Creating a space that’s as effective when you’re rushing to get ready for work as when you’re relaxing at the end of the day isn’t easy, but it’s well worth the effort. The master bathroom is a heavily used but often ignored part of the home. With a little effort, you can transform a functional closet-like space into a luxurious retreat. Here are our tips to get you started.
Choose your materials wisely
A master bath will be used every day, so the materials you use should be designed to last without compromising the beauty and elegance of the space. Stone is ideal for bathrooms as it’s waterproof, doesn’t stain or warp and is easy to clean. Limestone bathroom tiles are an increasingly popular alternative to marble and granite. The natural beauty of the stone creates a feature bathroom without taking up any extra space or any more of your time.
Think about the shape of your space
If you’ve ever stayed in a really posh hotel, you may already have an idea of what your ideal master bathroom would look like. Unfortunately, unless your bathroom happens to have the exact same dimensions as that once-upon-a-time space, you’ll need to make adjustments. Draw on inspirational pictures for ideas, but make sure your final design is grounded in your actual home.
Avoid overcrowding
Yes, it’s tempting to fit a spa bath, a rainfall shower, a double vanity and all the other mod cons in, but if you’re constantly banging an elbow or squeezing past fittings your space will feel cluttered rather than relaxing. As most British bathrooms are compact, the key to creating a luxurious space is making the most of the space – adding a deep corner bath with an overhead shower, for example, or creating a wet room with limestone bathroom tiles.
Make space for little luxuries
You’re running a bubble bath for yourself (or your partner) as a treat. You fill the bath with foam, set out candles, lay out a fluffy towel and pour a glass of wine… where do you put it down, within reach of the bath? Little details like a bath you can surround with candles, a towel rail within reach of the shower or a ledge to stand a glass of wine on help transform a practical space into a decadent retreat.
Focus on what matters to you
This should be first and last, as it’s so important. What constitutes a luxurious, relaxing, enjoyable space varies enormously from person to person. If you love natural materials and the outdoors, then a wall of limestone bathroom tiles and a cascade of plants might be an ideal feature. On the other hand, if you’re a hayfever sufferer, the mere thought might make you sneeze!
Do it for you
Too many people compromise their needs because they are worried about affecting the resale value of their home. The truth is that as long as you create a pleasant, relatively practical space, the details won’t matter to a new buyer – but they will to you. This means that if you fall in love with a particular marble or limestone bathroom tile, have always wanted a spa bath or only take showers, it’s your taste you should trust.
