Retiring to the seaside is a dream for many, conjuring images of sunny days spent by the ocean. For one couple, that dream became a reality when they renovated their dated bathroom into a coastal oasis perfect for their laidback lifestyle. We spoke with the homeowners to learn more about the soothing, beach-inspired details they incorporated.
Choosing a Beach Motif
The homeowners knew they wanted their new bathroom to evoke the feeling of being at the beach. They chose light blue and white colors along with natural textures to create a relaxing vibe. “We love spending time at the shore, walking along the water and collecting seashells. We wanted to bring some of that peace into our home,” explained the wife.
To tie the beach theme together, they included subtle nods to life by the ocean throughout the space. From shell-shaped faucets to driftwood-inspired mirror frames, every detail whispers of sun, sand and serenity.
Selecting Soothing Materials
The material palette focuses on natural textures to enhance the coastal ambiance. The vanity countertop is a honed marble with soft grey veining that mimics the look of weathered driftwood. A mosaic marble backsplash provides a polished accent behind the sink.
“We went with mostly matte finishes to keep the space feeling calm and restful,” noted the husband. “The glossy marble backsplash adds nice contrast without being too shiny.”
For the flooring, wide-plank oak boards were chosen. The lightly variegated wood tones and visible knots add warmth and casual character to the space.
Incorporating Special Touches
Thoughtful details throughout the bathroom make this a truly custom retreat. One special feature the couple loves is the vanity’s driftwood-inspired legs. They provide an organic touch that furthers the coastal vibe.
The privacy window shade is another unique find. Made from sustainably sourced sisal, the natural fiber material filters light softly. “It looks like woven sea grass and gives us privacy without completely blocking the view and natural light,” described the wife.
Achieving a Spa-Like Feel
By selecting finishes and fixtures designed for relaxation, the homeowners were able to achieve their vision for a true retreat. The curbless shower with its wall-mounted rainfall shower head and built-in bench delivers a luxurious spa experience.
Strategic lighting, like the LED cove lights and dimmable pendants, establishes a soothing ambiance. “The lighting makes such a difference in how the space feels. We can adjust it for late night visits or to set a relaxing mood,” said the husband.
Tips for a Soothing Beach Bathroom
For homeowners looking to create their own beach-inspired bathroom sanctuary, the couple shared these top tips:
- Use light blue and white colors for walls, tile and decor accents. Avoid stark whites and opt for soft hues instead.
- Incorporate natural textures and materials like marble, oak, sisal and linen. Weathered, organic finishes are key.
- Add subtle coastal details such as driftwood, sand dollars, seashells and anchors. Just a few nods to the theme go a long way.
- Include spa-like features like rainfall showers, freestanding tubs and heated floors. These elements enhance the relaxing vibe.
- Install dimmable lighting to set the perfect tranquil ambiance day or night. Opt for soft ambient and task lighting.
“Focusing on light, natural elements and calm colors transformed our bathroom into a seaside escape that helps melt stress away,” summarized the wife. “It’s truly our at-home spa.”
For retirees and those looking to unwind, a beach-inspired bathroom like this soothing, coastal oasis offers the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate every day.
Frequently Asked Questions about Creating a Beach-Inspired Bathroom
What colors work well in a beach bathroom?
Light blues, greys, tans and white are great beach bathroom colors. Avoid bold primaries and opt for softened hues instead. Paint color names like Coastal Fog, Sandy Dune and Seashell White capture the right tones.
What flooring is best for a coastal bathroom?
Natural-looking wood, stone or ceramic tile in soft neutrals or weathered greys compliment a beach theme well. Wide-plank oak or limestone have an organic, coastal vibe. Concrete-look tile also pairs nicely.
What kind of vanity works best in a beachy bathroom?
Driftwood-inspired vanities with legs or panels made from salvaged wood or ceramic logs suit coastal décor beautifully. Shaker-style cabinets in white or light blue also coordinate with the beach theme nicely.
How do you incorporate a beach theme without being kitschy?
Avoid bold beach motifs and colors. Focus instead on natural textures, weathered materials, and subtle details like rope accents, sisal, shells and driftwood. White, blue and tan color schemes keep things sophisticated.
What are some key features of a spa-like beach bathroom?
A spacious walk-in shower with a rainfall showerhead, bench seating and neutral tiles will make your bathroom feel like a beachside spa retreat. Add in dimmable lighting, heated floors, towel warmers and a freestanding soaking tub.
What are some budget-friendly ways to get a beach bathroom look?
Use a peel-and-stick wallpaper with a coastal motif as an easy backsplash alternative. Also, paint builder-grade cabinets a light driftwood tone rather than replacing them. Incorporate touches like sisal placemats, shells in a vase, and beach prints for affordable pops of theme.
Conclusion
A beach-inspired bathroom provides a calming, spa-like space to start and end each day. For active retirees who want their home to feel like a seaside escape, the soothing color schemes, natural textures, and subtle coastal details of this design deliver an oasis for unwinding. With strategic lighting, luxurious shower features, and special customized touches, the space evokes the feeling of relaxing days spent seaside. For homeowners looking to create their own beach bathroom retreat, focusing on light, organic elements and a soft neutral palette is key for achieving vacation-worthy style.
