Sometimes, perhaps after a long day at work or a stressful week, you just feel like unplugging. The good news is that you don’t even need to leave the house to do so. You can create a relaxing, peaceful oasis right a home; in your own bathroom. For a perfect home spa, channel cultures with a bathing tradition: take a page from the Turkish playbook and consider hammams, for example. Here are our tips to get started.
Colourful bathroom
Switch it up
Change the colours in your bathroom: warm it up with earth or jewel tones. Go colourful and don’t just stick to one hue, as that can quickly become drab. Don’t worry, this is no major adjustment: textiles and rugs make a big difference, as do flowers. And consider, of course, the deco: use wicker baskets, place tea lights and little objects that put you in a mood of relaxing peace and quiet around the room. A feel-good quote decal or a pretty poster makes a big difference. And a matching set of soap dish or dispenser and a little container for your toothbrush really pull the room together.
© Laurence Katz
Ambiance
Scented candles really come into their own in a steamy bathroom. But you can also use an oil lamp, some incense sticks, or, in a pinch, a diffuser (but remember to get a smoke alarm, just in case). For the actual bath, you can gather a selection of salts, oils and foams… a pillow for the tub and a tray so you can enjoy a glass of champagne or read your favourite book. Better hide those unromantic cleaning supplies or ugly bag of toilet paper rolls. This is a luxurious spa, not a mere bathroom. Put on some calming music on your speakers and enjoy.
© Adison Clark
Plush towels and robes.
You’re going to want to make the space as comfortable as possible. The easiest way to go about this is with textiles: towels, robes, bath mats and rugs should be soft and feel great against your skin. Get a matching set, and display them in your bathroom in a beautiful manner, ready for whenever you need to take a day off. A “do not disturb” sign is optional, but recommended.
© Photoholic
Bath accessories
Certain accessories sweeten the few stolen hours you can spend in the bath, away from stress and responsibility. Invest in a nice body brush, or a loofa if that’s more your style. One of those over-the-top bath bombs, with dried flowers, glitter or pretty colour to dye the water are sure to add to the flair and put a smile on your face. Rubber duckies welcome. Also, many plants love warm, steamy bathrooms, so get some pretty pots and vases in a matching colour and decorate the space with tropical greenery.
© R Architecture
Skincare
Face masks, scrubs, lotions… pamper yourself and your skin for the most relaxing experience. When it comes to creating a spa-like feel, it’s worth investing in finer bath products and body care — those bulky drugstore bottles just won’t do. Get a nourishing, silky cream and something lovely for your hair, or choose your favourite body oil to use after your bath. Try to go organic — doing something good for the environment while you do something good for yourself is doubly sweet.
