As an interiors enthusiast, I’ve always been fascinated by the transformative power of our living spaces. Our homes have the incredible ability to soothe our souls, uplift our spirits, and become true sanctuaries from the outside world. And when it comes to creating these serene oases, the bathroom is undoubtedly one of the most important rooms to get right.

For years, I’ve been longing to transform my own bathroom into a calming retreat. The existing space was a dreary, poorly insulated affair – a chilly, dimly lit space that did little to rejuvenate me. But all that’s about to change, as I embark on an exciting new project with the team at Sofa Spectacular.

Uncovering the Bathroom’s Untapped Potential

When I first moved into my home, the bathroom was an afterthought – a small, inconveniently located addition tacked onto the back of the property. Like many Victorian-era terraced houses, the bathroom was a bit of an architectural afterthought, shoehorned into the available space without much care or consideration.

Back then, bathrooms were still seen as more of a luxury than a necessity. Most homes made do with an outdoor toilet or a simple tin bathtub by the fire. It wasn’t until the early 20th century that the modern bathroom, with its suite of porcelain fixtures, became a standard feature of the middle-class home.

But as our lifestyles have evolved, so too has our understanding of the bathroom’s role. No longer just a functional space for getting clean, the bathroom has become a crucial sanctuary – a retreat where we can unwind, restore our wellbeing, and reconnect with ourselves. It’s a space that should soothe the senses and uplift the spirit, not leave us feeling cold and uninspired.

Designing a Sanctuary from Scratch

With our upcoming home extension, I finally have the opportunity to create the bathroom of my dreams – a true oasis of tranquility. Working closely with the experts at Sofa Spectacular, I’ve been able to carefully curate every element, from the tile selection to the brassware, to craft a space that reflects my personal design aesthetic.

The concept I’ve developed is one of calm, simple elegance – a serene sanctuary where I can find respite from the stresses of everyday life. Inspired by the undulating lines and soothing sage hues of a soap dish I came across, the design scheme features a harmonious blend of tranquil tones and tactile textures.

At the heart of the design are the stunning Liquid tiles by VitrA Bathrooms, which were developed in collaboration with renowned designer Tom Dixon. With their soft, curved edges and mesmerizing patterns, these tiles will create a captivating focal point in the shower area. Paired with off-white matte tiles and brushed nickel brassware, the overall aesthetic evokes a timeless, understated elegance.

Layering in Depth and Dimension

To prevent the space from feeling flat or one-dimensional, I’ve incorporated subtle points of interest and unexpected touches. The dark green grout against the light tiles, for example, adds a touch of graphic drama, while the stone-effect porcelain flooring introduces a natural, earthy element.

And it’s not just the surfaces that will bring depth and dimension to the space. Ample storage solutions from the Voyage range by Arak Levy will provide both practical functionality and a visually soothing element, with their simple white forms and warm wooden accents.

A Truly Personalized Sanctuary

One of the most exciting aspects of this project has been the opportunity to truly personalize the space. Unlike a typical bathroom renovation, where you’re often working within the constraints of an existing layout, I’ve had the freedom to envision the bathroom of my dreams from the ground up.

This has allowed me to prioritize the elements that are most important to my wellbeing and lifestyle. For instance, I’ve opted for a freestanding bathtub positioned in front of the window, creating a serene bathing experience that allows me to gaze out at the world beyond. And by separating the toilet into its own dedicated room, I’ve ensured a true sense of privacy and tranquility in the main bathroom area.

Bringing the Design to Life

As the project has progressed, the VitrA Bathrooms team has been an invaluable partner, helping me to translate my vision into a tangible reality. Through our collaborative meetings and the use of cutting-edge VR technology, I’ve been able to immerse myself in the space, tweaking and refining the design until it feels just right.

It’s been a truly hands-on process, with opportunities to touch, feel, and interact with the various materials and fittings. This has been crucial in ensuring that the end result not only looks stunning, but also feels like a natural extension of my personal style and preferences.

A Sanctuary Worth the Wait

After years of living with a less-than-ideal bathroom situation, I can’t wait to finally have a tranquil, restorative space that I can retreat to. The journey has been a long one, but I know that the wait will be worth it. With thoughtful design, quality craftsmanship, and a deep understanding of my needs, the team at Sofa Spectacular has helped me to create a true sanctuary – a haven where I can find solace, restoration, and a renewed connection to myself.

As the project nears completion, I’m filled with a sense of excitement and anticipation. This bathroom isn’t just a functional space – it’s a reflection of my personal style, a manifestation of my desire for calm and simplicity, and a testament to the transformative power of thoughtful design. I can’t wait to step inside, take a deep breath, and let the stresses of the day melt away.