Expert-approved tips for adding spa-like luxury to your home

(NC) Busy schedules and long hours are pushing us to search for and create a little rest and relaxation at home — and a spa bathroom is the perfect place to start. Working with experts will ensure your planning and effort lead to a beautiful renovation that’s powered to perform. Kimberley Seldon, design expert, recommends adding luxury five-star hotel features to your home bathroom. Consider in-floor heating and heated towel racks to keep the room cozy and plush towels warm. “These features add to the spa feeling at home, but there are electrical considerations to keep in mind, which is why proper planning and the right experts are required,” Seldon explains. In-floor heating must be installed per the manufacturer’s requirements and to Ontario Electrical Safety Code standards. The associated wall thermostat should be placed strategically for ease of use without impeding the design of your ensuite and must be at least one metre from a bathtub or shower stall. If it can’t be a metre away, make sure it’s GFCI-protected. A licensed electrical contractor will ensure the work is done safely and to Code. Traditional or transitional design features such as wainscoting and deep crown moulding will keep your ensuite looking timeless. Openconcept showers and modern-shaped tubs add a contemporary feeling to the space. Consider a bold colour to create drama and opt for artwork that does not need to be behind glass, where steam can impact the piece. Lighting features need to be practical — allowing for up-close grooming and mood lighting — as well as decorative. Plan ahead for any electrical needs for high-tech items such as towel warming racks, or a digitally controlled steam shower, as extra circuits or power sources may be needed. Working with a licensed electrical contractor and interior design professional is the surest way to achieve the ensuite of your dreams. Ask for a certificate of inspection when any electrical work is complete for insurance and resale purposes, not to mention peace of mind. Find more tips online at poweryourlife.ca.