In today’s fast-paced world, the need for personal respite and a respite from the demands of daily life has never been more crucial. As our homes have become the epicenter of our daily routines, the desire to create a spa-like oasis within the confines of our own four walls has become a top priority for many homeowners and design enthusiasts.
Channeling the Serenity of a Luxury Wellness Retreat
When it comes to crafting a serene sanctuary at home, interior designers often turn to the design elements and sensory experiences found at high-end wellness retreats for inspiration. “Few things relax and soothe me quite like a spa day,” shares Amy Kartheiser, a renowned interior designer. “When I’m looking for the ultimate pampering experience, I book some time at the Peninsula Chicago Spa – where I’m instantly transported to a world of complete and utter tranquility.”
While not everyone can indulge in a daily spa visit, Kartheiser emphasizes the importance of replicating that sense of tranquility and escape within the comfort of one’s own home. “As much as I’d like to visit the Peninsula every day, sadly I can’t – which is why it’s crucial to have a space at home that offers that same feeling of serenity and relaxation.”
Designing for the Ultimate Wellness Experience
When Kartheiser designs bathrooms for her clients, she draws inspiration directly from her favorite spa destinations. “While I can’t offer an in-home masseuse, I can provide materials, amenities, and sensory elements that mimic those at your favorite wellness retreat,” she explains. From the quality of the linens and towels to the carefully curated beauty and wellness products, every detail is meticulously considered to create a truly luxurious and rejuvenating experience.
“It’s important to me to feel connected to the aesthetics of a space and to know and feel that the materials and even the linens I’m surrounded by are of the highest quality,” Kartheiser emphasizes. “It’s hard to feel stressed when you’re in a fluffy robe and slippers.”
For clients who want to take their at-home wellness journey to the next level, Kartheiser collaborates on the integration of more substantial spa-like amenities. “For a project in the Hamptons, we built an in-home sauna and soaking tub – the perfect additions to a space made for getting away from the city,” she shares. “Other more prominent elements could include a cold plunge pool, steam shower, red-light sauna, and even a fireplace.”
Curating the Luxury Elements
Once the desired spa-inspired experiences have been identified, Kartheiser turns her attention to the all-important task of material selection. “Materials hold the key to luxury, so you can never get too granular when it comes to choosing stone, tile, hardware, and linens,” she explains.
Kartheiser’s top choices for creating a high-end, spa-like ambiance include natural stone, airy curtains, and plush, high-end towels. “I mean, imagine getting out of your sauna only to slip on the floor and reach for a subpar towel,” she says. “The details are what take an experience from so-so to true luxury.”
Even for homeowners with more limited space or budgets, Kartheiser suggests strategic design choices that can elevate the everyday bathroom routine. “A smaller shower can be turned into a rain shower, which offers a super relaxing cleansing experience,” she notes. “An over-the-tub bath tray makes your soak feel more luxurious, and a towel warmer makes getting out of the shower on chilly winter mornings much more enjoyable.”
Bringing the Outdoors In
Kartheiser is also a strong proponent of biophilic design, the concept of integrating natural elements into the built environment. “If your home looks out onto a wooded lot or private body of water, a large window can make a great addition,” she says. “I’m all about bringing the outside in.”
By strategically positioning windows and incorporating natural materials, Kartheiser helps her clients create a seamless connection between the interior and exterior, further enhancing the sense of tranquility and relaxation.
Lighting for Relaxation
Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood for a spa-like sanctuary, and Kartheiser emphasizes the importance of getting it right. “Even the most beautiful sauna in the world can’t compete with bad lighting,” she notes. “Dim lighting encourages us to slow down and take a deep breath, so I recommend all bathrooms feature dimmable overhead lighting.”
While bright lighting may be necessary for morning routines, Kartheiser suggests transitioning to low lighting and plenty of candles for evening baths and other relaxation rituals. “There are tons of beautiful options, including chandeliers and pendants,” she says. “And if a skylight is accessible to you, that’s another fantastic way to create a sense of relaxation – there’s no better feeling than natural sunlight streaming down on you.”
Elevating the Everyday with Luxurious Touches
Ultimately, Kartheiser’s approach to creating a spa-like oasis at home is all about the details. “Quality linens, lotions, and potions can make even a small bathroom feel like a treatment room at the Peninsula,” she explains. “Even the most beautiful sauna in the world can’t compete with bad lighting.”
By carefully curating the materials, products, and sensory elements that evoke the tranquility of a luxury wellness retreat, homeowners can transform their everyday bathrooms and living spaces into serene sanctuaries – personal havens where they can indulge in the ultimate self-care experience, right at home.
To explore more inspiration for your own home transformation, visit Urban Grace Interiors, where our team of skilled designers can help you bring your wellness retreat dreams to life.
