Unlocking the Spa-like Oasis Within
As an interior designer, I firmly believe that every inch of our homes should be a reflection of our personal style and lifestyle. And when it comes to the bathroom, that belief holds true perhaps more than anywhere else. After all, this is the space where we start and end each day – it should be a true sanctuary, a place to find comfort, calm, and inspiration.
Yet, if you’re anything like me, you may have struggled to achieve that elusive “spa-like” feel in your own bathroom. Maybe the color scheme felt outdated, the layout felt cramped, or the fixtures just didn’t have that touch of luxury you craved. I’ve certainly been there. In fact, my own primary bathroom went through a complete transformation not too long ago – one that took years to finally get right.
As I shared on my blog, the original bathroom was in decent shape, but it just didn’t excite me. The one-dimensional color palette, the bulky built-in tub that ate up precious floor space – there was so much untapped potential. And when life threw me a curveball, I knew it was the perfect time to take on a redesign that would truly elevate the space.
From Drab to Dreamy: My Bathroom Transformation Journey
I’ll never forget the day the team from The Tile Shop reached out to me, offering to help with my bathroom redo. As an interior designer, I’d worked with them before, and I knew their commitment to quality and customer service was unparalleled. But this time, their generosity went above and beyond. Not only did they provide all the new tile and tiling supplies I needed, but they even flew in an expert installer, Jason, to ensure the job was done to perfection.
With their support, I was able to embark on a journey to completely redesign and transform my primary bathroom into a true oasis. And let me tell you, the process was anything but smooth sailing. There were plumbing issues to tackle, mold to contend with, and a constant battle between my heart and my head as I tried to balance my personal vision with practical considerations.
But through it all, I stayed focused on my goal: creating a sanctuary that would be a reflection of my own style and personality. And the key to achieving that? Embracing a light, airy, and luxurious aesthetic.
Designing for the Spa-Like Experience
From the very beginning, I knew I wanted to channel the serene ambiance of my favorite spa experiences. After all, what could be more relaxing than sinking into a warm, bubbly tub after a long day, surrounded by soothing neutral tones and natural textures?
To bring that vision to life, I carefully curated a palette of soft, muted hues – think Sherwin Williams’ Panda White for the walls and trim. But I didn’t stop there. I also incorporated a range of natural materials and finishes to add depth and visual interest, like the handmade zellige-style tiles, the terrazzo-inspired porcelain floors, and the warm wood tones of the floating vanity.
And speaking of the vanity, I made sure to include ample storage space – because let’s be real, no one wants a cluttered bathroom. Those woven baskets underneath are the perfect spot to tuck away extra towels and toiletries, keeping the space looking clean and uncluttered.
But the real showstopper? The Kohler fixtures and fittings. From the matte black faucets and shower hardware to the Comfort Height Highline toilet with the built-in bidet (let me tell you, that has been life-changing), every element was carefully chosen to elevate the overall aesthetic.
Crafting the Perfect Sanctuary
Of course, no bathroom transformation is complete without the finishing touches. And for me, that meant infusing the space with a few personal flourishes that would make it truly my own.
The hand-painted mural on the smaller walls added a subtle touch of movement and personality, while the ZZ plant in its aged clay planter brought in a much-needed dose of greenery. And let’s not forget those brass-framed mirrors – a holdover from the previous design that still managed to fit seamlessly into the new aesthetic.
But perhaps the most transformative element was the decision to incorporate a curbless shower. Not only does it make the space feel more open and airy, but it also adds a modern, spa-like sophistication that takes the entire design to new heights.
A Sanctuary to Call My Own
As I look around my newly renovated bathroom, I can’t help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment. This space is a true reflection of my personal style and vision, a sanctuary where I can escape the stresses of daily life and find comfort, inspiration, and a much-needed sense of calm.
And you know what? I think that’s the true power of good design. It has the ability to transform not just a room, but our entire outlook on life. When our homes become a true extension of who we are, they have the power to uplift us, to energize us, and to remind us that we are worthy of the very best.
So if you’re someone who’s been dreaming of a bathroom that feels more like a luxury spa than a utilitarian space, I encourage you to take the plunge. Embrace the light, the texture, the unexpected details that will make your space truly shine. Because trust me, the journey may have its ups and downs, but the end result will be more than worth it.
