New Sauna Promises Bathing Atmosphere on Ísafjörður Pier

A new sauna, Bryggjusauna, is set to open on the pier in Ísafjörður, Iceland, thanks to the initiative of two local couples: Elena Dís Víðisdóttir and Gauti Geirsson, and Tinna Rún Snorradóttir and Óli Rafn Kristinsson.

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We are opening a sauna on the old oil pier where ships used to take oil. The location is convenient; close to the town center and the pier.

The sauna building, designed by Finnish architect Tuomas Toivonen, who also runs a sauna in Helsinki, is nearing completion. The design aims to capture a "Scandinavian atmosphere," drawing inspiration from the lively harbor scenes found in cities like Copenhagen. The location on the "old oil pier" is described as convenient, situated near the town center and the harbor, offering a private yet central spot amidst boats and ships.

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We capture this Scandinavian atmosphere, as there is often so much life in harbors, for example in Copenhagen. There we are central but still private and close to yachts and trawlers.

Bryggjusauna will accommodate up to twelve people and includes changing rooms and showers. An outdoor area allows visitors to easily access the cold sea for a refreshing dip after using the sauna. The founders believe it will be a welcome addition to the town's leisure and experience offerings, catering to both residents and tourists.

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It is a twelve-person sauna, plus changing rooms and showers. We also have a good outdoor area, and it is possible to go into the sea. We believe this is a much-needed addition to the entertainment and experience options here in town.

"We wanted to create this bathing atmosphere. It could suit both townspeople and tourists, but the source of the idea is that we ourselves wanted something fun here," said Elena Dís. The architect, Tuomas Toivonen, visited Ísafjörður and was inspired by the town's character, leading to modifications in the building's design. The sauna's placement is also seen as fitting with Ísafjörður's strong tradition of water sports and sailing.

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We thought to ourselves that the sauna would be our way of creating this bathing atmosphere. This could suit both townspeople and tourists, but the source of the idea is that we ourselves wanted something fun here.