Bathrooms For Relaxation

Once conceived as a pure utility space, functionally kitted out for one’s daily ablutions, the bathroom is now raising its profile in the home and being recognised as a ‘living’ area in its own right. While the morning shower is a rushed affair, when it comes to the end of the day, more and more people are cocooning themselves in the sanctuary of the bathroom, where they can relax and unwind in peace.

The key to success when it comes to creating a relaxing bathroom is lighting. Rather than just using overhead lights, create warm, atmospheric pools of light with a mix of wall lights (which should be positioned at eye level either side of a mirror for the best close-up reflection) and feature lighting, perhaps under glass shelving or along the plinth line of the bath. Chromotherapy lighting, which uses different coloured bulbs to enhance your mood are proving especially popular, with blues and greens thought to aid relaxation.

However, avoid cool colours on the walls if possible – watery blues or turquoises can be reflected badly by downlighters, making your skin tone appear pallid, and casting a cold ambiance on the room. Instead, opt for warm colours such as deep reds, natural timbers and rustic tones – used as accents so as not to overpower the space.

Don’t forget to harness the relaxing power of water itself. A gentle shower – especially if mood lighting is incorporated within the shower enclosure itself – can do much to calm the senses, while a whirlpool bath will pummel the muscles into submission and the sound of swirling water will provide sensual acoustics that will enhance the overall tranquillity of your bathroom. Finally, if at all possible, try to incorporate a comfortable seating area – perhaps a chaise longue – where you can discuss the day’s events while your partner is in the tub.

Additional information

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