Carving Out a “Calm Space”
I need a spa day…like…every day. My guess is that at the end of a long day, whether you’re running around to soccer practice or handling big C-suite responsibilities, you probably feel the same way. While a weekly trip to the spa may be impractical, creating a spa-like bathroom retreat in your home is absolutely possible. With thoughtful interior design and bathroom design, you can turn your space into a relaxing end-of-day oasis that supports both your mental and physical well-being.
Quiet Rooms, Yoga Studios, and Peaceful Spots
If you have an extra space, even a small one, it can be the perfect place to create a quiet retreat in your home. An unused bedroom works beautifully, but even a section of a finished basement can be transformed into a calming wellness space. One of my Manhattan clients (where space is always limited) repurposed a closet by removing the doors, allowing us to design a small, zen-inspired sanctuary that brings relaxation into their everyday home design.
When designing a quiet retreat in the home, I often incorporate a chaise lounge or a comfortable floor cushion, paired with a soft sheepskin rug and a simple piece of calming artwork. Small rituals, like meditation, herbal tea, spiritual reading, or even listening to soothing waterfall sounds through your earbuds, can help you relax and slow your heart rate. In a space like this, thoughtful interior design choices matter. Avoid strong colors and bold contrasts, and instead keep the room subtle, soft, and muted. Use calming neutral tones on the walls and skip busy patterns; this is not the place for bold wallpaper. Add an aromatic diffuser with your favorite essential oils, and take just 15 minutes each day to unwind in your personal home sanctuary.
Bedroom Sanctuaries
If you don’t have an extra nook for a dedicated spa room, consider turning your bedroom into a relaxing oasis. When designing a bedroom to feel like a spa retreat, I focus on eliminating clutter and using restraint. I keep artwork minimal and calming, and streamline family photos by displaying them in matching frames. For a clean, contemporary look, I often use acrylic frames with no border. In these serene bedroom designs, lighter paint colors work best—soft blues (not too intense) or calming beige tones create the most peaceful atmosphere. Beautiful options include Benjamin Moore Alabaster (OC-129) or the Phillip Jeffries Glam Grass wallcovering collection.
The key to creating a true bedroom sanctuary is to limit clutter and choose natural materials. Keep patterns to a minimum and opt for solid linens for drapes or Roman shades. An upholstered bed or one made from natural fibers complements the relaxed, spa-like feel perfectly. Designing a calming, end-of-day retreat is one of my favorite parts of interior design, giving busy, active clients a peaceful place in their home where they can truly unwind.
