The shortest barrel in the archive: a one-to-two-person cedar cylinder with a small electric heater. Its curved section warms quickly, making it an easy, economical first sauna for a couple.
Solo and couple use in serviced backyards wanting a quick, low-cost, kit-style barrel.
Best suited for: Couples and solo bathers · Serviced backyards · First-time, budget-minded builders
| Sauna type | Barrel |
|---|---|
| Style | Traditional |
| Setting | Backyard |
| Capacity | 1–2 people (1–2 people) |
| Approx. footprint | 5 × 6 ft (~30 sq ft) |
| Approx. internal volume | 160 ft³ (~4.53 m³) |
| Ceiling-height range | 6–6.3 ft |
| Glazing level | Minimal |
| Insulation class | Lightly Insulated |
| Foundation options | Gravel Base, Skids |
| Roof type | Curved |
| Heating options | Electric |
| Approx. heater class | 4.5–6 kW (electric) |
| Stone-capacity preference | Moderate |
| Ventilation principle | Passive low inlet behind the heater with a small adjustable rear vent |
| Build difficulty | Beginner |
| Maintenance level | Moderate |
All values are approximate reference ranges for planning and comparison.
Final heater selection must follow the heater manufacturer's sizing instructions, safety clearances and local electrical or fire-code requirements.
The smallest barrel in the archive, useful for seeing how length alone changes a barrel’s capacity and heater class. Figures are reference ranges for planning.
One to two, on a short facing-bench pair.
Yes — this reference configuration uses a small electric heater; a wood-fired sibling is catalogued separately.
The short, curved barrel section keeps the air volume small and the surfaces close.
A level gravel pad or skids that keep the cradle stable and off the ground.
Yes — barrel kits are among the most beginner-friendly structures to assemble.
This catalogue profile is intended for preliminary planning and comparison. Final dimensions, structural design, heater selection, electrical work and safety clearances must be confirmed by qualified professionals and the relevant manufacturer documentation.
Added to the catalogue on . Catalogue Editorial Team at Outdoor Sauna Index.
SA-CA-002 · Reference Configuration
SA-CA-024 · Design Profile
SA-CA-013 · Reference Configuration
SA-CA-021 · Reference Configuration
