
About us and FAQ
Crafting Wellness, One Masterpiece at a Time
At Avantoa, we are more than just builders—we are creators of experiences, dedicated to bringing the timeless traditions of Nordic wellbeing into the modern world. Our team is a collective of world-class architects, designers, craftsmen, and project managers, united by a shared passion for excellence and sustainability. Rooted in the rich cultural heritage of Finland—the happiest country on earth—we bring our expertise to homes across the globe, including California, where innovation meets nature.
Our mission is clear: to craft unique, sustainable, and iconic spaces that elevate your wellbeing. We believe in the power of wood as the ultimate construction material, not just for its beauty, but for its enduring strength and environmental benefits. Every Avantoa sauna is a testament to this philosophy, built with rigorous attention to detail and an unwavering commitment to quality.
On this page, you'll meet the visionary minds behind Avantoa—our architect and head of construction—who will guide you through the groundbreaking methods and philosophies that make each Avantoa sauna a generational masterpiece. With their expertise, we transform raw timber into sanctuaries of wellness, designed to last and inspire for generations to come.
Join us on our journey to redefine luxury wellness, one exquisite sauna at a time.
What happens after I place order?
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Once you place your order, our journey together begins with a personalized consultation.
Our team will work closely with you to finalize the design details, ensuring that your sauna meets your exact specifications and complements your space perfectly. We’ll discuss everything from layout preferences to material choices, making sure every element aligns with your vision. This step requires a $5000 reservation fee.
AVANTOA is designed to perfection so we don’t accept major modifications or changes to our design, besides options we offer, for sustainability and manufacturing reasons.
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After our initial meeting, we take the lead in handling all ADU-related permits, ensuring that every regulation is meticulously followed. With the legalities managed, our skilled craftsmen in Finland will begin the meticulous process of bringing your sauna to life. During this phase, you and your family are welcome to visit our factory—a unique experience where you can witness the craftsmanship firsthand. We offer this visit at a cost, but rest assured, you’ll receive first-class, white-glove service throughout. As your sauna is being crafted, we maintain rigorous quality checks to ensure it meets the highest standards of durability and aesthetics.
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Before shipping begins, we’ll contact you to handle all necessary shipping and customs filings, providing you with an estimated time window for your sauna's arrival. Once your sauna reaches its destination, our team will coordinate with you to set up a final delivery date. On the day of installation, our professional team will install the sauna at your location, giving you a full tour and training session to ensure you’re fully initiated into the Healthy Finnish Sauna Tribe.
Post-installation, our team will be available 24/7 to address any needs or questions you may have. AVANTOA saunas come with a 5-year warranty, and we offer an annual maintenance service for $495/year to keep your sauna in peak condition.
FAQs
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CLT, which stands for Cross-Laminated Timber, is an engineered wood product consisting of layers of kiln-dried lumber arranged at right angles and bonded together to form structural panels. This cross-lamination technique provides CLT with exceptional strength and rigidity, making it an ideal material for constructing high-quality, sustainable buildings, including Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs).
CLT is likely the best possible way to build an ADU in California due to several key benefits:
Sustainability: CLT is made from renewable wood, storing carbon and contributing to lower greenhouse gas emissions, aligning perfectly with California's environmental goals.
Easier Onsite Delivery: CLT panels are prefabricated, making them easier to transport and handle on-site.
Faster Installation: The prefabricated nature of CLT allows for quicker assembly, reducing construction time significantly.
Cleaner, Drier Construction Site: With most of the construction happening off-site, CLT results in less disruption and a cleaner work environment.
No Specialized Construction Experience Needed: CLT's straightforward assembly process means it doesn't require specialized skills, making it easier to build with.
Less Expensive Foundation: Thanks to its lighter weight, CLT structures require less costly foundations.
Reduced Waste: Prefabrication leads to more efficient use of materials, minimizing waste.
Fire-Resistant Wood Construction: CLT's solid mass provides inherent fire resistance, making it a safer option for building.
Given these benefits, CLT is particularly well-suited for California’s unique challenges, including seismic activity and strict environmental regulations. It’s a material that not only meets the high standards of durability and safety but also aligns with a commitment to sustainable living.
For more in-depth information, you can read further here.
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The cost of an Avantoa sauna varies depending on the model and any customization options you choose.
Our saunas are crafted to the highest standards of quality and sustainability, and this is reflected in the price. Generally, prices start from 100k going up to 400k depending, with more expansive models or additional customizations increasing the overall cost.
When you invest in an Avantoa sauna, you're not just purchasing a wellness product—you're acquiring a piece of fine craftsmanship that is built to last, offering both immediate benefits and long-term value. To get a precise estimate tailored to your specific needs and location, we recommend contacting our team for a detailed consultation. We’ll provide you with a clear, transparent quote that includes all associated costs, from design and manufacturing to delivery and installation.
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The combination of sauna and cold plunge offers a wealth of health benefits, making it a powerful ritual to incorporate into your daily life. This practice, known as thermal contrast therapy, involves alternating between the heat of the sauna and the cold of the plunge, which can have profound effects on your body and mind. Here are some of the key benefits:
Helps You Adapt and Become Stronger (Hormesis): The controlled stress from heat and cold exposure helps your body adapt, making you more resilient and stronger over time.
Increases Blood Flow: The alternating temperatures promote healthy circulation, improving blood flow throughout your body.
Improves Immune Function: Regular use of sauna and cold plunge can boost your immune system, helping you fight off illnesses more effectively.
Burns Fat and Helps You Lose Weight: The intense heat from the sauna can increase your metabolism, while cold exposure can activate brown fat, both contributing to weight loss.
Helps You Reduce Stress: The deep relaxation induced by the sauna, followed by the invigorating cold plunge, significantly lowers stress levels.
Increases Energy Levels: The contrast between heat and cold rejuvenates your body, giving you an energy boost that lasts throughout the day.
Boosts Your Mood: Endorphins released during sauna sessions elevate your mood, while the cold plunge further sharpens your mental clarity.
Improves Sleep: Regular sauna use helps regulate your sleep patterns, promoting deeper, more restful sleep.
Incorporating this routine into your life not only enhances physical health but also contributes to overall wellbeing, making you feel more balanced, energized, and resilient. It’s a ritual that can transform your approach to health, offering benefits that extend far beyond the sauna room.
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An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a smaller, independent residential structure that is located on the same lot as a primary home. ADUs are often used as guest houses, rental units, or, in the case of Avantoa’s saunas, as dedicated wellness spaces. In California, where housing regulations are evolving to encourage more efficient use of residential land, ADUs have become increasingly popular and offer several advantages for homeowners.
For homeowners in California, an ADU presents a unique opportunity to enhance the value and functionality of your property. Not only do ADUs provide additional living space or rental income, but they also contribute to the overall appeal of your home. Specifically, when you choose an Avantoa sauna as an ADU, you’re adding a luxurious, private wellness retreat that can significantly improve your quality of life.
Advantages of an ADU for California Homeowners:
1. Increased Property Value: Adding an ADU to your property can significantly increase its market value. Whether you plan to sell your home in the future or simply want to boost its equity, an ADU is a valuable investment.
2. Potential Rental Income: Many California homeowners use ADUs as rental units, providing a steady stream of additional income. With the high demand for housing in many parts of the state, renting out an ADU can be a lucrative option.
3. Flexibility and Versatility: An ADU can serve multiple purposes over time. It can be used as a guest house, a home office, a wellness space, or even a place for aging family members to live independently while staying close by.
4. Compliance with Local Regulations: In California, ADUs are subject to specific zoning laws and building codes. The state has implemented several legislative measures to make it easier for homeowners to add ADUs to their properties, including streamlined permitting processes and reduced fees. At Avantoa, we handle all the necessary permits and ensure that your sauna ADU complies with these regulations, so you can enjoy peace of mind throughout the installation process.
5. Environmental Benefits: An ADU built with sustainable materials like Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) aligns with California’s environmental goals, offering an eco-friendly addition to your property. Avantoa saunas are designed with sustainability in mind, making them a responsible choice for homeowners who care about reducing their environmental impact.
Why Choose an Avantoa Sauna as Your ADU?
By choosing an Avantoa sauna as your ADU, you’re not just adding another building to your property—you’re creating a sanctuary for health, relaxation, and wellbeing. Our saunas are meticulously crafted to provide a luxurious experience, combining the best of Finnish tradition with modern design. As an ADU, an Avantoa sauna offers a unique and enriching addition to your home, enhancing both your lifestyle and your property’s value.
Whether you’re looking to create a private retreat for yourself or add a versatile, income-generating space to your property, an ADU in the form of an Avantoa sauna is an excellent choice. Let us help you navigate the process from start to finish, ensuring that your ADU not only meets but exceeds your expectations.and offer several advantages for homeowners.
For homeowners in California, an ADU presents a unique opportunity to enhance the value and functionality of your property. Not only do ADUs provide additional living space or rental income, but they also contribute to the overall appeal of your home. Specifically, when you choose an Avantoa sauna as an ADU, you’re adding a luxurious, private wellness retreat that can significantly improve your quality of life.
Advantages of an ADU for California Homeowners:
1. Increased Property Value: Adding an ADU to your property can significantly increase its market value. Whether you plan to sell your home in the future or simply want to boost its equity, an ADU is a valuable investment.
2. Potential Rental Income: Many California homeowners use ADUs as rental units, providing a steady stream of additional income. With the high demand for housing in many parts of the state, renting out an ADU can be a lucrative option.
3. Flexibility and Versatility: An ADU can serve multiple purposes over time. It can be used as a guest house, a home office, a wellness space, or even a place for aging family members to live independently while staying close by.
4. Compliance with Local Regulations: In California, ADUs are subject to specific zoning laws and building codes. The state has implemented several legislative measures to make it easier for homeowners to add ADUs to their properties, including streamlined permitting processes and reduced fees. At Avantoa, we handle all the necessary permits and ensure that your sauna ADU complies with these regulations, so you can enjoy peace of mind throughout the installation process.
5. Environmental Benefits: An ADU built with sustainable materials like Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) aligns with California’s environmental goals, offering an eco-friendly addition to your property. Avantoa saunas are designed with sustainability in mind, making them a responsible choice for homeowners who care about reducing their environmental impact.
Why Choose an Avantoa Sauna as Your ADU?
By choosing an Avantoa sauna as your ADU, you’re not just adding another building to your property—you’re creating a sanctuary for health, relaxation, and wellbeing. Our saunas are meticulously crafted to provide a luxurious experience, combining the best of Finnish tradition with modern design. As an ADU, an Avantoa sauna offers a unique and enriching addition to your home, enhancing both your lifestyle and your property’s value.
Whether you’re looking to create a private retreat for yourself or add a versatile, income-generating space to your property, an ADU in the form of an Avantoa sauna is an excellent choice. Let us help you navigate the process from start to finish, ensuring that your ADU not only meets but exceeds your expectations.
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Typically, the process from order to installation takes around 3 to 6 months. This includes the design finalization, permit acquisition, manufacturing, and delivery phases. Our team will keep you updated throughout the entire process to ensure a smooth and timely installation.
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Yes, we offer our customers the opportunity to visit our factory in Finland to witness the craftsmanship and precision that goes into each Avantoa sauna. This is a unique experience that includes first-class service. There is an associated cost, but it’s a memorable visit where you can see your sauna being crafted firsthand.
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While our saunas are designed to perfection with a focus on sustainability and efficiency, we do offer some customization options. During your initial consultation, we’ll discuss the available choices to tailor the sauna to your specific needs.
Please note that major structural modifications are not typically allowed to maintain the integrity of our design and manufacturing process.
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CLT is particularly well-suited for California due to its seismic durability, fire resistance, and sustainability. It’s a lightweight yet strong material, which is essential for earthquake-prone areas like California. Additionally, CLT’s eco-friendly nature aligns perfectly with California’s strict environmental regulations and commitment to sustainability.
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Yes, we welcome you to visit and experience an Avantoa sauna firsthand. Seeing the sauna in person allows you to truly appreciate the quality of craftsmanship and the serene ambiance it creates. Contact us to arrange a visit at a location near you.
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Yes, all Avantoa saunas come with a 5-year warranty. This warranty covers any defects in materials or craftsmanship. Additionally, we offer an annual maintenance service for $495/year to keep your sauna in optimal condition.
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Before delivery, we’ll coordinate with you to manage all necessary shipping and customs filings. Once your sauna arrives, our team will handle the installation, provide you with a full tour of its features, and give a training session on maintenance. After installation, our team is available 24/7 to address any questions or concerns you might have.
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Yes, we do! Avantoa has a dedicated team based in California to ensure that our clients receive personalized and responsive service. Our local representatives are available to assist you with everything from initial consultations to installation and ongoing support. Whether you have questions about our saunas, need help with permits, or want to arrange a visit to see one of our models in person, our California team is here to provide expert guidance every step of the way.
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At the heart of every Avantoa sauna lies the essence of Finnish tradition and craftsmanship, perfectly embodied by the Helo Rondo 9.6kW heater. Helo, a name synonymous with the authentic sauna experience, has been a cornerstone of Finnish wellbeing for over a century. With more than 100 years of experience, 48 dealers worldwide, and over a million saunas installed, Helo’s dedication to quality and innovation has made it a global leader in sauna technology. This rich heritage aligns seamlessly with Avantoa’s commitment to delivering an unparalleled wellness experience rooted in the timeless traditions of Finland.
The Helo Rondo heater is a marvel of design and functionality, offering a unique blend of traditional sauna warmth and modern convenience. Its round, "ready-to-use" design, coupled with a 360-degree rotating lid, sets it apart from any other heater on the market. The Rondo’s massive 100 kg stone capacity ensures a gentle, enveloping heat that is perfect for creating the moist, soothing environment that defines the Finnish sauna experience. Whether you’re seeking a moment of quiet reflection or a place to unwind with friends, the Rondo heater ensures that your sauna session is always ready when you are, without the need for preheating.
Beyond its innovative design, the Rondo heater is engineered for efficiency and safety. Its optimized insulation shell effectively retains heat, allowing for consistent, even warmth throughout the sauna. The heater’s surface remains relatively cool to the touch, providing flexibility in placement within the sauna and minimizing the need for extensive protective measures. This attention to detail in both design and safety ensures that your Avantoa sauna is not only a luxurious retreat but also a safe and efficient space for daily use.
While we proudly feature the Helo Rondo heater in our saunas, we understand that personal preferences vary. With so many exceptional heaters coming from Finland, we offer the flexibility to customize your Avantoa sauna to suit your specific needs and tastes. This adaptability ensures that every Avantoa sauna is a true reflection of its owner’s desires, providing a personalized wellness experience that combines the best of tradition, innovation, and luxury.
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While we proudly feature the Helo Rondo heater in our saunas, we understand that personal preferences vary.
With so many exceptional heaters coming from Finland, we offer the flexibility to customize your Avantoa sauna to suit your specific needs and tastes.
This adaptability ensures that every Avantoa sauna is a true reflection of its owner’s desires, providing a personalized wellness experience that combines the best of tradition, innovation, and luxury. -
At Avantoa, we understand that the benefits of cold immersion are as vital as the warmth of the sauna in the Nordic tradition. To bring this experience to your home, we’ve partnered with a leading Finnish company known for its state-of-the-art cold pool technology. This collaboration allows us to offer a meticulously designed cold plunge that integrates seamlessly with our saunas, delivering a complete and authentic wellness experience.
Our cold plunge pools are designed with both professionals and wellness enthusiasts in mind, offering a perfect balance between functionality and ease of use. The compact yet spacious design allows for a full-body immersion, ensuring that you can enjoy the invigorating benefits of cold therapy in the comfort of your home. The pool's external cooling and heating unit maintains your desired water temperature with precision, ranging from as low as +4 °C to as high as 40 °C, allowing you to tailor your cold plunge sessions to your personal preferences.
What sets our cold plunge apart is its technology and energy efficiency. The pool’s insulated design minimizes energy consumption, while the optional insulated cover further enhances its efficiency. The water is continuously circulated, ensuring cleanliness and reducing the need for frequent water changes. With simple controls and a user-friendly interface, you can easily adjust the temperature and timing to fit your schedule, making it a practical addition to your wellness routine.
Our cold plunge pools are not just about convenience—they’re about delivering a deeply rejuvenating experience that complements the restorative heat of the sauna. Whether you’re looking to enhance recovery after a workout, boost circulation, or simply enjoy the invigorating effects of cold immersion, our cold plunge pools are designed to meet your needs. At Avantoa, we’re committed to offering the highest quality wellness solutions, combining cutting-edge technology with timeless design to bring the best of Finnish tradition into your home.
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The tradition of alternating between a hot sauna and a cold plunge is deeply rooted in Finnish culture, a practice that has been cherished for centuries. Known as "sauna and ice hole," this ritual involves heating the body in the sauna, followed by a brisk plunge into an icy lake or snow. This back-and-forth experience stimulates circulation, boosts the immune system, and invigorates the mind, creating a profound sense of rejuvenation. The contrast between the intense heat and the refreshing cold shocks the body into a state of heightened alertness and relaxation, leaving you feeling revitalized and deeply connected to nature.
Scientific research has increasingly supported the health benefits of alternating between hot sauna sessions and cold plunges, a practice long embraced by the Finnish culture. This thermal contrast therapy is shown to improve cardiovascular health, enhance immune function, and even contribute to longevity. Studies have demonstrated that the intense heat from saunas dilates blood vessels, improving circulation and reducing blood pressure, while the subsequent cold exposure constricts vessels, stimulating blood flow to vital organs.
One key benefit is the activation of heat shock and cold shock proteins, which help protect cells from stress and promote cellular repair. These proteins are believed to play a role in reducing inflammation and improving the body’s resilience to various stressors, potentially leading to increased longevity. Moreover, regular sauna use has been linked to a reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases and overall mortality, as highlighted in studies conducted by Dr. Jari Laukkanen, a leading Finnish researcher in cardiovascular health.
The combination of sauna and cold plunge also stimulates the production of norepinephrine, a hormone that enhances focus and energy levels while reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. This practice not only promotes physical health but also supports mental wellbeing, contributing to a balanced and resilient lifestyle.
The Visionary Architect Behind Avantoa's Innovative Saunas: Kivi Sotamaa
Kivi Sotamaa is an internationally renowned architect and designer whose work continues to redefine the boundaries of modern architecture. With a career that spans over two decades and countless prestigious awards, Sotamaa has left an indelible mark on the world of design. His tenure as a professor of architecture at UCLA for over a decade shaped the next generation of architects while cementing his reputation as a thought leader in the field. Throughout his illustrious career, Kivi has collaborated with some of the world’s most legendary architects, always pushing the envelope with his daring and innovative concepts.
Known for his ability to blend art with functionality, Kivi's designs challenge traditional notions of space and form. His work captivates not only for its visual beauty but also for its thoughtful craftsmanship and attention to detail. Every project he undertakes is a harmonious fusion of aesthetic and practical brilliance, where bold vision meets meticulous execution.
At Avantoa, Kivi brings his unique vision to the design of our luxurious saunas, ensuring that each structure is not just a product, but an experience. His designs reflect a deep respect for craftsmanship and nature, creating saunas that are as visually stunning as they are functional. By integrating modern innovation with age-old traditions, Kivi Sotamaa is elevating the sauna experience, setting new standards for luxury and sustainability.
Explore more of Kivi’s groundbreaking work through Atelje Sotamaa and discover our latest case stydy, unique sauna project with Avantoa.

Limited Edition. Secure Your Spot Today.
We’re producing only a select number of cabins, ensuring each one meets our exacting standards of quality and craftsmanship. To guarantee exceptional customer satisfaction, availability is limited. Don’t miss your chance—join the waitlist now.
Meet Jonathan Carle: Master Craftsman and Builder of Avantoa's Luxurious Saunas
Jonathan Carle is a rare talent in the world of craftsmanship, a master who has honed his skills through a unique blend of French tradition and Finnish innovation. Trained by the Compagnons Charpentiers Des Devoirs, the prestigious guild that dates back to the 14th century, Jonathan’s path to mastery was anything but ordinary. He spent six years in this UNESCO-recognized program, which is considered one of the most rigorous and respected forms of training in traditional craftsmanship. From apprentice to journeyman and finally to master, Jonathan not only mastered the ancient techniques of woodwork but also taught new generations of craftsmen.
His journey took him across France, living in different cities, working long hours, and spending evenings in intensive study. He learned to work exclusively by hand, as even architectural drawings had to be meticulously crafted without the aid of machines. Of the 180 students who began this grueling path with him, only 18 completed the journey to become master craftsmen.
Although Jonathan was once invited to join the restoration team for Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris, a project known for its legendary use of timber framing techniques, he chose a different path. His love for Finland, a land of forests and woodcraft, led him to bring this 2,000-year-old building tradition to Northern Europe. Jonathan now blends the heritage of French woodworking with the innovative use of CLT (cross-laminated timber) to create Avantoa’s luxurious, eco-friendly saunas.
His meticulous attention to detail, rooted in ancient craftsmanship, ensures that every Avantoa sauna is a masterpiece of precision and artistry. Jonathan’s unique experience across France and Finland allows him to offer a level of craftsmanship that is rarely seen in today’s world, making each Avantoa sauna a testament to tradition, innovation, and the pursuit of excellence.
Jonathan is founder and CEO of Vivaret, learn more here.
