Renovation 101: How To Create A Spa-Like Bathroom Sanctuary

by Stephanie Hrutkay

Feature photo: Photography by Amy Lamb of Native House Photography.

From our partners at The Scout Guide, here is some inspiration on how to create that spa-like bathroom in your own home!

A sunny spot to prepare for the day ahead, a soothing haven perfect for unwinding—a bathroom that doubles as your personal refuge can serve as the ultimate interior luxury. We’ve tapped principal designer and interior tastemaker, Tracee Murphy of Trade Mark Interiors, in Sarasota, Florida, to share her expert tips for transforming this space into a spa-like bathroom and a place of respite and delight.

1. Seek inspiration

As with any design project, designing a beautiful spa-like bathroom begins with gathering inspiration. Murphy encourages clients to peruse images, focusing on materials and color palettes that evoke the vibe they’re hoping to achieve, paying attention to the way the images make them feel. If the image elicits a feeling of zen, you’ve hit on the right inspiration for your space. She recommends clients seek out imagery with lush greenery, soothing colors, and natural materials.

2. Nod to nature

“Biophilic design, a philosophy that seeks to reconnect people with nature by incorporating natural elements into their surroundings, is extremely important,” Murphy says. Incorporating views of nature and natural elements into your design, the presence of natural materials (like plants, wood, stone, and water) are soothing and offer many health benefits, including lowering blood pressure. In the project pictured above, Murphy opted to use marble and limestone, as well as an antiqued edge on the floor tile for a natural, classic look. She also recommends incorporating plants into your bathroom design if you have a natural light source.

3. Let there be light

Good lighting is a crucial part of a bathroom’s design, and while an abundance of natural light is always preferred, Murphy advises enhancing it with well-placed artificial light. “Backlit mirrors are my go-to, as well as decorative sconces flanking the central usable area in the bathroom,” she says. “It’s very important to make one look their best while getting ready for their day and lighting from sconces is more flattering than overhead lighting which can create harsh shadows.”

4. Soften up

What can sometimes be a cold, utilitarian space can be morphed into a spa-like bathroom with the right color palette. “Warm, muted tones create a cozy atmosphere versus cool tones which are a bit more lively,” Murphy says. Some of her favorite colors include Benjamin Moore’s Brandy Cream, Georgetown Pink Beige, Dragonfly, and Chocolate Candy Brown. Want to instantly cozy up your space? She recommends adding a vintage rug or unique artwork to add personality and warmth.

TSG Tip 486 from Tracee Murphy of Trade Mark Interiors, in Sarasota, Florida. Trade Mark Interiors appears in The Scout Guide Sarasota. Click here to discover more TSG Tips from Scouted experts.

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