Throughout history, the importance of treating oneself to a luxurious bath is a recurring theme. Beyond the fundamental need for hygiene, people have long been drawn to the restorative effects of relaxation and pampering. Basic and fundamental to life is the need for hygiene, and throwbacks are evident also to the restorative effects of relaxation and pampering. There are cities that owe their very founding and name to their strategic location near thermal springs and natural features that create the perfect spa environments. Last spring I visited Bath, England, which is home to an elaborate system of baths and spas designed and used initially by the Romans during their heyday. I found many interesting comparisons to our modern iterations of personal bath retreats.

Your master bathroom is the most intimate of spaces in your home. The essence of experience should be one of sanctuary… a private retreat from the world. The bathroom design should safely support the many functional needs while providing a relaxing environment. It is more specifically an extension of your master bedroom, a personal enclave which reflects your taste and style while blending seamlessly with the décor of your home.

PLANNING OPTIONS
Are you considering renovating your bathroom? The choices for fixtures, materials and features can be confusing and daunting. As a starting place, I suggest creating a wish list and gathering favorite images from websites and magazines for ideas. Establishing a budget and a commitment to work within it helps to set limits and guides design choices. Keep it simple by setting project priorities.

Although not always possible for meeting specific objectives, the most cost-effective approach is to reuse the locations of existing fixtures resulting in a minimum amount of plumbing and electrical modifications. This will expedite the work and reduce disruption and is in essence a more cosmetic project, rather than major construction. That said, replacing tile and fixtures is no small expense or task. In rooms where space is at a premium, some of my clients are opting to remove the bathtub altogether and install a generously proportioned shower. The installation of dual bathing areas is a nice option for a larger shower and may include rain heads, shower systems with multiple body sprays, and adjustable or handheld faucets. Steam shower systems are gaining popularity and provide many health benefits.

If plenty of space is available, I frequently suggest the plan include a whirlpool or tub even if it will be used infrequently. The energy of the bathroom is transformed into the spa-like ambience almost instantly by its very presence. For jetted spas, air-driven systems are a great hygienic option. A good budget compromise is to install a soaking tub rather than a jetted spa while spending the savings on special features for the more frequently used shower. An elegant choice, if suitable to the room layout, is the inclusion of a sculptural freestanding tub that can become the centerpiece of the room. Aromatherapy and chromatherapy are additional options for the ultimate spa experience. Want to plug in your iPod, watch TV or bask in the glow of a warming fireplace while bathing? No problem!

MATERIALS AND COLOR
Materials and color can take any direction that is to your liking, but a few guidelines can point the way. Surface colors and materials, especially those on the walls, are reflected into the mirror and ultimately onto your face. This color reflection can enhance and complement skin tones or produce effects that can be less than flattering. Careful choices are important, especially for permanent materials. Warm and cool colors can be artfully blended to create stunning schemes. Rules, of course, are meant to be broken, so don’t be shy if you’re inclined toward the bold and dramatic. Lighting plays a significant role in the context of color and can change the effects considerably.

Tile is a major element of the design palette and the primary material dominating the look and feel of the bathroom. Manufacturers are continually outdoing themselves and each other, expanding choices of sizes, finishes, colors and textural effects. Tiles seem to be getting larger, and conversely, smaller. Tiny mosaic tiles are offered in a full spectrum of colors and finishes such as natural stone, metallics and glass. With the availability of selections from the best around the globe, options for dramatic effects with mosaic murals include floral and geometric motifs, gradient effects and classic rug patterns or medallions for floor insets. New offerings include large scale floor and wall tiles that can be used to create totally new looks and interesting patterns but should be used with caution as scale plays an important role in appropriate selection. Larger tiles install with fewer joints and less grout which equals lower maintenance.

“GREENING” YOUR BATHROOM
Water and energy saving strategies are playing a significant role in new product offerings. Manufacturers are on a constant quest to provide the desired bath experience while meeting consumer and governmental conservation demands. For instance, Delta promotes its H2O kinetic technology with the goal to deliver shower power at 1.5 gallons of water per minute that feels like the 2.5 gallons per minute of conventional systems, resulting in up to a 36 percent decrease in water consumption. Options for tankless or on-demand water heaters continue to grow and are a great alternative to conventional water heaters. Water is heated only as it is used resulting in significant energy savings. They are also a great space-saving alternative.

Lighting is one of the most often overlooked but crucial design elements in any bathroom. Task, ambient and mood lighting are all essential components of good lighting design. Mini chandeliers are popular as a feature element and can create a strong design statement. It’s a good idea to provide more light than thought necessary and use dimmers to control energy usage and create specific effects. High efficiency LED lighting is making its way to the bathroom for additional energy saving options.

RELAX AND ENJOY
Elaborate or simple, traditional or contemporary, your master bathroom is one of the most important spaces in your home and can be a valuable selling feature when that time comes. Create it, and spend quiet moments to relax there when time permits, enjoying the benefits of your private retreat!

Vicki O’Neal, owner of FORM & FUNCTION, provides commercial and residential interior and landscape design. She is a professional member of ASID, VA Certified Interior Designer (CID), Master Gardener, and a VA Certified Landscape Designer and Horticulturist. (804) 897-8558. www.form-and-function.us.

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