Wellness isn’t just about diet and exercise, it’s also about relaxing and improving our general well-being. That’s why spa getaways are so popular; as well as a great way to escape and un-wind, they’ll help put you in a calmer state of mind. But a trip to an exclusive hotel or luxury resort is just that - a luxury. So why not create your very own blissful bathroom, where you can relax and rejuvenate every single day?
In this article, we’ll look at seven great ways to achieve a spa-like space at home, that go beyond the scented candles and fluffy towels.
Embrace Space
If your bathroom is on the generous side, embrace it! The luxury of space can give you a huge advantage when designing a wellness area, allowing you to create a room for true relaxation.
This stunning ground floor bathroom is lucky to enjoy large Crittal windows, a high pitched ceiling, huge walk-in shower and a separate free-standing tub. Oh, and before we forget, our Chevron Oak porcelain wood tiles. It feels more like a room for indulgent living rather than merely your morning shower routine.
And while it’s easy to over-design a space like this, balance is key. From the gorgeous flooring to the chandelier, everything is classic rather than OTT - a style that’s emphasised by the black-and-cream walls. A few well-chosen accessories complete the look, enhancing the sense of lavishness usually only experienced at exclusive five star resorts.
Linger for longer
We’ll admit it - the bathroom isn’t the obvious place for a little sit down. But why not turn that unused corner into a cosy reading nook, with an upholstered seat or designer chair? It makes sense - after all, it’s the room where you’re least likely to be disturbed!
And even if you’re not a bibliophile, it’s still a great idea. You can catch up with your partner while they have that long deserved soak or simply relax and wait for the facemask to set. Pampering yourself feels much more decadent when you’re sat in a cosy chair, rather than a cold toilet seat…
Double up
A tried-and-tested way to give your bathroom that spa-like vibe? Invest in twin washbasins. It’s amazing what a transformation two will make - they’re a surefire way to give you a luxurious aesthetic. And better still, there’s no waiting around for your partner to finish before brushing your teeth.
A hot tip from us is to choose sleek and elegant basin units, as shown in the above bathroom. Not only is there less visual distraction, there’s plenty of useful storage. Make sure to transfer any lotions or potions into glass bottles, so there’s less clutter and more consistency. Speaking of consistency, be sure to keep everything else in your room the same. The same mirrors, the same taps and, if you’re lucky enough to have the space, the same his-and-hers shower brassware.
Bring nature inside
Plenty of studies have shown that spending time in nature - and in forests, in particular - has a positive impact on our mental health and wellbeing. Therefore, by bringing natural materials into your home you can replicate these benefits, albeit on a smaller scale. However it’s sure to subliminally boost your positive emotions and state of mind.
As you might expect, it’s not recommended to use natural timber in a steamy, wet environment. However, by using wood effect porcelain tiles you can gain the natural look, without the drawbacks. For a contemporary look, run your tiles planks vertically onto a wall, as shown in the bathroom above. Or for a laid-back Japanese vibe, why not use slatted porcelain decor tiles? Whatever you choose, continue the biophilic theme with some houseplants that don’t just look great, will help purify the air, too.
Focus on curves
If we had it our way, every home would feature a curved ceiling - they’re comforting and cocooning. Exactly what you want from a sanctuary bathroom, in other words.
Unfortunately, the real world gets in the way a little. However, we’re still big believers in embracing the power of the curve in your wetrooms or ensuite; it’s a visual way to soften all the hard materials you traditionally find in bathrooms. Curved bath screens have always been popular, but you could go one-step further and incorporate an arched opening into your shower space, as shown in this minimalist bathroom. More interesting than full-height glass, it defines the showering area and makes your morning drench feel more like a ritual than a routine.
Remain neutral
When it comes to creating a calming scheme, you really can’t look beyond pale neutrals. Shades of white, beige and grey are known to soothe the soul and quieten the mind.
But of course, there’s neutrals and then there’s neutrals and our advice, for what’s it’s worth, is to stay away from the too clinical or too contemporary. Instead, look towards zellige-style tiles; with their deliberate imperfections, tactile finish and undulating glaze, they will shimmer light beautifully throughout your room. Especially if that room is lit by candlelight, while you enjoy a long, deserved soak in the bath.
Lighten the mood
As a functional space, a good bathroom needs decent task lighting. This is usually achieved using overhead spotlights and while they’re very useful, they can sometimes be a little clinical.
So if you’re creating a bathroom that’s more about relaxation and mental harmony, rather than rushing and making do, it pays to invest in atmospheric lighting. Low level lighting is akin to putting night lights around the room, and is a surefire way to bring that spa magic into your own home. There’s a number of ways to achieve this; our favourites are LED strip lights hidden in niches, built-in mirror lighting and simple lamps that gently wash your walls in a warm glow. Be sure to run through your requirements in advance with your builder and electrician as power cables will need to be passed before walls are boarded and tiled.