BATHROOM BUYER’S GUIDE
Prioritise self-care and put pampering on your daily schedule by taking bathroom design inspo from your favourite spa
Spending time at a luxurious spa is mind-soothing, body healing and all-round de-stressing. It’s a place to unwind and let life’s pressures fade away. As visiting one is a treat rather than a regular occurrence for most of us, we must look to try and recapture those benefits of being pampered at home.
There’s a lot you can do to get that five-star spa feel on a DIY budget. A spacious showering area with waterfall showerhead is wonderfully invigorating, while switching out a cramped bath for a generous soaker tub can revolutionise bathtime.
Your choice of materials can also heavily influence the spa mood. ‘Organic textures and colours are often used in spas to calm and simulate a natural environment. Materials like wood and stone are great for making your space feel pure and peaceful,’ says interior designer Annie Haimes. ‘You can also decorate with natural materials – perhaps woven baskets for storage.’ Just add soft lighting, candles, lavender oil and soothing music, and a lock on the door, to complete your serene spa sanctuary.
EMBRACE BIOPHILIA
Left Biophilic design channels the positive influences of nature into our homes. This approach can take the form of living foliage – select plants that thrive in warm, humid conditions, like ferns and aloes – or just colours and patterns inspired by Mother Nature. Green is associated with renewal and energy, as well as its calming qualities, making it an obvious choice for achieving a zen-like atmosphere. ‘Few things ground you more than reconnecting with nature, and tiles decorated with leafy motifs will help bring tranquil tones and patterns to your bathroom,’ says Grazzie Wilson, head of creative at Ca’ Pietra.
Jungle porcelain tiles by Clarissa Hulse, £96.40 per m2, Ca’ Pietra
SOAKING TUB
Take inspiration from Japanese bathing rituals with a statement bath designed to encourage spiritual relaxation and quiet contemplation. ‘Creating a seamless and sophisticated centrepiece, a freestanding bath is the perfect place to lie back and let relaxation wash over you,’ says Ruth Foster, interior designer at Victoria Plum. Seek out a deep-fill design for full immersion and, if possible, do a ‘dry test’ for comfort and fit before you buy. Oval-shaped baths are especially supportive.
Mode Harrison freestanding contemporary bath, £725 for a 1700mm; for a similar vanity unit, try the Mode Burton white & rustic oak wall-hung vanity and basin, from £409.99, Victoria Plum
TAKE TO THE TILES
Left ‘If you are looking to decorate in spa-themed style, choose tiles in muted shades, such as warm caramels, natural and earthy wood hues, pale
