Who doesn’t dream of having a relaxing spa-like experience without leaving the comfort of home? With some simple upgrades, you can easily transform your existing shower into a luxurious retreat. By installing an overhead rainfall showerhead, adding seated storage, using strategic lighting and bringing in some decorative touches, that standard shower enclosure can become a heavenly oasis.
In this article, we’ll explore easy ways to give your shower a high-end spa aesthetic. Let’s look at ideas like installing large rainfall showerheads, incorporating teak benches or ceramic tile niches, using ambient colors and dimmable lighting, and accessorizing with plants, art and essential oils. Read on for tips that will have you excited to shower!
Rainfall Showerheads
One of the fastest ways to give your bathroom a spa vibe is by installing an overhead rainfall shower fixture. These showerheads are designed to mimic the feeling of bathing in a gentle summer rain, with wide water coverage for a relaxing, all-encompassing experience.
Many rainfall shower options come in large, decadent sizes – ranging from 8-10 inches across. This wide diameter, coupled with adjustable body jets, provides that lush spa shower so many crave. The water pressure feels sublime as well, with some high-end models offering different settings from a light mist to a more intense waterfall spray.
When it comes to finishings, the choices are endless – from polished chrome and brushed nickel to oil-rubbed bronze and glossy white. You can easily match your rainfall showerhead to existing bathroom hardware and decor. Installation is relatively simple too – with most models designed for easy DIY upgrades. Just make sure to check the measurements ahead of time so your new fixture fits properly within the shower enclosure.
Once installed, you can accentuate the spa ambience by decorating the wall and ceiling space around this statement piece. Try backlighting it with recessed lighting or lining the area with marble tile, natural stone or waterproof wallpaper. Your rainfall showerhead will end up being the shining start of your new spa retreat!
Seating and Storage Solutions
Another way to emulate that luxury spa feeling is to incorporate seating right into your shower design. This gives you a place to relax, decompress and even shave your legs more comfortably. For safety, waterproof shower benches made of teak wood slats or easy-to-clean ceramic and stone are best. These materials can withstand exposure to moisture without risking mold or damage over time.
You have options for built-in corner benches or standalone stools in a variety of shapes and sizes. Backless teak stools allow water to easily flow underneath, while a tiled L-shaped seat integrate seamlessly into the wall design. For a more glamorous style, try an upholstered bench cushion in a vibrant print or color, using a completely waterproof material that can be easily wiped down. This unexpected pop of texture and color elevates the overall spa aesthetic.
In addition to seating, having adequate storage space is key for clutter-free nirvana. Recess shelving into the shower walls for neatly stacking towels, bath oils and cleaning supplies. Or install a wall-mounted caddy with woven bins for holding all those petite personal care items. A corner niche with an inset shelf at varying heights presents another option for both open and concealed storage while adding textural interest.
Ambient Lighting Sets the Mood
They don’t call it “mood lighting” for nothing! The lighting you choose can make or break the overall luxury atmosphere you’re trying to achieve in your spa shower retreat. Put some thought into the lighting placement, intensity, colors and controls.
Try pairing an overhead light with recessed ceiling lights or sconces mounted on the side walls. You want to avoid harsh, direct lighting. Instead, opt for soft, ambient sources that cast a flattering glow and make the space feel soothing. Installing natural light sources like windows or skylights will also elevate the ambience from ordinary to spa-worthy.
Cool-toned lighting in tranquil blue, green or yellow hues enhances relaxation, while warmer shades of red and orange can energize. Putting your lighting on dimmers allows you full control in setting the perfect mood. For next-level immersion, sync your lighting system to music and steam/temperature controls for a completely integrated sensory experience.
It’s the Little Touches that Count
It’s often the small flourishes and finishes that take a space from mundane to absolutely marvelous. Once you have the larger shower upgrades installed, have fun accessorizing and putting on those final spa-esque touches.
Green leafy plants instantly vitalize. Hang waterproof artwork or add a beautiful frameless mirror above seating. Use baskets, hooks and caddies for bath essentials like towels, robes, slippers and bath products. Upgrade basic shower doors to elegant framed glass. Try inserting waterproof panels with rejuvenating quotes or affirmations.
Install a compact aromatherapy diffuser discreetly out of the direct water stream and allow invigorating scents like eucalyptus and lavender to infuse the steamy air. For a truly transcendent experience, upgrade your shower to a steam unit or one of those high-tech watersystems with customized sound, lights, temperature and steam.
Conclusion
Creating your own at-home spa sanctuary is incredibly achievable and rewarding. With a few considered upgrades to your existing shower enclosure, you can easily mimic the atmosphere of an upscale retreat. Transform into your own private oasis by installing rainfall shower fixtures, built-in seating, soothing lighting and sensory touches. Then all that’s left is to sit back, relax and let the worries wash away!
