into the landscape like it's always been there. Dark vertical siding, a warm cedar soffit with recessed lighting, and a natural wood entry door. Clean, modern, and completely at home in a wooded Minnesota backyard.

The exterior is only half the story. Step inside and you're surrounded by tongue-and-groove cedar on every surface - walls, ceiling, floor, benches. The Tuli layout gives you tiered bench seating with plenty of room to stretch out, whether you're doing a solo session after work or fitting a few people in for a weekend hang. The large picture window lets in natural light and keeps the space from feeling closed off.

At the center of it all is an IKI electric heater. We spec this unit a lot because it produces soft, even heat and excellent steam without the complexity of a wood-burning setup. You get the full sauna experience - real steam, serious heat - without having to manage a fire. For most homeowners, that convenience matters.

The Tuli continues to be a go-to layout because it hits the right balance. It's not too big, not too small. It functions well as a daily-use sauna and holds up just as well when you're hosting. Built for year-round use in Minnesota, where that's not just a selling point - it's a requirement. We're proud of how this one turned out, and we're grateful to the homeowner for trusting us with the build.