Your bathroom should be more than just a functional space: it should be your retreat, a place to unwind, refresh, and feel utterly relaxed. Over the years, I’ve designed many bathrooms for clients, but I truly believe that a spa-like feel shouldn’t be a “luxury”; it’s about creating an environment that makes you feel amazing every day.
Keep It Clutter-Free and Calm
Nothing kills a relaxing atmosphere faster than clutter. I always say that design should bring you joy, not stress! So, make sure to have:
- Smart Storage Solutions: Built-in shelves, floating vanities, and recessed niches help keep everything in place. I like using trays or baskets to group similar items; they look stylish and tidy.
- Daily Decluttering Habits: Countertops should feel clear and intentional. I tuck away everyday essentials in drawers, so I only see the beautiful things, like fresh flowers, a candle, or my favourite scent.
Low-maintenance, High-Style Materials
I love a luxurious bathroom that doesn’t take hours to clean! Here’s what works best:
- Large-format porcelain tiles. They have the elegance of natural stone but are very easy to maintain.
- Quartz countertops. Stunning, durable, and resistant to stains (perfect if you love a beauty routine but hate mess!).
- Matte or brushed metal fixtures. These resist water spots and fingerprints better than polished finishes, so they stay looking gorgeous with minimal effort.
- Hydrophobic shower screens. These are made with a glass coating that repels the water and prevents drip marks. However, after each shower, I also keep a squeegee on hand to remove excess water from my screens and tiles.
- Heated mirrors. The heated elements prevent the mirror from steaming up, meaning no more wet hand marks are left on the mirror after shower time.
Set the Mood with Lighting and Colour
I love layering light in a bathroom; it changes everything!
- Dimmable lighting: Being able to switch between bright light for mornings and a softer glow for evenings makes such a difference.
- Warm, natural tones: You know that I never shy away from colour, but soft, warm shades mixed with wooden accents and greenery can bring that spa-like calm.
- Aromatherapy magic: A diffuser with lavender or eucalyptus oils instantly elevates the atmosphere, and a candle or two never goes amiss during bathtime.
Luxury That’s Practical
Spa-like bathrooms should feel indulgent but still function in real life.
Heated towel racks & underfloor heating: Nothing beats stepping onto warm tiles or wrapping yourself in a toasty towel in winter.
- Plush textiles: Thick, soft towels are a must!
- A rainfall shower or deep soaking tub is an absolute game-changer for turning your bathroom into a self-care haven. Or you could install a hot tub and outdoor shower in your garden for the warmer months in Mallorca; I can personally vouch for this idea!
Bring in the Personal Touches
The best bathrooms reflect you. For me, that means:
- A little seating area: A small stool or bench for skincare routines or simply sitting and taking a moment.
- Plants, always! Ferns, peace lilies, or trailing pothos add that lush, calming feel.
- A dedicated ‘me-time’ corner: A spot for my favourite candles, skincare, bath oils, whatever makes your space feel special.
Creating a bathroom that feels like a sanctuary doesn’t have to be a huge overhaul. Small changes, thoughtful design, and a few indulgent details can turn it into a space where you love to start and end your day.