HOME DÉCOR Bathroom as 'Spa' Today's Trends: Attractive Bathrooms to Destress

During a time of high levels of stress and the need for self-care in our homes, spa-like bathrooms are trending with bathroom remodels and new builds. We are saying goodbye to cramped showers with mildewed shower curtains. We have also bid our farewells to powerful shower heads or the ones that drip instead of flow. We find inspiration from the natural world, such as the rain showerhead and tiled floors. Even river rocks have graced shower floors. &emsp;The current trends also provide us with attractive bathrooms with exotic tiles, walk-in showers, and deep-soaking tubs. We might not want to leave the luxurious space of our bathrooms because they offer a respite from the outer world. &emsp;Ann Henderson (of Ann Henderson Interiors in Keene, NH) shares her observations on the current trends: "The bath is the second highest ticket item in construction and renovation generally, and that trend is continuing to rise. Baths are seen as private retreats for relaxing, an invitation to self-care, essential to health, welcoming and as elegant as possible." &emsp;Having stayed at numerous Airbnb rentals with walk-in showers, I wondered if tubs were on their way out. The traditional tub still appears in some homes, but many homeowners, especially older ones with aging-in-place preferences, choose walk-in showers. &emsp;Henderson mentions that showers are not replacing tubs. Still, homeowners are opting for a different kind of tub experience: "Walk-in no-threshold showers (shower floor is a continuation of bath floor) and frameless shower doors make it possible to feel the shower is fully integrated with the space and to carve out a smaller footprint for the design. Baths are now offered in smaller sizes and lighter materials, making it possible to have both." Bathroom renovations on a budget Since bathroom renovations are costly, some home-centered magazines have mentioned DIY approaches to upgrading a bathroom and making it more spa-like. This may include painting the walls in calming blue or green, removing the vinyl flooring, and replacing it with tile with exotic designs or themes. Other tips include: Replace the harsher LED lights with softer or full-spectrum lights. And lose the lights above the mirror since they cause deeper shadows to appear under the eyes (not flattering for us older folks). If it's within budget, have the tub replaced with a walk-in shower using the same tile from the bathroom floor. Lose the shower curtain and opt for a glass door. Add moisture-loving plants to the bathroom. Look for vanities and mirrors in construction salvage or reclaiming shops, which might involve applying new stains or paint to match the color themes of the bathroom. &emsp;Henderson also points out tips that could be adjusted to a budget. "Rain shower heads and sunflower showerheads continue to evolve and are very popular. These showerheads spread water over a wider surface and often have different pressure and drip settings. Add to that digital and voice-activated fixtures that set the temperature and the pressure just as you like it and/or experiential shower heads that combine with lighting and aroma therapy to create the mood of different environments such as a rain forest, a summer shower, or a nebulizer." Going all-out with bath renovations Less is more when it comes to renovations because keeping up with every trend is impossible. And, of course, the cost of renovations mounts when more features are added. However, for homeowners with the funds to splurge or provide an upscale vacation rental, replace the cheaper vinyl (unattractive) flooring and glue-on countertops with natural materials such as granite, marble or other stone. Tile is in fashion, too, from a clean white look to darker jewel tones. &emsp;"Natural stone in light colors, such as marble, will always be in demand, but quartz is becoming the real driver of many designer baths," notes Henderson. Quartz is available in narrower 2 centimeters and in large sheets that can cover walls, which "offers beautiful patterns that truly make a statement." &emsp;Although metal, wood and laminate are trending in bathroom renovations, Henderson warns that those materials are not practical for bathrooms. "I would, however, suggest that tiles have gotten even more beautiful — both manmade and natural — choices from mosaic to larger scaled diamonds and herringbone." Do your research Whether this is a DIY project or a long-awaited bathroom remodeling, research of materials and trends is recommended: Consult with local designers or visit their galleries on their websites to find inspiration. Visit bathroom showrooms where you can touch the materials, whether different types of wood for the cabinets and vanity or the tiles your feet will encounter while you relax in the shower. Create a budget and price the fixtures and materials you will require (for do-it-yourself remodeling), including paint, wood, flooring, showerheads, etc. If you hire a designer, see what is possible within your budget. And remember, renovations often go over budget when materials go up in price or labor takes longer than initially intended. &emsp;And even if you are on a tight budget, Henderson adds these tips: Dream big, and don't be daunted by the size of your space. Work with a designer to layout your space to your best advantage. Don't buy anything until you have a plan, and work steadily toward your goal. Bathrooms are places for manageable DIY projects such as painting, wallpapering, and, in some cases, tiling. Repurpose materials: Sink bases can be upcycled from old pieces of furniture or freshly painted cabinetry. Funky decorative mirrors impart character and, if oversized, can change the feeling of the bath. Sidebars Tubs vs. Showers Showers are for people who would like a quick bathing experience. It's easier to wash hair in a shower. Showers often provide massage showerheads. Baths are for soaking. Baths are luxurious and relaxing. When people think of self-care, it usually involves a soak in a tub. When is the Right Time to Remodel a Bathroom? Aging in place (create more space for wheelchairs or walkers; replace the tub shower with a walk-in shower). When a family grows (this includes the birth of new family members or family remembers returning to the house). Bathroom fixtures are in disrepair, or the flooring is torn. The bathroom needs updating (the bathroom is worn-out and needs updating to fit current lifestyles).