Could 2023 Be The Year Of The ‘Spathroom?’

The unstoppable rise of the bathroom as a luxury home spa has perhaps reached its ultimate destination in 2023, with the advent of the so-called ‘spathroom.’ This is a portmanteau word combining spa and bathroom, and is the current darling of interior designers.

It seems that there is no end in sight to the reinvention of the bathroom from a purely functional space, to a place of beauty and sanctuary where we can refresh our bodies, minds, and souls. Whether you are just curious or planning your very own spathroom, here’s a quick look at what it involves!

The vintage vibe

Vintage style bathrooms that take us back to an era when the pace of life seemed to be slower and gentler can work well for a sanctuary style bathroom. A classic way to achieve this look is to combine chessboard flooring with a large freestanding bathtub that entices you to have a long indulgent soak. 

For an extra charming touch, combine it with Victorian style sanitaryware, scalloped blinds, and brass fixtures and fittings. 

Dopamine colour drenching

For many years, spa style bathrooms have had strictly neutral colour schemes. This can still work well if you are a fan of clean minimalist spaces, and it may be wise if you are planning to sell your house in a few years’ time. 

However, stronger colours for bathrooms are now an increasingly popular choice. Some colourful tiles in electric blue or fern green can help to uplift your mood. Warmer colours in dusky pink, terracotta, or mocha are striking and unusual choices for bathrooms and work surprisingly well. Patterned botanical wallpapers are also a great alternative. 

How to get the spathroom effect without remodelling your bathroom

Completely overhauling your bathroom may not be a realistic option. However, it is still possible to get that touch of luxury with a few simple changes. Investing in some thick fluffy towels and bathrobes can help you to get that hotel spa feeling every time you step out of the shower.

Another good tip is to bring in a few choice items such as diffusers, scented candles, and greenery to personalise the space and help you to feel calm and relaxed. This works especially well if your bathroom is otherwise rather minimalist and clinical. 

However, take care to be selective in the items you pick, as part of the sense of serenity of a sanctuary spa comes from a neat and orderly environment. A good decluttering session can be very therapeutic and it will also make your bathroom easier to keep clean, which is also important for our sense of mental wellbeing.