Bathroom 101 | A Life of Luxury

Bathrooms were a rarity until the late 1920’s and for decades after that were often rather chilly, functional spaces, lacking many of the comforts we now take for granted.  In recent years however, the bathroom has seen a new level of design focus, becoming less a purely pragmatic space and more a sanctuary.  Inspiration for this often comes from fabulous bathrooms we experience in boutique hotels and chic spa resorts, and we have many clients who want to recreate this level of luxury.  Here, we have come up with some suggestions to help you create the spa look in your bathroom at home.

It’s all about focus pieces and nothing makes more of a statement than a freestanding roll top bath.  Make it the centrepiece of your bathroom by placing it in the centre of the room or beneath a window to make the most of a beautiful view.

Alternatively, take a theme from boutique hotels and bring a freestanding bath tub into your bedroom – as seen here with a Spey bath at Babington House and the master bedroom of this Surrey Country House.

Glass shower enclosures are a practical item which also add design lustre to the bathroom.  Above, the shower screen and concealed shower would look right at home in even the most luxurious Spa hotel.  Note the marble cladding too, for an extra touch of fabulousness.

Nothing beats the luxury of natural materials for vanity tops and bath surrounds.  From splendid hand-cut marbles to sleek grey stone, they bring gravitas and grandeur to a bathroom.  If budget allows, you can take this still further, with natural stone flooring and wall cladding making a really dramatic statement.

If you are taking your colour inspiration from the spa experience, make white the central theme, accessorised with a neutral palette of creams and greys creating a clean and calming atmosphere.  Use pastels if you want to introduce focus shades.

No matter how beautifully designed and fitted your bathroom is, the clutter of everyday living can spoil the look.  Spas and boutique hotels always keep their space tidy and minimalist so follow their lead by incorporating practical storage into your scheme.  Keep wonderfully fluffy white towels on a magnificent towel warmer and hang chic bath robes on robe hooks.  Display one or two beautiful objects and a few smart toiletries which set the scene.  Otherwise keep everything out of site.

Splendid fittings, luxurious materials, minimal clutter: Get the spa look right and it will give you a great bathroom experience, creating a very personal space where you can let everyday cares float away.