I would like to make my bathroom a more relaxing, inviting space to decompress in after a long, stressful day at the office. What kinds of colors, elements, design features and accessories would you recommend adding to help transform it into more of a spa-like, restorative oasis?
“When it comes to transforming your bathroom into an oasis, the two things that will give you the biggest return for your investment are paint colors and lighting,” advises interior designer Tobi Fairley of Little Rock, whose work regularly appears in national decorating publications.
“Paint is so inexpensive, and you can select a color that is soothing and serene for you,” Fairley says.
When it comes to selecting a hue, that’s an individual choice and that decision comes down to a matter of personal preference.
“Color is subjective,” Fairley says, “but a calming color could be a pale blue, light gray, or a spa green.”
Fairley also suggests taking a good, hard look at the cabinets in the bathroom as well.
Those which are dated or an odd mid-brown color could benefit from being repainted in a new color.
After the colors have been chosen and applied, the next order of business is to focus on the room’s lighting, as the right choice can offer much ambience. Fairley’s suggestion? Investing in a dimmer light switch.
“Once that is installed, you’ll have the best soothing color and the spa-like lighting you need to relax,” she says.
Fairley also suggests candles and soothing music to enhance the relaxing atmosphere.
When it comes to candles, consider using scented ones or grouping votive candles into a larger dish or planter filled with pebbles to help bring the ambience of a spa into a bathroom.
Adding bubbles to a bath can also improve a good, relaxing soak, but those who have tubs with jets take note that bubbles are not advised because the material may clog the jets. Other water additives include herbs, oils or Epsom salts, which can alleviate muscle aches and can also serve as skin softeners.
Another element that can help create a more soothing, luxurious spa-like feel is a tray which stretches across the tub and can hold items such as a book, candles or a glass of wine. Those with small bathrooms may also want to consider adding a curved shower rod to make the cramped space seem larger.
“And don’t forget how important it is to have great towels,” Fairley says, adding that those who can’t afford to buy an entire closet full of new towels could buy just one or two really thick, soft ones for themselves. Fairley also suggests adding a plush rug and maybe a bath pillow as well.
“Just add water and you’ve got the very best of the luxury spas, right in your home,” Fairley says.
Do you have a decorating or remodeling question? Send your question to Linda S. Haymes, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, P.O. Box 2221, Little Rock, Ark. 72203 or email:
HomeStyle, Pages 33 on 03/22/2014