HOTCOLD DESIGN/BUILD 2026 is a seven-day, full-scale design/build workshop led by Finnish architect and professor Sami Rintala, centered on the collaborative design and construction of a wood-fired group sauna. Coordinated by Justin M. Tucker and hosted at Old Friend Farms in Northwest Arkansas, the workshop brings together architecture students, professionals, and engaged makers to work intensively at 1:1 scale, moving from initial sketches to completed structure. Rooted in Finnish sauna culture and hands-on architectural pedagogy, the experience emphasizes collective design, material craft, and the shaping of light, space, site, sequence, and views to support the rhythms of sauna. As the first in a planned annual series, HOTCOLD DESIGN/BUILD workshop aims to establish a sustained platform for cultural exchange, design/build architecture education, and community-based making in the Ozarks.
Dates: Arrival May 10th - 18th Departure, 2026 (design/build instruction days May 11th-17th) Meals and Accommodations:
● Meals are included from evening May 10th to breakfast May 18th
● Group camping on-site is included and encouraged. Tents and clean sleeping bags available if needed for a small fee. Other area accommodations are available, inquire for suggestions
Participant fee: $2,100* Cohort is limited to 15 participants
*University of Arkansas Student discounts are available by sponsorship from Peter MacKeith, the Honorary Consul of Finland for Arkansas. We are actively working to provide more scholarships and financial assistance for those who need it; Please inquire hotcolddesignbuild@gmail.com Open to Architecture and design students, professionals, creative makers, and sauna enthusiasts.
Application-based entry. Please email hotcolddesignbuild@gmail.com for information. (This ensures a cohesive working collective for a demanding project. However, mindset is valued over preexisting skills)
Appreciation for our Sponsors:
Peter MacKeith, the Honorary Consul of Finland for Arkansas generously provided a new Harvia 20 Pro Wood Burning Sauna Heater as well as financial assistance to lower the workshop cost for multiple University of Arkansas students