Ulkoamme! Outdoor living is quickly shifting from a trend to a way of life. Especially in northern inspired designs, a popular concept is Ulkoamme, which is derived from Finnish culture. The direct translation is outdoor bathtub, but it connects with a meaning of an outdoor bathing experience and a call to simplicity, calmness, and mindfulness. Ulkoamme is a rustic wooden tub, modern outdoor spa, and everything in between.
By the end of this guide, you will have learned of the trends and inspirations in designs of Ulkoamme, and the role of Pinterest and Eliisa Piirainen’s boards in popularizing this look.
Ulkoamme: The Look & The Meaning
Individually, the Finnish translate as: ‘Ulko’
- Outside ‘Amme’
- Bathtub
As mentioned before, Ulkoamme literally translates to outdoor bathtub, but it is far from just that, The Finnish culture around Ulkoamme embraces a peaceful, bathing, and immersed in nature experience. The experience calls for mindfulness.
The Ulkoamme experience is inspired by the Finnish culture surrounding the sauna and the connection between wellness and the outdoors.
Ulkoamme Experiences Culture
It is no news that bathing outdoors is a culture that has existed for millennia in certain regions of the world, including but not limited to Finland, Sweden, and Japan. The Ulkoamme experience takes inspiration from;
- The palju; a wooden hot tub characteristic of the Finnish
- Outdoor spas and
- Minimalist design
Outdoor baths are not just for relaxation, but have been shown to provide mental clarity, improve well being and aid in stress reduction. Spa design insights state that outdoor warm water combined with the fresh air of the outdoors also improve sleep and relieve muscle tension .
Eliisa Piirainen Board Inspiration from Pinterest
One of the coolest places to find inspiration for Ulkoamme is Pinterest, and even more so for the board created by Eliisa Piirainen,
This board is full of examples such as:
- Rustic outdoor bathtubs surrounded by the forest
- Minimalist tubs on wooden deck
- Luxury outdoor spa setups including lighting
- Nature-integrated bathing spaces
This collection of designs is evidence to the fact that Ulkoamme, besides being functional, is also very aesthetic. The board has a wide variety of options for outdoor bathtubs, the use of natural materials, and calm surroundings.
Types of Ulkoamme (Outdoor Baths)
1. Traditional Wooden Hot Tubs (Palju)
These are classic Finnish-style tubs that are:
- Wood heated
- Made from natural materials
- Suitable for use in cabins and countryside settings
They are easy, inexpensive, and give you a genuine experience.
2. Modern Outdoor Spa Tubs
These tubs are more advanced and have:
- Electric heating
- Massage jets
- Use all year round
They offer a more luxury experience and are just like having a home spa.
3. Minimalist Outdoor Bathtubs
These are perfect for design lovers, as they have:
- Freestanding tubs that are placed outdoor
- Integrated with stone, wood, or greenery.
- Focus on visual aesthetics and relaxation
4. DIY Outdoor Baths
Many people have created their own Ulkoamme design using:
- Converted tubs
- Garden spaces
- Privacy screens along with natural elements.
Benefits of Ulkoamme
1. Deep Relaxation
Remaining warm water helps alleviate tension in the muscles as well as stress.
2. Connection with Nature
Being outside while bathing helps you:
- Sense the fresh breeze
- Enjoy amazing views
- Witness the changes that come with the seasons
3. Enhanced Mental Well-Being
The serene environment kind soothing and lowers anxiety.
4. Social Experience
One of the biggest benefits of outdoor tubs is the ability to share them. Take the gathering outside!
Creating Your Own Ulkoamme
Creating your very own outdoor tub experience is easier than you think! Believe it or not, you don’t need a luxurious villa to enjoy Ulkoamme. Here’s how to do it:
- Location
Your outdoors tub should be in your garden, terrace, rooftop, or backyard. Although all these places work, try to consider privacy while giving the tub a good backdrop.
- The Perfect Tub
For a natural look, a wooden tub would be the perfect fit. Never under-estimate the guise of a spa tub. They can be very comfortable and super convenient.
- The Surroundings
To truly capture the aesthetic of the outdoors tub experience, try planting some greenery, or adding some stones or wooden decking. With the right lighting, your outdoor tub will be all set!
- The Set Up
The weight of water is not a joke! Outdoor tubs can weigh tons when filled with water and just like your tub at home, they need to be set up for a water drainage system and a good, stable ground or platform. Also consider your heating source, whether it be wood or electric. Tub set up is essential!
Pinterest Inspired Ideas
Ulkoamme styles are so versatile and can be found all over Pinterest! Take a look at these ideas.
1. Forest Retreat
For this style, think of the tub sitting right in the middle of the forest, surrounded with natural wood and minimal artificial elements.
2. Scandinavian Minimalism
Keep it sleek! Simple lines and colours. Functional decks.
3. Luxury Outdoor Spa
Add some modern flare with built-in hot tubs with LED lighting and chic seating.
4. Rustic Cabin Style
For this style, capture the old-fashioned, cozy, and traditional spirit. Pair a wooden tub with a log cabin and add a firewood heater to up the old school coziness.
Now to these ideas, Ulkoamme can be so many things, like DIY basic setups to luxurious, high-end spa environments.
Things to Keep in Mind Before the Installation
Budget
We all want the outdoor baths just like the luxurious villa, but we also have to keep in mind the simple, affordable DIY options!
Maintenance
- Water cleaning
- Temperature control
- Material upkeep
Climate
- Cold areas may need insulation
- Hot areas may require shading
Safety
- Non-slip surfaces
- Correct electrical installation for spa tubs
Why Ulkoamme Is Trending
Popularity for Ulkoamme is due to:
- More focus on mental wellness
- More desire for nature-based experiences
- Inspiration from social media, especially Pinterest
- Minimalism and slow living trends
As people spend less time in a fast-paced world, looking for gentle, more meaningful experiences, Ulkoamme is a perfect fit.
FAQs
Q1. What is Ulkoamme in simple terms?
A: An Ulkoamme is an outdoor bath/bathing setup with Nordic-inspired designs
Q2. Is Ulkoamme expensive to build?
A: Not necessarily. It can be a fairly affordable DIY setup, or it can be a pricey luxury spa tub.
Q3. Can I use Ulkoamme in winter?
A: Yes. Most outdoor tubs can be used in freezing weather.
Q4. What materials are best for outdoor baths?
A: Outdoors baths can use a combination of wood, stone and high-grade acrylic.
Q5. Where can I find design ideas for Ulkoamme?
A: Check out Pinterest, especially “Ulkoamme – Outdoor Bath” boards.
Conclusion
Ulkoamme is an outdoor bath and more. Relax, connect with nature, and enjoy the simple things. Inspired by Nordic traditions or the Pinterest modern look, Ulkoamme is a perfect way to disconnect and destress.
With endless online inspiration and ideas from creators like Eliisa Piirainen, the outdoor bathing space of your dreams is just a short step away.
