Lithium Crystal Sauna is a public art installation and functioning sauna by Bigert & Bergström located within the WasteLand climate action park in Skellefteå, Sweden. The faceted structure is clad in pink titanium-coated mirror steel shaped after the geometry of a lithium crystal, reflecting the surrounding forest, river and sky. Inside, the sculptural exterior transitions to an interior lined with alder and heartwood pine, with flint, olivine stones, copper, glass and LED elements completing the space. Hexagonal seating continues the crystal-inspired geometry throughout the interior.
The installation is powered by standalone batteries and electric vehicle energy as part of the Vehicle-to-Sauna project developed with Skellefteå Kraft. The system explores vehicle-to-grid technology that enables electric vehicle batteries to supply power to both the sauna and the surrounding park. Installed on a remediated industrial site, the project connects public architecture, renewable energy infrastructure and environmental restoration through a fully operational battery-powered sauna.
Image Credit: Bigert & Bergström
Why This Trend Is Growing
- Energy-positive Wellness
- Battery-powered saunas and spa installations merge relaxation with distributed energy systems, creating new potential for wellness spaces that demonstrate renewable infrastructure in everyday leisure settings.
- Reflective Climate Architecture
- Mirror-clad public structures that blend into forests, rivers and skies point to built environments where art, sustainability and low-impact placemaking become mutually reinforcing.
- Industrial Site Rewilding
- Former industrial landscapes are being reimagined as climate parks and cultural destinations, opening space for restorative experiences that combine remediation, tourism and civic engagement.
Industries Being Reshaped
- Public Art
- Functional installations that operate as both sculpture and infrastructure expand the role of public art into energy education, environmental storytelling and community utility.
- Renewable Energy
- Vehicle-to-grid systems showcased through accessible public amenities make advanced battery technology more visible, relatable and commercially relevant beyond traditional utility contexts.
- Wellness Tourism
- Architectural saunas embedded in restored natural settings elevate destination wellness through immersive design, clean energy narratives and site-specific environmental identity.
