One of the top bathroom design trends for 2026 is embodying the ambience and style of a spa. It’s easy to see why – we could all do with a place in our homes that is stress-free and helps us relax.
But what specific design decisions can you take to create that spa-like ambience? And do you have to completely overhaul your bathroom to achieve this atmosphere, or can you do it with a few simple swaps.
We’ve put together three top tips to help you in your quest to create a spa-style bathroom.
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Add wood through your bathroom furniture
Wood accents within a bathroom can give it a distinctly spa-like feel, because this material reminds us of natural spaces and is one that we associate with spa experiences like saunas.
What’s more, research has found that including more natural wood in our indoor environments helps lower stress levels – precisely the outcome you’re looking for in a spa!
One of the easiest ways to introduce wooden touches to your bathroom is through the vanity units or cupboards you add to your bathroom. Consider the likes of wood-fronted drawers beneath your basin.
Alternatively you could opt for a combined toilet and basin unit, which not only hides unsightly plumbing, but also makes use of wood to give your bathroom a natural and warm appearance.
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Include a freestanding bathtub
While not everyone will have space in their bathrooms for a freestanding bathtub, nothing quite says spa luxury like a roll-top bath or a tub that stands alone. The space it takes up makes it feel luxurious before you’ve even climbed into the water.
If you enjoy a long soak after a hard day, this is certainly a good way to make your favourite way to unwind feel more like an event. When you pair it with sleek taps, you’ll have a high-end aesthetic that would fit in any modern spa.
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Keep it simple
One of the best ways to create a spa ambience in your bathroom is to keep the visual aesthetic simple. You don’t want your eyes to be darting all over the place noticing too many details. Instead, focus on creating a peaceful, calm vibe.
That means sticking to a largely neutral colour palette or soft shades, as well as reducing clutter wherever possible.
Choosing the right bathroom storage will help, as this will give you a place to keep all the usual toiletries and towels out of sight, helping you relax in a space that feels clean and clear.
While you might want to add the likes of aromatherapy diffusers or plants, don’t go overboard. Use these details sparingly to ensure that you capture that stripped back minimalism that many spas do so well.
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Use layered lighting
Nothing will kill the spa vibes quite like bright overhead lighting. If possible, use a layered approach to your lighting so that you can adjust the ambience as appropriate.
You’ll no doubt want one main light, but explore how you can add accent lighting, both around mirrors for tasks like applying makeup, and at strategic points in your bathroom to help you create softer lighting for the evenings when you want to relax in the bath.