How to style a spa-like bathroom sanctuary in your home

Since much of the past two years has seen us house-bound and searching for ways to replicate our favourite luxurious surroundings within our walls, it’s really no surprise that spa-inspired bathrooms are topping interior trend charts as a consequence.

And, what’s not to love about having a spa-style bathroom at home? For starters, relaxing surroundings can help us to better manage – and reduce – feelings of stress and anxiety. Then, there’s the fact that spa-inspired design schemes tend to be totally timeless, so whilst it may not be in your nature to hop on a trending interior aesthetic, this particular one has the bones of a look that’ll feel sleek and stylish for years to come.

So read on to learn exactly how you can recreate a spa-style bathroom in your own home. And, as if you needed another excuse: consider how much you’ll save by booking a self-care appointment in your own suite as opposed to an actual spa…

Opt for a neutral colour palette

The foundation of a spa-inspired bathroom scheme is the colour palette. Neutral hues and those found in nature (think: graphite, sand, stone, and ecru) create a space that’s calming and grounding, and encourages ease of mind. We recommend our White 04, Beige 03, or Greige 02 for your spa-like bathroom walls.

Mood lighting is a must

Harsh lighting may be helpful for applying concealer and cleaning the toilet pan, but it’s going to do nothing in the way of facilitating a serene atmosphere in your bathroom. Instead, consider dimmable lighting options, so you can soften the light to suit the aesthetic or, if that’s not achievable, opt for candles to create a warm and calming glow whilst keeping the main light source off.

Pay attention to texture

A key element of spa-inspired bathroom schemes is texture – it adds dimension, and keeps pared-back interiors from feeling clinical. Natural textures, such as wood, marble, stone, rattan, and cotton are ideal for replicating the spa look, since they’re associated with the tranquility, homeliness, and slow-paced nature of, well, nature. Consider incorporating wooden furnishings or panelling into your design, along with marble, slate, or stone tiles, and finish the look with plush, fluffy cotton towels.

Don’t neglect your nose

When styling a spa-inspired scheme, consider how you want the surroundings to interact with your senses – including your sense of smell. Aromas such as lavender, jasmine, chamomile and ylang-ylang have calming properties, so a candle or essential oil featuring any of those scents will help to enhance the relaxing ambiance of the room. You can also incorporate bundles of fresh eucalyptus or potted plants into the design for a fresh and soothing aroma, even when you’re simply brushing your teeth.

Step up your toiletry game

You needn’t invest in high-end toiletries if that’s not your thing, but there are easy and low-cost ways to make your bathroom faves look a little prettier. Decant shower gel, shampoo and conditioner into (matching) glass bottles with pump lids, and pop your toothbrush in a little bamboo case (which also comes in handy for travelling) if you can’t store it in a vanity.

Declutter and upgrade storage

Clutter is sure to kill the serene, spa-like vibe, so consider storage solutions for any items you don’t want on show (remember that spa-inspired bathrooms tend to be fairly pared-back). If floor space is at a premium, shelving and storage boxes could be a simple solution – and don’t forget to go through your stash of toiletries, clearing out anything you no longer use.

Don’t skip the finishing touches

The trick to pulling this look together is being mindful of the minor details – the towel hooks, loo roll storage, and any accessories you have on display, for example, and ensuring they all suit the space. You can also add a little luxury by mimicking spa and hotel behaviours, such as decanting toiletries into travel-sized bottles for visiting overnight guests, and folding towels in that trademark boutique-hotel way.

Now that you’re all set to create the ultimate bathroom for indulgence, why don’t you check out our 10 self-care tips to try at home (some of which can be enjoyed in your new, spa-inspired bathroom).