The bold look of Kohler

•Learn the basics of minimalist design.
•Create a sleek and understated home spa.

 As anyone who’s had the pleasure of the experience will tell you, there’s nothing like a spa getaway to tame your stress levels and rejuvenate your spirit. Because it isn't always possible or practical to jet off to a resort for pampering, however, an increasing number of people are creating luxurious settings of their own with at-home spas.

What more convenient place to get away from it all than right down the hall, in the comfort of your own home? When designed with thought and care, your bathroom can serve as a relaxing retreat from the demands of the day.

For a lot of people, getting away from it all means getting away from clutter and the stuff of everyday life. That’s why many homeowners are following the lead of the world’s most luxurious resort spas and adopting a clean, minimalist design for their private retreats.

   
Simplicity rules

Minimalism was developed in the 20th century as an artistic movement whose principles stress using a minimum number of colors, shapes, lines and textures. Designers and architects adopted the style, resulting in homes that were spare and simple, yet elegant. Typically, these homes featured architectural forms, uninterrupted planes, and neutral colors.

As applied to home-spa design, the minimalist approach means maximum space, minimum fuss, and simple luxury. Surfaces are smooth, lines sculptural and sensual, and clutter is eliminated. Fixtures are sleek and understated; the few accessories often include organic cotton towels and soft candlelight.

Inspired by nature

The minimalist trend draws inspiration from nature. Simple home spas often contain gently flowing water, rich wood, and smooth slate. Colors are calm and neutral, in whites, beiges and grays reminiscent of natural elements such as clouds, sandy beaches, and river rocks.

Clean lines

   
The strength of minimalism lies in the efficiency of what exists in the room. Because the room doesn’t contain a lot of furniture or objects, each one needs to be perfectly chosen. Materials matter, and the design of each component is critical. The beauty is in the details.

The Purist® suite of products, which includes faucets, sinks, vanities, baths and showers, are perfect components for a minimalist-style bath, thanks to their simple lines and classic materials.

Look for the following minimalist-style characteristics as you consider bath components:

Fixtures Minimalism in bathroom fixtures means simple architectural forms; geometric shapes; smooth, sculptural lines; and low profiles. Tubs and showers should be visually appealing and a pleasure to use. Look for wall-mounted, space-saving sinks and streamlined, one-piece toilets.

   
The Purist® Hatbox™ toilet, for example, epitomizes minimalist design. Just above 17 inches high, the tankless toilet is an elliptical cylinder that looks like a tall hatbox. Its Power Lite flushing technology eliminates the need for an exterior tank, and conserves water as well as space.

Fittings Look for sleek, wall-mounted fittings with fluid curves and a minimum of ornamentation. Faucets and handles should be modern in design, straightforward and minimal. Each piece should be the right size to serve its function without distracting from the lines of the fixtures.

Furniture Closed cabinets help to hide necessary accessories, but you can further streamline your room’s look by installing touch latches or understated hardware on doors and drawers. Keep the style and finishes consistent throughout the room.

Ethnic accents

Simple doesn’t have to mean characterless, by any means. Consider the warm elegance of a Scandinavian sauna, the Zen simplicity of an Asian bath, or the elemental beauty of an adobe sweat lodge. You can infuse your minimalist home spa with any of these influences by choosing appropriate materials and accents such as candles, rugs, shelving, mirrors and other accessories--kept to a minimum, of course.

If you use your imagination and focus on the details when creating your at-home spa, you’ll be rewarded with a simply elegant escape – where you can relax and let all your cares melt away.