By: Kayla Adamowich
In 2020, as a society, we learned the importance of “self-care” and “treating yourself” when it
comes to personal health and hygiene. Without access to the spas, massages, and R&R that we’ve
become accustomed to, design trends have evolved to bring the comfort of your favorite luxury spa or
resort to your home! Bathroom trends have quickly turned to tranquil spaces that are desirable to
spend time in. We deserve to have a space at home that can accommodate our new needs or needs that
have become a higher priority. The goal is to create a personalized oasis of well-being; a space that feels
like a warm embrace filled with luxury and tranquility. The “cocooning” trend does just this, as defined
by Yousef Mansuri in his statement to Homes and Gardens.
“Cocooning is a mood that can be created with simple moments that make us pause, such as the
ritual of lighting a scented candle or wrapping ourselves in a warm robe.” -Yousef Mansuri
Your second step should be to think about what makes up your cocoon. Trending colors are
greens and neutrals. Look for organic materials like smooth stones and oak woods, use these
understated elements as your base and build upon them. The hottest finishes in the plumbing world
right now are matte black and brushed gold. They add a layer of interest and an eye-catching pop
against a mostly neutral backdrop. Green can be incorporated through paint, furniture color or through
plant life. Biophiles, rejoice, because now is our time to shine! Not only do plants bring in a beautiful and
whimsical design element, but they’re good for us too! Studies have linked the presence of plants to a
plethora of health benefits that you can easily add to any design. According to a study published in the
Journal of Physiological Anthropology: house plants have been shown to reduce blood pressure, can
filter indoor air, and can even improve your concentration.
Now it’s time to think about how to give yourself a true spa experience. One must-have is a
steam shower. Steam can be added to any regular shower and is more attainable than you may think.
Companies like Steamist and Mr. Steam have a variety of options to fit your budget, style and greatest
indulgences. Steam is not only relaxing, but it’s good for your health too! It stimulates circulation,
lessens the effect of aging on your skin, improves respiratory health, opens your pores, hydrates your
skin, and helps relieve or prevent skin ailments. In addition to steam, adding things like a rain shower or
body sprays will complete the spa-experience. A rain head can be used to create a relaxing shower
experience, while body sprays can be added to target sore or tense muscles.
Proper self-care means pampering from head to toe! You deserve it, so why not complete the
experience by adding a bidet to take care of the last of your cleansing needs. Now anyone can add a
bidet to their bathroom! Available in both round and elongated across a range of price points: these
seats can have built-in heaters, water heaters and night lights. They can be very straightforward, doing
what is necessary, or you can get one that allows you to control water pressure, angle, and pattern.
Once you find what you like, some have built-in user presets so you can get clean with the touch of a
button!
Creating a natural vibe in a light and airy space can help us feel light and airy mentally as well.
Your space is a reflection of you, but in 2022, you can personalize your space to make yourself a
reflection of your favorite space. Design isn’t just about making things look good, good design can make
us feel good too!
