When did our bathrooms become so fussy? Full of half-used shampoo bottles, a binful of empty toilet rolls, and towels seemingly without a home, what was once supposed to be a room for relaxation and rejuvenation is now one we’d prefer to spend as little time in as possible…
It can be pretty distracting when you’re trying to do your business, and certainly not relaxing when you’re trying to do your bathing, that’s for sure.
Perhaps it won’t come as a big surprise, then, that one of 2023’s major interior design trends is an attempt to reverse the apparent decline of our bathrooms-as-wellness-spaces. Introducing; the biophilic, minimalist bathroom.
This design philosophy combines our innate love for nature with the sleek simplicity of minimalism, aiming to create an oasis of calm and serenity within your home, which sounds just about right for a year that’s felt just as turbulent as the two three that preceded it.
With that in mind, today we’ve teamed up with Trend Transformations Knutsford to offer these tips on how to achieve 2023’s ultimate bathroom trend: the biophilic, minimalist bathroom.
Natural Stone: A Solid Foundation
The first step in harnessing the power of biophilic minimalism in your bathroom is to incorporate natural stone elements, which provide a solid, grounding foundation to the space. Think granite countertops, slate floors, or even a luxurious marble bathtub.
Not only do these materials provide a touch of elegance and sophistication, but they also connect you to the great outdoors. After all, nothing says “nature” quite like rocks, right?
Some of 2023’s most on trend natural stone elements include travertine tiles and sandstone vanities. These materials have a textured, organic look that is perfect for a refined biophilic bathroom. Plus, they are durable and easy to maintain, making them a practical choice for any homeowner.
Wood Panelling: Bringing The Forest Indoors
Next up on our journey to bathroom-based nirvana is wood panelling. Whether it’s reclaimed barn wood or sustainably harvested teak, adding wooden accents to your bathroom instantly creates an inviting atmosphere in which you’ll be keen to luxuriate rather than just, erm, defecate.
An excellent way to make your bathroom feel like a cosy woodland retreat (minus the bears, of course), 2023’s most popular types of wood to deploy in your bathroom include cedar, bamboo, and walnut. These woods are known for their durability and resistance to moisture, making them ideal for bathroom use. Consider using wood panelling on the walls or as a statement piece on the ceiling to really bring the natural world indoors. It gives a whole new meaning to the phrase ‘’forest bathing’’, don’t you think?
Natural Lighting: Let There Be Light
In a biophilic, minimalist bathroom, natural lighting is key. Not only does it provide the lighting that your intricate daily grooming routine deserves, but it also helps to connect you with the outside world, any time of day or night.
If you’re keen to go all out here, and to effectively encourage the flow of natural light, consider installing casement windows or tube skylights, which not only provide ample sunlight but also ensure privacy and proper ventilation. Opt for frosted or privacy glass to maintain discretion while still allowing light to filter through.
And when the sun goes down, opt for warm, ambient lighting that mimics the soft glow of a sunset. If that’s not an option, opt for sheer curtains or blinds that allow light in.
Greenery Galore
No biophilic bathroom would be complete without a touch of greenery. Introduce potted plants, hanging ferns, or even a cactus or two to breathe life into your space, adding a pop of colour and creating a calming atmosphere. Plus, talking to your plants while you shower is totally normal, isn’t it? Isn’t it, guys? Guys?
Consider adding a few low-maintenance plants such as aloe vera or snake plants to your bathroom. If you have limited space, consider hanging plants from the ceiling or deploying the aforementioned vertical garden to maximise your greenery.
Do remember, though, that 2023’s bathroom trends seek not to overwhelm visually, but to keep things slick, clean and subtle. You don’t want to be scything through foliage just to take a tinkle, now do you? Instead, a carefully deployed pot plant or two is the best way to go.
Minimalist Fixtures: Less Is More
Yep, the bathroom buzzwords of the year are without doubt ‘’less is more’’. Opt for simple but sleek fixtures that don’t overpower the natural elements in your bathroom, but rather, bring out the best in them. Think wall-mounted faucets, frameless mirrors, and towel racks that stay as flush to the wall as possible. The goal is to create a sense of calm and serenity, not a cluttered mess.
Sleek, streamlined faucets and showerheads not only look elegant, but they also take up less visual space, allowing your natural stone and wood elements to shine. Consider matte black or brushed nickel finishes for a modern touch.
The Power Of Neutrals
Incorporate a neutral colour palette to further enhance the minimalist aspect of your bathroom. Earthy tones like beige, taupe, and grey not only complement the natural materials used in your design but also create a soothing atmosphere perfect for relaxation. And hey, who doesn’t love a good “greige”?
This helps create a calming, spa-like atmosphere, providing a clean backdrop for any natural stone or wood elements you incorporate into your space.
Sensory Delights: Aromatherapy & More
Finally, don’t forget to engage all your senses in your biophilic, minimalist bathroom. Incorporate aromatherapy with essential oil diffusers, use soft, organic cotton towels, and play relaxing nature sounds to create a truly immersive experience. After all, a bathroom should be more than just a place to brush your teeth – it should offer a personal spa experience each and every time you enter.
The Bottom Line
By incorporating natural stone, wood panelling, and other earthy elements, you’ll create a serene, calming space that feels connected to the great outdoors. So go forth and transform your bathroom into a haven of relaxation – you deserve it!
