Creating a spa environment in a bathroom is more than just luxurious fixtures – it’s crafting a serene and relaxing space that promotes tranquility and rejuvenation. As a consultant at Farrey’s Lighting, Bath, Kitchen and Hardware, I have worked with many interior designers to bring customers’ projects to life. A great example of how designers can create a spa-like environment in a home is beautifully illustrated in a recent project by one of our customers, interior designer Katherine Saldana of Squadra Interiors.
To bring the spa into the home, designers should incorporate elements that promote relaxation and tranquility such as calming color palettes, natural materials and luxurious fixtures like rain showerheads and freestanding tubs. Soft lighting can also be used to enhance the serene atmosphere, making the bathroom a perfect retreat from the daily hustle and bustle.
Saldana’s bathroom project was for a family who had moved from Venezuela to Miami. This was their first renovation in Miami, and they wanted to infuse their new home with their personal touch. The apartment needed to be updated, having not been renovated in over 20 years, and the main bathroom needed a significant transformation.
“We designed the bathtub and shower together to sit on a platform with LED lighting underneath,” Saldana explained. “This setup created a focal point and added a touch of luxury. Using wood tiles mixed with Calacatta gold marble provided a balance of elegance and organic warmth. This aligned perfectly with my emphasis on natural materials and soft lighting to create a tranquil ambiance.”
The choice of plumbing fixtures also plays a critical role in achieving a spa-like feel. In this project, unique faucets with mirrors on top were selected, which reflect the beautiful wood frame around the custom-made vanity. This not only enhances the elegance but also integrates functionality with aesthetic appeal.
When designing guest bathrooms, aim for a timeless yet contemporary and warm feel. In this project, Saldana chose wood tiles and 3D tiles to achieve this balance. Natural materials and textures can create a sense of warmth and timelessness, making the space stylish and inviting.
Another opportunity to showcase creativity is the powder room. This space can serve as a canvas for creative expression, with vibrant wallpapers, unique hardware and statement lighting. A well-designed powder room can impress guests and add personality to a home while being functional. The client wanted something unique and out of the box for this project, so Saldana proposed a ceiling-mounted faucet with a custom-made black marble built-in sink. They selected a unique suede skull wallpaper to achieve the “wow” effect. “Our client loved skulls, so we found the perfect wallpaper to put this bathroom together,” the designer said.
Creating a spa-like bathroom involves using natural materials, soft lighting and luxurious fixtures to promote relaxation and tranquility. Working with talented designers allows us to push the boundaries of what we can achieve, creating genuinely personalized spaces for clients. At Farrey’s, we are committed to providing our clients with the best products and design solutions. Whether they want to create a spa-like retreat or a bold and edgy powder room, thoughtful design and the correct elements can make all the difference.
—By Joe Reynolds, Farrey’s Lighting, Bath, Kitchen and Hardware consultant
