A bathroom can be a private space to refresh and re-energise. First declutter, then add a few touches to soothe the senses and introduce a sense of calm. Bathroom Butler’s experts share their top five tips for turning your bathroom into a spa-like oasis.
1. Create ambient lighting
For a serene ambience, consider replacing fluorescent or bright lights with recessed ceiling lights, or getting an electrician in to install a dimmer switch. Or simply place candles strategically throughout the room. Two pillar candles at the end of the bath and an additional large candle on a windowsill, glass shelf or dresser will provide gentle light.
2. Install a heated towel rail
Nothing feels more luxurious than getting out of the shower or bath and reaching for a warm, dry towel. Opt for an energy-efficient heated towel rail; some need only one light bulb’s worth of power to run.
3. Add greenery
Plants don’t just clean the air, emit oxygen and filter airborne pollutants – they also suppress airborne mould spores and bacteria, and balance out humidity. And then, of course, they add a serene feeling to your space. Tropical plants thrive in a bathroom, as they love humidity. Add a few pot plants to the bathroom, or if you’re short on space, consider hanging plants, like ivy. For low-light bathrooms, consider snake plant (also known as ‘mother-in-law’s tongue’) and bamboo; orchids and ferns need a little more light (not direct sunlight), so they’ll do best on a windowsill. If your bathroom gets a lot of light, opt for an array of aloes, which are both striking and low-maintenance.
4. Update your accessories
Introduce the sleek spa look with accessories and storage solutions including shower racks, glass shelves, holders and robe hooks made from grade-304 stainless steel – the ideal material for the bathroom, as it doesn’t corrode and it doesn’t collect bacteria or algae.
5. Just add aromatherapy
For a real spa-type experience, add an oil burner and a range of aromatherapy oils – lavender for relaxation, eucalyptus for rejuvenation and to open up the airways, citronella to invigorate and ylang-ylang for amorousness. Always keep all essential oils out of reach of children and pets.
Photos courtesy of Bathroom Butler (www.bathroombutler.co.za).
