Wellness will continue to be of significant interest for homeowners doing up their properties as we move through 2026 - and one of the best places to adopt this interior design concept is, of course, the bathroom.
This is one of the few places in the home to which you can truly escape, closing the door on the whirlwind that is family and work life, enjoying some well-earned rest and relaxation.
As such, designing your bathroom so it looks and feels like a spa is an excellent idea, with all the modcons you’d expect to find in these calm and restorative havens.
Not sure where to begin? Here’s a quick guide to help you get started.
1. Think minimalist
Spas are, by nature, free from clutter so if you want to achieve this kind of look, you need to be as minimalist as possible in your approach.
Consider investing in concealed shower units, for example, where all you can see is the shower head itself and the controls. Floating toilets can help maximise space in smaller rooms, if this is a necessity.
If you have the room, a freestanding bathtub will ensure that you have luxurious bathing options but if need be, a shower over the bath unit will always be an excellent option, as well.
2. Use natural materials
Fill the space with wood, bamboo, linen, cotton, teak, marble, travertine, granite and glass to quickly make your bathroom feel more like a spa. You want to create a sense of peace and tranquility, and these materials are perfect for achieving this.
Decorate with lots of plants (a living wall would be an excellent addition!) and you’ll quickly bring the space to life, while giving your mental and emotional health and wellbeing a serious boost into the bargain.
3. Plan your lighting system carefully
As with any part of the house, your lighting system can make or break the look and feel of your spa bathroom. When planning your designs, factor the lighting in as early in the process as you can to avoid costly mistakes.
For a spa bathroom, you’ll want to create a soft ambient glow that feels calm and peaceful, helping you to relax. However, you’ll also want to have it well lit at times, so installing a dimmer switch is the best way to tick the practical and aesthetic boxes at the same time.
4. Choose a neutral colour palette
Avoid using any energetic colours in the bathroom if you want a relaxing atmosphere. Instead, go for the likes of greys, creams, whites and earthy browns for a very chilled out space. If you do want some colour, bring in darker shades of greens and blues.
Perhaps visit a spa or two before you decide so you can seek inspiration in real life!
5. Don’t forget scent!
Our olfactory senses are very powerful and the right scent in the bathroom can relax us in an instant. Consider using essential oils like eucalyptus and lavender to create a harmonious place in which you could while away the hours with ease.
You could even hang a bunch of eucalyptus in the shower for a steaming experience like no other!