6 design tips to turn your small bathroom into a luxe spa experience

Renovating or improving your bathroom is a great way to increase your home’s value. Still, before you start your next project, there are factors such as design, space and functionality that you need to consider before you get to work. Here are some essential design tips for turning your small bathroom into a beautiful (and luxe) spa experience.

Re-evaluate the space you have

Your bathroom or powder room layout can significantly impact the space’s aesthetics and functionality. It’s crucial that before you start thinking big picture, you consider the placement of your bathroom elements, including your lighting fixtures and mirror, where you want your vanity to be, the shower or tub, sink, toilet and, most often forgotten, additional storage solutions. You want the room to be as functional as possible – aesthetics can come after. For example, since condominium or townhome bathrooms are typically smaller than bathrooms you would find in a single-detached home, opting for a pedestal sink can give you more floor space. Opting for this solution means you can play with experimenting with wall shelves to increase your storage space.

Decide on your aesthetic

How do you want to experience this space? Do you want to create a spa-like oasis? Or are you looking to add personality with colour and trendy design? Whatever aesthetic you choose, an expert designer can help you achieve the exact look and mood you desire. If your space is smaller, you want to opt for lighter paint colours and bright/mood-enhancing lighting to help open up the room. If you love colour, you can consider pastels or lighter variations of primary colours. Tiles and flooring are where you can add more personality, like a checkerboard or heated flooring with ceramic or porcelain tiles.

Introduce tranquil accessories

Even a small bathroom can feel like a tranquil sanctuary. Introduce some greenery. Bathrooms tend to have lower light, high humidity and warmer temperatures, so finding the right houseplants is essential. Depending on your space’s size, use potted plants on counters and floors or hang plants from the ceiling. Aloe Vera, begonia, ivy and spider plants work well in this environment, but even a tiny potted vase with fresh flowers will completely transform the room.

Swap out your fabric bathmat (which can get damp) for a slatted wooden mat that ups the spa feel in your space, and as you take a minute in your tub, hang up some artwork you love. People often don’t think about the bathroom walls as a smart space for artwork, but it can add fantastic visual appeal.

Buy a new showerhead

It’s immediate luxury. For those who don’t have a large soaking tub, a luxurious shower head with multiple settings, rainfall or a handheld can transform the whole experience.

Add a shower or bathtub caddy

The easiest way to help store your bathroom essentials is to keep everything organized (and not scattered all over the floor). It’s remarkable the effect of how calming a clean space can feel. Etsy has some fabulous wooden versions that I love.

Add fragrance

I love this new idea of hanging a bunch of eucalyptus over my showerhead. The shower’s steam releases the eucalyptus plant’s essential oils, which can work to clear congestion and inflammation. Plus, the scent is divine. All you have to do is tie the stems together with a rubber band and tie them to your shower head. It can last up to two months until it dries out. Otherwise, many other essential oils work to reduce stress and amp relaxation, and they can give that sensory experience of being at a spa. Vanilla, tea tree oil and Neroli are all lovely. Also, consider scented soaps, lotions and candles to set a restful mood.