Spa like small bathroom ideas
40 Spa Bathroom Ideas for Your Home
Pamper yourself at home with these luxurious spa bathroom ideas
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Is your bathroom feeling a little drab? Are you craving a tranquil space to escape to at the end of each day? Maybe it’s time to elevate your primary, full, or half-bath into the ultimate home oasis.
In this article, we’ve put together 40 spa bathroom ideas to help you dream up the ultimate space for leisure in your home. With these design tips and mood-setting pieces of advice, along with some help from a kitchen and bath remodeling company, you’ll be relaxing in luxury in no time.
Plus, we’ve included a few DIY printables to make at-home luxury easier so you don’t need to pay a visit to the spa.
1. Paint the Walls White
Photo: Sidekix Media / Unsplash
Spas are often designed with lots of white because it’s a clean-looking, neutral color. Hire a professional interior painting company to coat your walls in a fresh off-white or cream color for maximum brightness and airiness.
2. Accent the Space With Neutral Colors
Photo: PC Photography / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images
When choosing your accent colors, light neutrals such as warm gray, beige, taupe, and brown are all great options that pair well with white and add to the airiness and spa-like design of the space.
3. Install a Luxurious Tub
Photo: alvarez / E+ / Getty Images
A large, luxurious bathtub is not only a statement piece in a spa-like bathroom, but it will also help you soak and unwind after a long day. Consider a jetted tub or freestanding clawfoot tub that complements the rest of your room. If your current tub needs a revamp, you can also hire a bathtub refinishing company to bring back its shine.
4. Place Large Mirrors
Photo: PC Photography / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images
If you want to make a small bathroom feel bigger, mirrors are a must. A large floor or wall mirror will help open up the space and create the illusion of more room.
5. Choose Minimal Drawers
Photo: CreativaStudio / E+ / Getty Images
To add to the minimal look while opening up the space, choose under-cabinet drawers with clean lines and inset pulls.
6. Put Up Floating Shelves
Shelves are a must for all your spa essentials. Even in a small space, floating shelves can create a minimal and trendy look. You can display items like soaps, towels, and artistic sculptures on your floating shelves.
An accent wall is a great spa-like bathroom idea that can add interest and personality to your home. There are lots of wall painting ideas to consider, such as a dreamy blue wall that complements the space or a floral pattern for a lush look.
8. Install a Shower Niche
Photo: jodiejohnson / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images
A recessed shower niche is a convenient place to store all your shower essentials. No more fumbling for your shampoo and conditioner—with this feature, your products will be easily in reach, and your shower will feel a little more upscale.
9. Pick One Bold Color
Photo: tulcarion / E+ / Getty Images
If all neutral isn’t your thing, pick one bold color to help accent the space and make it pop. A saturated blue for an ocean feel, a rich green to remind you of a forest or a charcoal black for dark sophistication are all great choices.
10. Include a Bidet
Nothing makes a bathroom lavish quite like a bidet. Thankfully, it’s easier than ever to install one as an attachment on your toilet.
11. Get a Glass Shower
Photo: Artazum / Shutterstock
Not only does a glass shower look fancy and modern, but it also helps open up the space and makes a smaller bathroom appear larger.
12. Hang Wall Art
Photo: Rakic / Shutterstock
Photo: Mallmo / Shutterstock
Download Printables HereWall art can give your spa-like bathroom a personalized feel. For a more relaxing design, choose soothing Images and patterns, such as water or leaves. Or, print out and frame these thematic spa wall art printables below.
13. Add Excitement With Vibrant Floor Tile
A spa bathroom doesn’t have to look sterile and boring. A tile installing company can add a pop of color with a patterned floor tile that brightens up the room.
14. Control the Lighting With a Dimmer
Set the mood and create the perfect atmosphere for relaxation with a light dimmer. With a remote-controlled dimmer, you can adjust the lighting settings straight from the tub. It can help to set a lower light in the evening when you’re looking to relax.
15. Channel Nature With Plants
Photo: New Africa / Shutterstock
Plants help a spa bathroom feel more lush. Some plants that thrive in the moisture of the bathroom include ferns, peace lilies, orchids, spider plants, and bamboo.
16. Heat the Floor
One truly luxurious spa feature is heated floor tile. Not only does this upgrade add value to your home, but it can also be temperature-controlled to your liking.
17. Have Candles Ready
Photo: July Prokopiv / Shutterstock
Download Printable HereLighting candles can help bring your spa room to the next level. Choose soothing scents you love, like lavender, and light several around the room while you pamper yourself. You can also print out these punny candle labels to delight your guests and remind them to take it easy.
18. Diffuse Soothing Scents
Photo: New Africa / Shutterstock
A reed aromatherapy diffuser or essential oils are more ways to fill the room with a pleasant aroma. Just make sure not to overdo it. The scents should be subtle and refreshing, not overpowering. Some ideas include jasmine, vanilla, and rosemary.
19. Include a Rain Shower
Photo: surachetsh / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images
Installing a rain showerhead will make you feel like you’re bathing under a waterfall. These showerheads are trendy, modern, and help provide full coverage when you’re washing off your worries at the end of the day.
20. Decorate With Bamboo
Bamboo details make a bathroom look and feel closer to nature and therefore, more relaxing. A bamboo mat, furniture, and bamboo plants can all help achieve this look.
21. Don’t Forget a Bathtub Caddy
Photo: New Africa / Shutterstock
Treat yourself with a convenient bathtub caddy to hold candles, snacks, and reading material to keep you entertained while you’re soaking in the tub.
22. Go for Gold Accents
Photo: Shawn Goldberg / Shutterstock
If you want a more opulent look in your bathroom, consider adding gold accents. Gold-colored hardware, faucets, and soap holders will elevate the space to a whole new level of luxury.
23. Buy Pampering Towels
Photo: Hxdbzxy / Shutterstock
To help add to the spa atmosphere, invest in high-quality, plush towels like those you would find at a spa or five-star hotel. Opt for soft cotton with a high thread count for the softest, most absorbent towels.
24. Declutter the Space
It’s easy to let your bathroom countertops get messy with daily use, but keeping your spa bathroom decluttered will maintain a relaxing mood. To help, you can hire a professional home organizing company near you.
25. Keep It Fresh
Similarly, it’s important to keep your bathroom clean and fresh if you want it to continuously feel like an oasis. Hire a professional cleaning service to take the stress off your plate.
26. Opt for Wooden Accents
Photo: CreativaStudio / E+ / Getty Images
Wooden furniture, cabinets, and other accents can help make the space feel more like home. You can even use reclaimed wood for more sustainable spa bathroom decor.
27. Have a Sound System
Photo: Gabort71 / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images
Install speakers in the wall or buy a high-quality speaker to play relaxing meditation music or ambient sounds in your at-home spa.
28. Think of Calming Colors
Photo: Myboys.me / Shutterstock
Some commonly used colors in bathrooms include light blue and green because they remind us of nature and add to a calming atmosphere.
29. Hide the Essentials
Photo: Kostikova / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images
The less aesthetically pleasing bathroom products, like toothpaste and skincare products, can be hidden away in a drawer or medicine cabinet and retrieved when needed.
30. Add to the Atmosphere With Sheer Curtains
Photo: PaulMaguire / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images
If you have a large window in your bathroom that requires a curtain, opt for sheer fabric. Sheer curtains are light and graceful, so they’ll add to the serene interior design.
Photo: Tulcarion / E+ / Getty Images
Minimalist interior design is characterized by focusing on the essentials with clean lines, monochrome palettes, and airy simplicity. To create a minimalist spa bathroom, look for inspiration online or hire an interior design company to help.
Don’t let others in the house disrupt your relaxation time in your new spa bathroom. Hang a “do not disturb” sign on the door handle to politely let your family members know that you’re busy unwinding with some self-care.
33. Have Pampering Products at the Ready
Photo: whyframestudio / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images
A shelf that displays your favorite pampering products, such as sweet-smelling lotions and body oils, will make your room look even more like a spa.
34. Make DIY Face Masks
Photo: Prostock-Studio / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images
Download Printable HereEnjoy an at-home spa day in your new space with a bath bomb, salt soak, hair mask, manicure, or face mask. Print out the recipe page below and try out some of these common DIY face mask recipes.
35. Let in Lots of Natural Light
Photo: Photographee.eu / Shutterstock
It’s no secret that natural light can lift your spirits and make a space look all the more inviting. Make sure your space has clear windows that let you soak up all the sun. If you want even more natural light, install a skylight.
36. Make Stylish Accessory Swaps
Photo: Liudmila Chernetska / iStock / Getty Images
It may seem like a small change, but swapping out plastic soap and lotion dispensers with glass ones will make the room look much more sophisticated.
37. Keep Cotton Robes Nearby
Photo: Dmitriy Galaganov / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images
Find a soft, cotton robe that you love and have several at the ready in your spa bathroom. After your bath routine, you’ll be able to snuggle up in a soft, cloud-like robe.
38. Hang a Chandelier
Photo: Photographee.eu / Shutterstock
An ornate, sparkling chandelier makes an excellent statement piece for a large, primary bathroom. Don’t overlook a little extravagance with details like this in your bathroom remodel.
39. Make It All Marble
Photo: Joe Hendrickson / Shutterstock
Marble countertops, slabs, and tile all add a feeling of splendor and tranquility to a space. Marble details in your bathroom will make it feel like a leisurely getaway.
40. Create a Stone Accent Wall
Photo: Krista Abel / Shutterstock
A stone accent wall that lines the shower (or one entire side of the bathroom) will make the room look at one with nature and all the more luxe.
To help bring your at-home spa bathroom to life, reach out to an interior designer near you who can design the perfect space for your home.
25 Ideas to Transform Your Bathroom Into a Spa
Introduction
Here's how to bring the feeling of being at a spa into your own home.
By
Kaitlyn McInnis
Kaitlyn McInnis
Kaitlyn McInnis is a lifestyle expert and writer specializing in global interior design trends and styles which she is able to experience first-hand through her extensive travels. Her work has appeared in Travel + Leisure, Forbes, Homes & Gardens, and Real Homes. Kaitlyn also worked for AskMen.com, where she managed an international team of writers and experts.
Learn more about The Spruce's Editorial Process
Updated on 01/25/22
The Spruce / Christopher Lee Foto
There’s nothing that compares to coming home to relax after a long day of running around—especially when your relaxation routine involves soaking in your tub with a nice drink, some candles, and a spa-inspired album playing softly in the background.
Wondering how to achieve that level of relaxation—even in a small or uninspired bathroom? The key is knowing what, exactly you need to add or remove in order to achieve that coveted spa-like atmosphere.
Whether you’re hoping to turn your bathroom into your own little oasis or you just want to make a couple changes to make it more welcoming, these tricks from home experts will transform your bathroom and make everyday a spa day.
Meet the Expert
- Mona Ying Reeves is Founder/Designer of Re:modern, an interior design company.
- Andre Kazimierski is CEO of Improovy, a home services website.
- Karen Lee is the Founder of Things Around the House, a website reviewing home products.
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01 of 25
Bring in a Bathtub Caddy
A Beautiful Mess
If you currently have a bathtub sans caddy, you’re missing out on some serious spa vibes. This simple addition makes a big impression and it comes in a variety of styles—from reclaimed wood to lucite—so you’ll have no trouble finding one to suit your style sensibility.
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02 of 25
Make Magic With Shelving
Jay Adores
Shelving is a small space dweller’s best friend, especially when it comes to the organizational challenge that is a small bathroom. Install a few tiers of open-shelving on your walls, add a few baskets for towels, fancy soaps, and a decorative accent or two and voila! Instant spa retreat.
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03 of 25
Add Some Artwork
Marcus Design
Just as artwork makes a living room or bedroom design more dynamic, it does the same for a bathroom. Integrating a large print or a gallery wall will add a dimensional layer of intrigue to your design while making it appear more complete and welcoming.
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04 of 25
Go for All-White
@celine_ord
“Creating a spa-like experience starts with the color scheme,” says Andre Kazimierski, CEO of Improovy. “Spas are meant to exude cleanliness, brightness and purity, so it’s best to go white.” Paint your walls white or a warm off-white, and choose tiles and cabinets that are a similar white. Even your towels should be white!
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05 of 25
Dispose of Old Dispensers
Sire Design
If you pour your soaps, shampoos, lotions, and potions into their own set of cohesive dispensers, you’ll be amazed by just how much it transforms your look. This trick packs a major design punch and is a breeze to execute.
Here Are the Best Places to Buy Bathroom Accessories
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06 of 25
Add Gold Accents
@gatheringwool.home
For a luxurious feel, Kazimierski suggests trying to incorporate gold accents throughout the bathroom—cabinet handles, soap dispenser, mirror frame, towel rack, etc. This will add a touch of sophistication and luxury without giving off Hollywood Regency vibes.
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07 of 25
Invest in Fancy Towels
Design by Emily Henderson Design / Photographer by Tessa Neustadt
If you’re working with a small bathroom, then chances are your towels are always visible, which essentially makes them built-in decor whether you like it or not. That’s why investing in at least one pair of nice-looking towels can upgrade your space tenfold, ensuring they look intentional rather than messy.
The 10 Best Bath Towels of 2022, Tested and Reviewed
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08 of 25
Consider Adding Some Plants
@celine_ord
Most spas typically have an inherently earthy/natural feel—so add some plants! A hanging plant near a window can really elevate the space but if you don’t have a window in your bathroom you could opt for a spider plant or a Boston fern (both of which thrive in low light settings).
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09 of 25
Consider Candles
Brexton Cole Interiors
Don’t overlook the power of lighting when creating a relaxing ambiance in your home spa! Candles will immediately enhance the mood, allowing you to destress after a long day.
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10 of 25
Reduce Visual Clutter
@rarchitecture_melbourne
Bathrooms, especially small and modest-sized ones, can get cluttered with everyday products. “Create the illusion of a spacious sanctuary by corralling products behind doors and bins,” suggests Mona Ying Reeves, Founder/Designer of Re:modern. “Look for containers with a clean and simple design, and opt for materials with integrity such as glass, wood, or stone.”
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11 of 25
Add a Light Dimmer
@arleybateca
If you don’t have any scented candles or prefer a scent-free bathroom, try dimming the lights to make the space feel more relaxing. You can swap out your regular light bulbs for a lower wattage or install a dimmer to adjust the lighting as needed.
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12 of 25
Transform With Towel Storage
Sarah Shermansamuel
A wooden ladder in lieu of a traditional towel bar (or in addition to one) will immediately warm up your look while providing a proper place for you to showcase the fancy towels we’re about to discuss. They also add an inviting organic touch that only elements from nature can bring.
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13 of 25
Cue a Ritual
@punttim
“Move past the utilitarian nature of your bathroom, by incorporating small cues that help transition your mindset in the space,” suggests Ying Reeves. “Swap mismatched old towels for plush ones that remind you of your favorite hotel.”
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14 of 25
Try Neutral Tones
@celine_ord
Decorate your bathroom in soft creams, greys or shades of beige for it to feel clean and calm. Consider layering various shades of the same tone throughout the room to give a cohesive look to the space. You can also add rich wood tones to give your space a bold look without too many bright and exciting colours which is perfect for relaxing.
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15 of 25
Clean Your Bathroom Frequently
@gatheringwool.home
Although this may seem counterintuitive, a clean tub makes the relaxation session all that more enjoyable. “A weekly clean makes it easier to jump in the tub at any time and not worry about any grime that may be lurking,” says Karen Lee, Founder of Things Around the House.
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16 of 25
Warm Up Your Floors
The Socialite Family
Rugs do more than keep your bare feet comfortable; they bring an additional layer of sophisticated luxury to a design. And bathroom rugs, in particular, are getting a trendy makeover, featuring unexpected by oh-so-stunning styles like this. Try a kilim rug in lieu of a traditional bath mat for a fresh dose of sophistication.
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17 of 25
Don’t Overlook Aromatherapy
@tspoonphoto
“Smell is a very important part of feeling internally calm,” says Lee. “Using essential oils in a heated towel or opting for a full aromatherapy diffuser can help make the experience more spa-like. ”
The 7 Best Oil Diffusers of 2022
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18 of 25
Use Natural Wood
@celine_ord
Natural elements and materials will create a feeling of warmth in the space and may also dampen the sound, which will further help to foster a sense of serenity and calm. Look for high quality wood that is impervious to moisture so that you don't have to worry about the steam or humidity damaging your space. Teak, cedar, and hinoki are all beautiful and durable options.
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19 of 25
Install Speakers
@cottonbro
Add speakers to your bathroom to create a surround sound experience. This is perfect for playing zen music or sounds of nature while you relax. Make sure to look for a speaker that is totally safe to install in a humid location. Most Bluetooth speakers are water resistant and even come in more muted, natural looking tones that won't look out of place in your serene space.
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20 of 25
Consider Soft Blues and Greens
@sam_yink
The key to a spa-like bathroom involves creating the right ambience—and calming colorways are the easiest way to get it right. Consider using soft blue and green accents if you don’t want to stick to basic neutrals; they are calming and soothing but still add visual interest to the space.
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21 of 25
Hide Away the Essentials
@karolina-grabowska
Nothing ruins the spa effect like toiletries and toilet roll being on display. Consider investing in some closed off storage to hide away anything that isn't aesthetically pleasing. Then, curate open shelves with art, candles, and other decorative items that will help you get into a zen headspace.
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22 of 25
Have Amenities at the Ready
@essex_home_2020
The best part about heading to the spa—well, aside from the laundry list of relaxation treatments and massages!—is the abundance of high-end products on display. Having your own selection of amenities on display is an easy way to foster the feeling of a high end spa or hotel in an instant.
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23 of 25
Add Flowing Curtains
@paseidon72
Create a sense of gentle movement and flow by adding a light, sheer curtain to your bathroom window. Don’t have a window in your bathroom? Consider swapping out your shower curtain with a more light and airy option to achieve the same effect.
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24 of 25
Think About Using Various Materials
@oursouthwestnest
Mixing modern materials with more nature-inspired furniture and accents is a great way to foster a sense of zen and relaxation. Not only does it offer visual interest but it also creates a natural flow between the indoors and outdoors (even if you’re working with a small or dark bathroom!).
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25 of 25
Consider Adding a Bidet
@max-artbovich
You might not typically think of the toilet when working toward a spa-like bathroom—but investing in a bidet or a bidet attachment will make a major difference in how you define self care. Most modern bidets come with a heated seat for added comfort and can be added to just about any type of toilet.
The 6 Best Bidet Attachments of 2022
6 ideas, 30 examples - INMYROOM
Interior decor
Spa in your home? Easy! To do this, you just need to properly equip the bathroom. We'll give you some ideas for creating a small home spa bedroom
In our hectic times, so I want to find more time for myself! It is the bathroom being considered by many as a place to retire, relax and take time to care about your own beauty and comfort. Therefore, the design of the bathroom should be functional, and organize the space of this room in accordance with the principles of the spa, adding elements that will help you relax not only your body, but also your eyes, to put all worries out of your head. We will prompt some ideas for creating a small home spa. nine0007
1. Perfect bath
Bathroom center, Definitely the bath itself. Great option for relaxing water procedures will be an elegant “antique” bath: you can choose a thin cast-iron bath - it has a high heat capacity and looks very elegant. Even better bathrooms made of artificial stone retain heat, but this is not the cheapest option.
Spa tubs are also referred to as whirlpool tubs, with the deeper and the more it will be, the better. Don't Forget Bathroom Curtains - They're Not Only decorate, but also guarantee privacy. nine0003
2. Rain shower
he can arrange spa treatments. By hanging the shower over your head, you will ensure a wonderful full body massage. Consider a hydromassage shower cabin or hydromassage jets built directly into the wall. Arrange the shower space can also be equipped with the greatest comfort, for example, seating area. And, finally, for lovers of everything unusual, not accustomed to save on yourself, you can recommend a horizontal shower, which is taken lying down is a great way to relax! nine0003
3. Natural elements
Draw inspiration from nature. Elements such as stone, slate and wood will help you relax and rest your eyes. This applies to both walls and floors (refer to attention to chic tinted wood floors or exquisite marble tiles) and the ceiling, and even a cabinet under the sink. All this natural splendor It will look especially good with plumbing fixtures in neutral colors. Shells and, no matter how strange it may sound, stones can serve as a great accessory. nine0003
4. More nature
Contemplation of nature gives us peace of mind. You can decorate the bathroom with houseplants, but problematic: our urban bathrooms lack light and poor ventilation. But there are other options as well. A splash of green will dilute the space even the smallest bathroom: bright green towels, “nature-like” photo wallpapers or green tiles of one accent wall - all this will give freshness and harmony.
5. Smart storage
Of course for spa treatments numerous "helpers" are required: salts, oils, scrubs. Keep it all best in streamlined transparent vessels, because their simplicity and elegance help to maintain an atmosphere of calm and order. For bigger things open shelves are well suited - under a tree or matte shades. Wicker storage baskets will look logical in a natural spa interior. nine0003
6. Correct materials
Reflective and glossy materials, cream tiles (not necessarily small, large natural full-wall slabs - a very interesting option), translucent frosted glass shower doors, alabaster marble countertops - all this is not only pleasant to the touch and pleasing to the eye, but also practical: such materials enhance natural light, thus visually expanding the space.
5 ideas to turn your bathroom into a spa
Every person needs to slow down from time to time, listen to himself, relax and put his thoughts in order. Spas are the best for this purpose. But what if you do not want to spend time and money on a trip? Of course, create a soothing environment in your own bathroom.
We show you how easy it is to turn even a small bathroom into a spa.
Photo: k-hoch3.de
1. Nothing extra
Visual appeal is one of the key elements. Any disorder causes stress. In most spas, the space is fairly minimalist, and toiletries are kept neat and organized in closed cabinets or drawers.
In a small bathroom, it is better to get rid of everything unnecessary and make room in the cabinet for the essentials. Storage on open shelves should be organized by folding toiletries into beautiful containers. nine0003
Photo: decormu.com
2. Unity with nature
Natural colors have a calming effect. If the bathroom area is small, choose light shades of beige, light gray or pale green. The room will not only become more comfortable, but also visually increase.
Photo: behance.net
Add decor and accessories made from natural materials, and lay tiles on the floor with imitation wood texture. And do not forget to provide floor heating in those places where you are going to walk barefoot. nine0003
Decorate your space with indoor flowers. This is a great way to warm up the atmosphere. Try to choose plants suitable for damp rooms with insufficient lighting: fern, ivy, aloe, dieffenbachia, bamboo. Orchids or begonias can be placed in a bathroom with a window. Put the plants in beautiful pots, hang them and arrange them so that they do not clutter up the space.
Photo: pinterest.com
3. Cozy lighting
In addition to the basic lighting needed for morning routines, add dimmer-controlled ceiling or wall lights. A dimmer will help soften the light, and soaking in a relaxing bath will be much more pleasant. For evening lighting, it is better to use lamps with a warm, almost orange light.
Photo: deavita.fr
Complete the atmosphere with pleasant relaxing music. If you have a dedicated waterproof speaker, put it to good use. nine0003
4. Well-thought-out ergonomics
Starting your bathroom, try to think through all the important details: the installation of a heated towel rail, the size and shape of the mirror, the location of sockets and shelves that you can reach with your hand without getting out of the bath. This will make your impromptu home spa experience much more enjoyable.
Photo: pinterest.com
If a free-standing bathtub is not possible, a model with wide sides will do. You can place candles, drinks or gadgets on them. But balancing things on the edge of the bath is dangerous - they can fall into the water.