Summary:

I am proposing to reintroduce the tradition of a Finnish native sauna to St. Paul, spread information about the many health benefits and the history associated with it, correct wrong impressions and emphasize the meaning of sauna bathing for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Ideally my vision would utilize the Municipal Grain Terminal or Harriet Island Pavilion because of their proximity to the Mississippi River. These buildings would be ideal for a business geared towards the sauna. Being on the river would allow for bathers to monopolize on the proximity to the water as well as allow patrons to enjoy the view of downtown St. Paul. Other properties within St. Paul could also be renovated to accommodate a sauna.

I would utilize other local resources such as using diseased birch and elm trees to burn as the primary heat source for the saunas. I would use the Mississippi River to generate electricity. If the situation would allow, I would like to have a small café that would promote healthy eating, hydration and emphasize on cuisine native to Finland and Sweden, but sourced from local farms and suppliers.

The idea of a sauna isn’t new but one that is geared towards bringing the community together, especially in the winter when a lot of us feel delegated to our homes to wait out the snowy months. This would be a business that would introduce thousands of people to a pastime that has deep roots in their heritage. Exposing individuals to a way of life that gave their ancestors many years of health and happiness. There are cultural, environmental, historical, and health benefits to introducing this type of business to St. Paul which I believe makes the sauna a very unique idea in many ways.