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RELAX IN A “SPA” BATHROOM
Exquisite hotels have provided them for years, but the look and feel of
a “spa” bathroom has entered the mainstream. You may not have multiple
showerheads, travertine surfaces, or over-the-top faucets in your home,
but with reasonable adjustments you can create a serene atmosphere that
mimics the feel of a mineral springs health spa.
A cool, clear wall color is the driving force of this look. The green of
beach glass, a pale blue of aqua sky, of the lightest shade of sun
yellow would bring nature inside. If these colors don’t blend well with
the wall color outside the bathroom, then use a light pearly gray, or a
creamy French vanilla. Add a sheer blue to the ceiling to bring the sky
inside.
Think of adding light ceramic tile if it’s time to replace your
flooring. Use large tiles (16”to20”), and have them installed on the
diagonal to expand the visual space. The look is much more appealing
than the tight grid of small tiles.
If you aren’t replacing the flooring, make sure to use light colored
bath mats that blend with the walls.
Natural maple cabinetry extends the light feeling, but cherry wood is
another great choice if you want a rich contrast to pale walls. Outdated
cabinets can be sanded and re-stained, or painted white for a fresh
look.
Exalting the plumbing is a trend with the newer sinks that are supported
on metal legs with a wood front short enough to reveal the gleam of a
curving elbow. The ultimate look is to install a glass bowl sink on top
of a sleek cabinet.
While it’s acceptable to mix metals in larger spaces in your home, try
to keep the metal in your bathroom the same. Chrome and brushed nickel
are good choices for the spa look.
Buy as large a showerhead as you can afford, and think of adding a hand
held sprayer to the mix. A new faucet works magic on an older sink. Make
sure the spout is arched high enough for easier use.
Upgrading metal fixtures will give any bathroom a quality look. Make
sure towel racks and lighting are of matching quality.
Splurge on thick terry cloth towels. White or cream is a good color
choice. Adding a monogram is a primo touch. Hanging a pair of thick
terry robes on decorative door hooks is downright luxurious.
The shower curtain is of course white cotton or linen. Find one with
large metal grommets to glide over the metal pole.
Counter tops should be uncluttered except for sleek new soap and lotion
dispensers with matching metal tops, a few aromatherapy candles, and
some hand towels. Floating a flower in a small clear bowl adds a special
effect.
Tubes of beautifully colored bath gels and exfoliates make us feel
pampered, and smelling like a summer breeze. Add liberal quantities in
the shower and add matching lotions and light body sprays on your
counter. Don’t forget the loufa sponge and you have just entered spa
territory.
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