Spa-inspired trends for primary bathroom renovations. By Pam Durkin
In recent years, new bathroom design projects have increasingly focused on creating a luxurious, spa-like environment at home that provides a peaceful and relaxing escape, especially in primary bathrooms. This development is not surprising, as the American Psychological Association finds that more than one in three adults define their stress level as “overwhelming” and desire some respite. This trend was substantiated recently in a report from the National Association of Realtors, which describes these bathroom designs as spa-like and having organic elements with handcrafted furnishings, attractive lighting, and a feeling of serenity.
Key elements of spa-inspired bathroom design
Soothing color palettes
The color scheme you choose for a spa-like design should achieve a sense of calm, tranquility, and cohesiveness. Start with a soft, neutral white that evokes a sense of purity and openness.
Consider nature-inspired colors such as cool greens for a feeling of healthy, fresh foliage, and blues for a feeling of coastal waters or clear skies.
Among the best ways to create a serene environment is by bringing in warm tones such as earthy browns or tans.
Other colors to consider integrating include gray or navy for a sense of sophistication. Pastel shades of yellow, orange, or pink have a soothing effect and reflect the opportunity of a new day in the morning.
Natural materials and textures
Stone
Using stone or mineral composites in vanity countertops, shower walls, or tile floors is among the best ways of achieving a natural atmosphere. Commonly found in high-end hotel spas, marble is an incredibly versatile stone that is available in many patterns and shades. Carrara marble is a timeless favorite and often has a distinctive bluish-grey veining.
Although composed of approximately 80 percent stone, quartz is a manufactured option with a natural stone look. Quartz contains pigments, polymers, and resins, which enhance its appearance and minimize the need for maintenance. One popular quartz variety is Silestone, a modern, nonporous material used in bathroom sinks, shower trays, and vanity countertops.
Wood
Wood is available in various tones and is potentially used in bathrooms as treated hardwood flooring, molding, stools, benches, or frames. Bathroom vanities often use lighter-toned wood finishes such as light natural oak, pebble oak, or latte oak. However, darker tones such as whitewashed walnut, mid-century walnut, or carbon oak are also available.
There are also several ways to add sustainable, natural materials to a modern bathroom. Examples include wicker baskets, cork tiles, bamboo shelves, or towel racks. Consider other eco-friendly or recycled materials, such as furnishings composed of reclaimed wood, organic bath towels, or recycled glass.
Minimalist fixtures and features
Consistent with the minimalistic style, strive to keep vanities sleek and open with clean lines. You might consider wall-mounted, floating vanities with rounded edges. Maintain the “less is more” minimalistic style by adding a vanity with ample storage so that the space is less cluttered and choose finishes including matte black or stainless steel. Other minimalistic elements used in modern bathrooms include freestanding bathtubs and frameless showers.
Luxurious details that enhance serenity
Lighting design
A truly spa-inspired space should not rely exclusively on a central overhead light. Lighting can create relaxing, spa-like moods.
Windows and skylights can provide natural light during the day. While we want to invite natural light into the bathroom space, we should not compromise privacy. Two of the best options for achieving this balance include textured and frosted glass.
Layered lighting refers to a concept of merging several types, such as ambient lighting, task lighting, and accent lighting. Having lights running on separate switches is helpful, so consider adding dimmer switches.
Consider recessed lights for ambient lighting, mirrors with LED lights for task lighting, and track lights for accent lighting. Wall sconces vertically positioned on either side of the mirror can eliminate shadows. This multidimensional approach improves the aesthetics and functionality of your bathroom space.
Wellness-focused features
A spa-like environment should contain features that are indulgent, therapeutic, and rejuvenating. Adding a rainfall-style showerhead coupled with a detached wand-like, handheld showerhead can deliver elements of massage and hydrotherapy. Heated floors, a luxury on cool mornings, are now an option at home, with water-based or electric systems available for bathroom applications.
Embrace smart-technology innovations such as fog-free mirrors and motion-activated bathroom faucets, some of which include sustainable, water-efficiency sensors. Smart showerheads feature digital displays that allow you to set customized preferences for the intensity of the water pressure and the water temperature.
Accessorizing for tranquility
Accessories are an excellent means of engaging the senses. Consider plush bathroom rugs in drier areas, live plants, fresh flowers, and candles to foster a tranquil setting.
Inspiration from real-life designs
Check out these two recent design projects:
This modern, spa-inspired design features a floating, double-sink vanity in latte oak with a clean, glossy white composite stone top. The vanity is sleek, with drawers and doors that have soft-close glides and hinges, which open to reveal ample storage space. The bathroom contains a glass-enclosed, walk-in shower and a freestanding bathtub.
This primary bathroom project features a bright, neutral color scheme that reflects modern and minimalist styles with some traditional accents. The 72” Brittany “his and hers” double-sink vanity is composed of Birch solids and veneers with a bright white finish. The counter has a natural Carrara marble top, which is white with unique grey veining.
The satin nickel faucet and hardware add sophistication. Above the sinks are a pair of 29” rectangular Bristol mirrors with bright white frames. You can see a frameless glass shower with a matching luxury showerhead through the mirror’s reflection.
Practical tips for homeowners and designers
Achieving a modern, luxurious bathroom in your home is a reality – even with a modest budget. Transforming a bathroom into a spa-like, relaxing oasis is a worthwhile opportunity to apply your design creativity and form a setting that can brighten your mood, alleviate stress, and be significantly more functional.
For a list of the sources used in this article, please contact the editor.
Pam Durkin is the President of James Martin Vanities (JMV), a leading manufacturer and provider of luxury bathroom vanities and mirrors. With over 45 collections and thousands of combinations of cabinets, finishes, sizes, and tops to choose from, JMV offers both aesthetic and practical versatility to reflect clients’ style and allow them to create their own personal bathroom retreat.
Pam brings over three decades of industry experience and leadership to her role. Her hands-on approach and keen understanding of market dynamics ensures JMV remains at the forefront of trends and customer expectations.