How the focus on relaxation is making wellness key to bathroom design

As consumers increasingly use their bathrooms for relaxing, products that promote wellness are becoming more popular. Nicola Hanley explores the trend.

According to the 2025 UK Houzz Bathroom Trends Study, nearly half of respondents now turn to their bathroom for relaxation.“We’re seeing a notable shift toward larger bathroom footprints, suggesting that homeowners may be rethinking the role of this room in the home,” says Marine Sargsyan, Houzz staff economist. “Rather than focusing purely on function, many are turning to professionals for help creating spaces that support relaxation and daily comfort, with changes to showers and layouts playing a central role.”

It’s a trend that is picking up pace, with manufacturers reporting a rise in demand for bathroom products that support wellness alongside hygiene and convenience. 

“Many of us are seeking to transform our bathroom space into a spa-like sanctuary, seeking features that do not just offer functionality but additional wellness benefits, premium performance and luxury finishes for that show-stopping final look,” says Lewis Neathey, leader, marketing & product management UK at Grohe UK, Lixil Europe.

According to Alvin Biggs, MD at RAK Ceramics UK, the trend has been fuelled by the pandemic. “The bathroom is now more of a sanctuary than ever before,” he says. “Self-care has become really important since the pandemic.”

Yiota Toumba, UK senior designer for the Villeroy & Boch Group, agrees that lifestyle changes are having an effect. “The rise in wellness products really comes down to people wanting to bring a sense of escapism, calm and self-care into their everyday lives. With more of us spending time at home, especially since remote or hybrid working has become the norm, creating a peaceful, spa-like bathroom has become a priority.”

She also notes how people are more aware of their health and wellbeing now and are actively seeking products that can help to reduce stress and improve comfort at home. “And it’s not just about indulgence – there’s also a strong desire for products that are kind to the environment, so wellness and sustainability are going hand in hand.”

VitrA’s Ruth Davies agrees that wellness bathrooms are no longer focused solely on luxury and indulgence. “Today’s go-to wellness products are less about luxury for its own sake and more about enhancing well-being through intentional, sensory design. By combining smart technology with calming aesthetics, consumers can curate bathroom spaces that feel restorative, indulgent and uniquely personal.”

Cleanliness is key too, according to 78% of respondents in the 2025 Houzz Bathroom Trends Study, who said that it was the most important element in promoting relaxation in the bathroom.

So which products are consumers turning to in their quest to create bathrooms centred around wellness? “A freestanding bath is the epitome of bathroom indulgence, perfect for self-care and promoting wellness,” says Tanna Molyneux, product manager, Bathrooms to Love by PJH. “Double-ended baths also allow for two-person soaking and the ultimate in shared relaxation for a wellness-inspired retreat.”      

BagnoDesign’s brand manager Kelly Olsen believes showering is key to creating a wellness environment. “Showering is now seen as just as important as a freestanding bath in cultivating a spa-style bathroom,” she says. “Like many elements of bathroom design, it really comes down to personal preference and for many consumers showering is definitely perceived as promoting relaxation and wellness as well as rejuvenation.”

Grohe’s Neathey also sees showering as central to the trend. “For wellness-focused bathrooms, mid-market consumers prefer oversized showerheads with multiple spray patterns and side sprays for a restorative experience. At the premium end, ceiling-mounted showers with wall jets offer personalised spa-like experiences, combining powerful or gentle sprays with lighting, sound, and steam, all controllable via touchscreen or Bluetooth.”

VitrA’s Davies believes shower toilets are becoming ever more appealing: “Although less glamourous, hygiene has also become an increasing priority for consumers,” she says, pointing out that innovative tech and smart features are leading the way.

Villeroy & Boch Group’s Toumba agrees that technology will continue to shape wellness-inspired bathrooms. “Bathrooms are becoming smarter and more intuitive, making daily routines feel effortless and even a little indulgent. From personalised controls to soothing design, they support both mind, body and soul. Parallel to that, sustainable materials and water-saving features let people enjoy these comforts while looking after the planet. The bathroom isn’t just functional – it’s a true sanctuary, where technology, nature, and relaxation come together.”