How to design your own spa-like bathroom

By Linda Mazur
April 03, 2022

Let’s face it – we all would love a big, spa-like bathroom to start and end our days, but not all of us are afforded the luxury of square footage for a large soaker tub and walk-in shower in our bathrooms. If you live in a small home and need to keep the traditional tub-shower combination due to space constraints, don’t feel like a great looking bathroom is out of reach.

Maximizing space

Small bathrooms can definitely be a challenge. Try as you may, there is only so much space to fit in all the necessities, attempt to provide adequate storage solutions and still create the Instagram-worthy bathroom everyone wants. Smaller homes and condos are often outfitted with only a single full bathroom, so a tub-shower is a great two-in-one space-saving solution. This combination makes the most of limited space by providing all the benefits, just in a compact footprint. They can be very cost-effective compared to a separate tub and shower option when renovating, and open extra space for a large vanity and more enhanced storage.

So, we know all the practicalities of a tub-shower combination for your small bathroom, but there is still the lingering desire for a luxe looking spa-like space. Modern tub-shower combinations come in a wide variety of attractive designs and styles to suit your particular design and needs. You do not need to limit yourself to pre-fabricated, all-in-one units. Tub-showers can be completely customized from the size, style and colour of tub you choose, to your preferred choice of faucets and fittings.

Detachable or rain shower head? Gold, nickel or black? Traditional or modern? It’s entirely up to you. When it comes to selecting a glass door to make your space feel bigger or for a private enclosure, your choice depends on your budget and comfort level.

Countless selections

Another way to customize is through tile, and with countless selections available, it’s easy to get inspired and create a wonderful looking bathroom. From monochromatic elegance to bold colours, rustic wood-grained tile to 3D tiles, to textured tiles and fun patterns, there is an endless array of possibilities that can elevate the simple tub-shower combination. If you’re on the hunt for a more upscale approach, why not try a large format tile with a beautiful natural marble vein; not only will it make your space look and feel more luxurious, it also limits the grout lines.

If you feel like you have been compromised by being dealt a small bathroom with a tub-shower in your home, think again! With all the possibilities available today, that high-end spa-like bathroom is definitely within reach. Homes without bathtubs can be challenging on resale, so embrace your tub-shower complement and get inspired to create an amazing space for your home.

About Linda Mazur

Linda Mazur is an award-winning, nationally publicized designer and Principal of Linda Mazur Design Group. With almost two decades of experience this in demand multi-disciplinary design firm is known for creating relaxed, stylish spaces and full-scale design builds within Toronto, the GTA and throughout Canada. lindamazurdesign.com @LindaMazurGroup

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