All too often, the bathroom is regarded as simply a room where you shower or bathe, and little thought is given to its appearance and the ways in which it can really be used. What about the bathroom as your own private refuge or sanctuary, a place where you can escape to? What’s better after a hard day’s work than to relax the stress away and rejuvenate your spirits?
There aren’t many places in your home where you can actually escape the rest of the family. Often your young children follow along right on your heels and it’s difficult to get time to yourself. It’s always important to seek out a little time to unwind. The perfect place to escape can be the bathroom, but you need to create the right atmosphere.
Get Rid of That Cold, Sterile Look
Is your bathroom plain, looking like no more than just a bathroom? Is it complete with stainless-steel towel racks and toilet-paper holders—the works? Pretty much everything in the bathroom is basic and straightforward, with nothing fancy. If this is your bathroom, then here’s where you need to start!
There are many ways to soften the look. Start by adding wrought-iron towel racks or white or pastel-colored wood. Choose a soft, relaxing shade for the walls, such as lavender or sea foam. In terms of flooring, two great options are carpet and colorful ceramic tiles. Especially if your linoleum is plain-looking and hardly noticeable, consider updating your floors.
Mirror, Mirror on the Wall
Look at your large bathroom mirror—does it look a little stark? If your mirror is just hanging there with nothing around it, then maybe it’s time to think about making a change. Why not hang a mirror trimmed with gold edges? Or place wallpaper border around the mirror. Using a border that contrasts with the color of the walls will create some interest. You might even think about changing the shape of your mirror completely. You can add a romantic touch, for instance, with an oval mirror.
Decorate the Tub
Spruce up that tub, especially if you’re lucky enough to have a garden tub or one with wide edges. Start by arranging greenery around the edges. For instance, small ceramic pots filled with herbs and greenery will make your tub look especially inviting. Once you add some votive candles, you’ll be ready to soak in a tub filled with bubbles. And the delicious scents of the candles will help float your worries away. There’s nothing quite like filling the tub, lighting a few candles, and bathing in a warm candlelight glow.
Accents Pull It All Together
If you’re looking for a way to pull your new bathroom together, try adding a few accents. For the perfect touch, consider an oblong or square basket to hold a few bath towels. If you have room, add a small table, painting it a contrasting color and decorating it with stenciled flowers and greenery around the edges. You might also add a few clear glass containers that can hold cotton balls, Q-tips, and other items. If you have any attractive body splash and lotion bottles, you might display them as well. You can also add more plants, more candles—just make the décor your own.
It’s so much more relaxing to bathe in a room that’s both exquisitely beautiful and wonderfully smelling. Why jump into the tub, only to jump right out again? Instead, you can take the time to relax, unwind, and thoroughly enjoy yourself. By taking along your favorite book or magazine and a glass of wine, you can make it the most peaceful part of your day! Remember, bathrooms are anything but boring.
About the Writer...
Leon Tuberman has been part of the furniture and interior decorating business for 40 years. He owns and operates a popular furniture store in California. They carry a large selection of American made solid oak furniture for your living room, dining room and bedroom. Whether you're looking for a plywood bookcase for your student area or a mission end table for your family room then they have everything you need.
