Transforming a bathroom into a relaxing and inviting living space is a popular trend in interior design. With some creative touches, you can upgrade your bathroom from purely functional to a spa-like oasis. This week, we explore three beautiful bathrooms that feel more like living spaces thanks to thoughtful design elements. From luxurious materials to clever layouts, these rooms prove that bathrooms can be so much more than just a place to get clean.
Embrace Natural Light and Greenery
One of the keys to making a bathroom feel like a living space is to maximize natural light. Floor-to-ceiling windows, skylights and glass block walls allow sunlight to pour in. Strategically placed mirrors also bounce and amplify the light.
Incorporating houseplants is another way to liven up the space. Their fresh greenery instantly makes the room more inviting and relaxing. Ferns, orchids and succulents are great options as they thrive in humid bathroom environments. Hang trailing vines or place potted plants on the vanity, windowsill or shower shelves.
For example, this airy bathroom features both floor-to-ceiling windows and an entire living wall of tropical foliage. The abundant natural light and verdant greenery transform the room into an indoor oasis. The spa-like vibe is emphasized by the pebble flooring, textured stone walls and free-standing tub.
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A bathroom with floor-to-ceiling windows and an entire living wall creates an indoor oasis. (Photo Credit: The Spruce)
Include Seating and Storage
Most bathrooms focus solely on functional fixtures like the toilet, shower and vanity. To make the space more inhabitable, incorporate seating and storage.
Seating like a chair, ottoman or built-in bench provides a place to relax, read a book or enjoy a long soak in the tub. Meanwhile, well-designed storage such as cabinets, shelves and drawers allow you to neatly tuck away towels, toiletries and other bathroom essentials.
For example, this bathroom features a upholstered bench and open shelving. The seating creates a cozy spot for towel drying or getting dressed. While the shelf unit supplies storage and displays decorative items above the vanity. The additions make the bathroom feel like an extension of the master bedroom.
Incorporating a bench and open shelving adds seating and storage to make this bathroom feel more like a living space. (Photo Credit: Hearst Apps)
Infuse Personality with Art, Color and Texture
Don’t be afraid to add personality to your bathroom through art, color and texture. Paint or wallpaper a vibrant accent wall. Hang artwork you love. Add pops of color with towels, rugs and accessories. Select fixtures and surfaces that inject visual interest through materials like wood, marble or tile.
For instance, this bathroom gets its lively character from glossy emerald walls and graphic art prints. The uniqueCombination creates an inviting, gallery-like environment. Meanwhile, the natural wood vanity, stone tiles and woven bench add warmth through varied textures.
Vibrant green walls and abstract art prints give this bathroom loads of personality. (Photo Credit: Pinterest)
Questions and Answers
What are some ways to make a bathroom feel more like a living space?
Some effective ways to make a bathroom feel more like a living space include maximizing natural light through windows and skylights, bringing in greenery with plants, incorporating seating and storage, using vibrant colors and wall decor, and adding visual texture and warmth with wood, tile, or other natural materials. Focusing on comfort and design rather than just function helps transform the space.
How do you add seating to a bathroom?
Popular seating options for bathrooms include upholstered benches, stools, slipper chairs or ottomans. Built-in window seats also work well. Place seating near the vanity for getting ready, by the tub for relaxation or in a reading nook. Make sure to consider placement so the seating doesn’t interfere with opening and closing doors.
What type of wall decor works best in bathrooms?
Water-resistant art prints, photographs, paintings or wall decals are great options for adding character to bathroom walls. Hang them around the vanity or tub. Avoid paper or canvas pieces which can easily be damaged by moisture. Also, consider sealing, laminating or framing pieces to protect them.
Should you put houseplants in the bathroom?
Many houseplants actually thrive in humid bathroom environments. Great options include ferns, orchids, mosses, succulents, philodendrons, aloe vera, Boston ferns and anthuriums. Place them in a bright window or on the vanity or shelves. Avoid direct contact with water from showers and tubs which can damage their roots.
How do you add storage to a small bathroom?
For compact bathrooms, look for narrow shelving units, corner cabinets, over-the-toilet racks or freestanding drawer units. Install hanging wall shelves or rail systems. Opt for a sink vanity with built-in storage cabinets. Also utilize the back of the door with over-the-door hooks and hanging organizers.
Conclusion
With some creativity and smart design choices, your bathroom can be so much more than just a utilitarian space. Embrace natural light, houseplants, seating, storage, color and texture to craft a bathroom that provides a relaxing, living space vibe. Focus on creating an inviting atmosphere you want to spend time in. Just because it’s a smaller room doesn’t mean your bathroom can’t have a big impact. A well-designed bathroom leaves you feeling refreshed and energized, not just clean. Use these tips to transform your own bathroom into a welcoming oasis.
