Temples of RELAXATION
In the wake of the pandemic, it’s becoming increasingly vital to create a place to shut the world away, a sanctuary . We explore the evolution of the wellness bathroom and how to create your very own spa-like space
Acouple of years ago, the term ‘wellness bathroom’ might have conjured up intimidating clinical spaces. But over the last year, the concept has softened somewhat, evolving to encompass a wider, more personal approach.
This shift has been partly prompted by the pandemic. ‘It completely changed how we see our homes. They’re now a place of comfort and safety, and the bathroom has truly become a sanctuary where we can pamper ourselves,’ agrees Yousef Mansuri, head of design at CP Hart. He’s predicting big things for the ‘at-home spa’ over the next few years, as many clients look to fit saunas and steam rooms – such as the ‘Touch and Steam’ by Effegibi,whichcreatesahammam experience – in their spaces.
‘They’re no longer specialist products. Consumers are keen to embrace more technological possibilities as they view bathrooms as spaces to relax, as opposed to solely utilitarian areas,’ explains Mansuri. CP Hart’s other popular designs focus on chromotherapy and technically advanced showers such as the ‘ATT’ system by Dornbracht or the ‘Raindance’ shower series by Hansgrohe, which include massage functions and a range of settings for different sensory experiences.
A sauna might be a stretch for many of us, but there are easier ways to usher in a spa-like feel. According to Emma Joyce, brand manager at Victoria + Albert Baths, ‘People are considering a more pared-back, natural feel to their bathrooms.’ She has noticed customers going back to basics in their quest for a sanctuary to call their own, adding: ‘Freestanding baths are synonymous with luxurious spaces and they create a serene environment.’ The brand offers designs from traditional to contemporary, and has recently added the circular ‘Taizu’. This joins a slew of recently launched round tubs, including Inbani’s ‘Arc’ and Ex.t’s ‘Nouveau’ – all offer indulgent, spa-like escapism (and enough space for two.)
Although less glamorous, hygiene has become an increasing priority. New innovations include Italian tile brand Marazzi’s ‘Puro’ antibacterial technology that kills 99.9 per cent of bacteria. It features in its ‘Carácter’, ‘Plaza’ and ‘Alba’ collections, which all have a natural, tactile look and feel, proving that sanitary needn’t mean uninviting. Products with discrete hygienic glazes have also become popular, says Mansuri. Then there’s VitrA’s new ‘Voyage’ range with Arik Levy, which is entirely wall-hung in order to open out the corners of a room and allow for easy cleaning, while creating a space that feels less cluttered and more relaxing to be in.
When it comes to designing a wellness space, there’s no set style, rather a few guiding principles to consider. Mansuri’s advice is to ‘start with the basics – low lighting, a deep, double-ended bath and a good performance shower’. Interior designer Susie Atkinson, who has launched the ‘Whitewater’ bath with Drummonds, says the balance of textures is key: ‘A bathroom has a lot of cold surfaces, such as tiles, shower screens and mirrors – this needs to be compensated by bringing in a softness and warmth in other ways.’ She suggests using textured fabrics for blinds and warm tones of paint. ‘Good storage, lighting and natural materials are key elements, too,’ she says. ‘Above all, they should feel calm, uncluttered and have a freshness about them, allowing you to enjoy your daily rituals.’
‘START WITH THE BASICS – LOW LIGHTING, A DEEP, DOUBLE-ENDED BATH AND A PERFORMANCE SHOWER’