The clients, both retired police officers, envisioned a private sanctuary where they could unwind and enjoy peaceful moments in the comfort of their own spa bathroom. They turned to Payal Bansal, head of Buffalo, NY-based Payal Bansal Interior Design, to create a tranquil environment that would evoke treasured vacations in the Mediterranean region.
Making Space for a Spa Bathroom
The designer expanded the drab existing bathroom by annexing a small bedroom to create a more spacious retreat, measuring 17-feet 4-inches by 11-feet. “This presented its own set of challenges,” said Bansal. “When we installed a pocket door connecting the bathroom to the primary bedroom, we had to ensure a beam remained centered on the new entry way.”
Enlarging the room let the designer incorporate aging-in-place elements that ensures the spa bathroom will remain safe and comfortable for years to come. Wider doorways and a generous open-floor area meant reworking the layout multiple times to maintain the balance between functionality and design.
Health and Wellness Features
Bansal used hypoallergenic surfaces and low-VOC materials throughout the space, ensuring a healthy environment free from harmful emissions. Additionally, advanced leak detection technology was implemented to safeguard against potential water damage, enhancing peace of mind and maintaining the integrity of the luxurious retreat.
Tech Touches in the Spa Bathroom
The light fixtures above the tub feature built-in speakers, controlled by Alexa voice commands that can adjust the lighting color and brightness, as well as play the clients’ favorite music, creating the perfect ambiance for relaxation.
“For the couple, this renovation was about more than just upgrading a space,” said the designer. “It was about creating a new chapter in their lives, a testament to their love and shared dreams. Their new bathroom is not only a reflection of their taste and style but also a daily reminder of the beauty of slowing down and savoring life’s simple pleasures.”
Sources
Design: Payal Bansal, Payal Bansal Interior Design; Contractor: Mike Walkowiak; Photography: Sarah Wintle Photography; Cabinets and Cabinet Hardware: Kitchen Advantage; Faucets, Shower Fittings, Tub Filler: Delta; Heated Floor System: Ditra-heat; Lighting: Razon; Mirrors: West Elm; Paint: Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams; Sinks, Toilet: Kohler; Tile: Homestone Gallery; Towel Warmer: Heatgene; Tub: Carver Tubs; Ventilation: Panasonic
