As consumers crave an escape from the stresses of day-to-day life, interest in spa-like bathroom spaces has soared. Nicola Hanley takes a look at the trend and the latest products in this market.
There’s no doubt about it, the last few years have certainly been stressful. But if there’s one good thing to have come out of the pandemic, it has to be the renewed interest in optimising personal health and wellbeing. It’s a lifestyle trend that is making its mark on the bathroom, where consumers are increasingly looking to create spa-style spaces centred around wellness.
“Lockdown was a pivotal moment for bathrooms, when the requirement for a space to focus on your physical and mental wellbeing became essential,” says Nigel Palmer, head of communications marketing for House of Rohl.
Lewis Neathey, leader, product management UK Grohe, Lixil EMENA, agrees. “Design trends have moved towards creating spaces that promote relaxation, mindfulness and stress reduction. Traditionally seen as a utilitarian space for personal hygiene, bathrooms are now increasingly regarded as a sanctuary for revitalisation, rejuvenation and self care.”
For Ideal Standard UK’s senior designer Yiota Toumba, indulgent tubs are a key ingredient to any spa-style bathroom. “Larger freestanding baths are naturally the first stop in creating a space dedicated to relaxation.”
But if you think that means showers are out, think again. In 2024, Grohe conducted a survey that found 64% of respondents associated showering with relaxation, 41% with wellness and 40% with ‘me time’.
Personalisation seems to be key when it comes to creating a spa-style retreat. “Customisation has become more important for consumers, especially those looking at higher-end, spa-like spaces,” continues Ideal Standard’s Toumba. “For example, newer shower systems offer more variety than ever before. Different spray modes are now standard in many overhead and handheld shower systems with the fine droplet spray modes particularly favoured by those wanting a more spa-like experience.”
Designers looking to create a calming, zen-like bathroom space are finding more inspiration from biophillic design, comments Julie Lockwood, product manager at Bathrooms to Love by PJH. “The inspiration of nature and biophillic design remains a big influence on bathroom design based on the contribution this makes in creating tranquil and relaxing bathing spaces – a theme growing in popularity all the time.”
While relaxation and self care are the major driving forces behind this trend, Ripples Towcester designer Kelli Karella sees another factor playing an ever bigger part. “I believe the maintenance aspect to this style is also key to its increased popularity,” she says. “The clean lines and simplicity of the products specified means customers get the added luxury of a low maintenance bathroom with easy cleaning and upkeep, a topic a lot of customers express is an issue they want to combat.”
Jorge Hernandez, head of design at Crosswater, believes luxury taps into the pampering element associated with these bathrooms. “Luxury is at the heart of a spa-inspired bathroom. Investing in premium fixtures and fittings elevates the entire space, giving it a coveted resort-like feel.”
Technology is also making its mark points out RAK Ceramics UK’s sales & marketing director Ben Bryden. “Current trends mix smart tech, like touch-screen mirrors and advanced showers, with natural elements for a calming vibe.”
And what’s next for the market? “I think we’ll see an increase in demand for products like shower toilets which offer ultimate hygiene, large fixed shower heads for refreshing rainfall effect and underfloor heating for the perfect temperature when walking around the space,” says Ripples Towcester’s Karella.
“The spa bathroom trend will likely evolve with more personalised touches and advanced tech,” continues RAK Ceramics UK’s Bryden. “Natural and sustainable materials will gain popularity and the focus will continue on blending luxury with practicality to create relaxing, unique spaces.”
