Interiors
How to Create a Spa-Like Bathroom at Home
There’s a reason we seek out the serene calm of a spa when we need to reset. It's the soothing design, the thoughtful finishes, the sense of retreat that invites us to unwind. What if that feeling didn’t have to be reserved for occasional getaways? With the right design choices, it’s entirely possible to create a spa-like bathroom at home, one that calms the senses and transforms daily routines into moments of mindful luxury.
Whether you’re planning a full renovation or a simple refresh, we’ve curated some of the key elements that can bring spa-style serenity into your own space, with inspiration from Style Sourcebook mood boards and our product library.
Design: Gmelli Design | Photography: Alyne Media
Embrace a Soft and Natural Palette
A spa-inspired bathroom starts with a calming colour foundation. Think creamy whites, soft greys, warm taupes, and muted greens. Using tones that bring a sense of harmony and connection to nature really helps to create a relaxing, spa-like feel.
We’ve already spoken about how the Mocha Mousse Palette from the 2025 Pantone Awards is timeless. It’s a perfect example of how earthy browns and muted neutrals can create warmth without overwhelming the space. Use these tones on walls, tiles, and cabinetry for an enveloping effect. Pair with textures like brushed stone or honed marble for a luxe, organic finish.
Incorporating greens into the colour palette is always a good idea. If you ask us, you could use Tuscano Green Moon Structured Textured Tile or Fire Fingers Mist Gloss Mosaic Tile from Beaumont Tiles, which incorporates these tones perfectly into any space and gives that spa-like feel.
Elevate with Statement Tapware
Tapware can set the tone for the entire space. While chrome may feel clinical, choosing finishes like brushed brass, gunmetal or aged bronze adds depth and sophistication.
Look to ABI Interiors’ Milani collection in brushed brass or Beaumont Tiles' Vivid Slimline in gunmetal for options that blend elegance with functionality. Softly curved profiles, wall-mounted mixers and rainfall shower heads can instantly elevate the experience.
Pro tip: Coordinate your tapware with your accessories. Think towel rails, shower shelves, and even door hardware, for a seamless, cohesive look.
Design: YDM Design Studio | Photography: Elise Scott
Design: YDM Design Studio | Photography: Elise Scott
Prioritise Lighting and Ambience
Lighting plays a pivotal role in setting the mood. Spa bathrooms are never flooded with harsh overhead lights. Instead, aim for a layered lighting plan, incorporating ambient, task, and accent lighting.
Wall sconces with frosted glass, LED strip lighting behind mirrors, and dimmable downlights allow you to tailor the brightness depending on the time of day or your mood. We love the Hunter Wall Sconce by Cafe Lighting & Living for its warm, diffused glow and timeless style.
Mood board tip: Include lighting to understand how materials will reflect under different lighting tones (warm white vs. cool white).
Design: Rose Co By Design | Photography: Alyne Media
Design: Rose Co By Design | Photography: Alyne Media
Choose Tactile Finishes
Texture is key in a spa-like space. From natural stone basins to timber vanities and handmade tiles, tactile materials help ground the space and add layers of interest.
Loughlin Furniture’s solid timber vanities add instant character and work beautifully with terrazzo tiles or Kit Kat mosaics from partners like TileCloud or Beaumont Tiles. Pair with Duroclass round basins for a softened edge and luxury feel.
You can also integrate other curved forms to soften the space. Think arched mirrors, rounded bath edges, and pill-shaped wall niches. The result? A space that feels relaxed and gently cocooning.
Image credit: The Designory | The Quarter Acre
Add Wellness-Focused Touches
A spa bathroom isn’t just about how it looks, it’s about how it feels. Incorporate wellness-inspired details that encourage ritual and relaxation.
Freestanding baths from Fienza, especially those in matte white or soft blush, instantly evoke luxury. Their concrete baths are a stunning fit for a spa-like bathroom. Pair with a timber bath caddy, fluffy towels, and aromatic bath soaks. A stool or bench in natural teak offers a place to rest candles, books or oils. Add gorgeous lotions from al.ive body which helps a bathroom to feel as good as it looks, too. For a daily dose of calm, integrate indoor plants and allow natural light to filter in wherever possible.
Design: YDM Design Studio | Photography: Elise Scott
Design: YDM Design Studio | Photography: Elise Scott
Design with Functionality in Mind
True luxury lies in ease. Use your Style Sourcebook mood board to plan not only your colour palette and materials, but also your layout and storage.
Recessed shower niches, floating vanities, and clever storage behind mirrored cabinets keep clutter at bay. Try curved cabinets from Duroclass to elevate your projects. Opt for underfloor heating, soft-close drawers and touch-light mirrors for everyday convenience that feels indulgent.
Design: Rose Co By Design | Photography: Alyne Media
Curate Your Sanctuary Mood Board
The best place to start is with a visual mood board that brings your dream spa bathroom to life. Try dragging and dropping products to plan your entire look.
Need help getting started? Browse curated projects by interior designers who have already created a spa-at-home. See home tours for more inspiration, including YDM Studio’s Bonbeach Residence, where soft walnut cabinetry, green mosaic tiling, and gold accents create a timeless, tranquil feel.
Ready to Retreat Into Calm?
Designing a spa-like bathroom at home is about more than just aesthetics; it’s about creating a daily space that nurtures you. Whether you're indulging in a weekly soak or simply enjoying a peaceful morning routine, the right design choices can transform your bathroom into a personal sanctuary.
Create your spa-like bathroom through our product library, and bring it to life through our mood board tool and Project Studio.
