Recent trends have championed lived-in style – even in the most functional rooms of the home. Kitchens have become more cozy and sociable, and bathrooms are now receiving the same treatment thanks to the emerging bathroom lounge trend.
It might be a controversial bathroom trend, but it has triggered a shift in the way we approach bathroom ideas. It's a room we spend a lot of time in – especially in the mornings and evenings – so some homeowners and designers see a cozy seating area as a fitting addition.
But what exactly is a bathroom lounge, and is it actually practical? We've turned to experts to find out if this trend is something to pay attention to or an idea that is more aesthetic than functional.
Is a bathroom lounge a good idea?
A bathroom lounge is a luxurious way to make this more functional room cozy and homey. While no one is recommending adding a large sofa or oversized furniture, introducing seating options, an ottoman, or pieces you'd have in cozier rooms can add both a stylish a practical element.
'Bathroom lounges are trending and it is part and parcel of the move towards larger bathrooms again – we are now seeing homeowners choosing to sacrifice two smaller bathrooms for one larger one. Choosing to have a bathroom lounge provides a moment to take some time back for ourselves,' says Barrie Cutchie, design director at BC Designs.
The self care aspect certainly has appeal, promoting the idea of creating a spa-like bathroom where you can relax and unwind – a design style inspired by the move towards mindful interiors and slower living.
'If you have the space for it, a bathroom lounge is a great way to add a sense of spa-like luxury to your home. It's a great way to use your space in sort of a different way and spread out your storage areas for linens and towels and just extend the same level of intention and care to your bathroom as you would to any other area of your home,' adds interior designer Kathy Kuo.
However, as many benefits as there are to bathroom lounges, practicality needs to be considered. In larger bathrooms, it might seem like a no-brainer to add a few home comforts, but if you're working with a smaller footprint, the same can't be said.
'A bathroom lounge can be a beautiful addition, though, it’s not always practical for every home. In larger spaces where there’s room to layer in comfort without sacrificing flow or functionality, a bathroom lounge can work wonderfully – especially when it’s integrated to feel harmonious with the rest of the home,' says interior designer Lauren Gilberthorpe.
'However, in smaller spaces, a lounge-style bathroom could feel cramped or impractical. It’s about finding the right balance for each home and client and designing a bathroom that feels relaxing yet entirely usable,' she adds.
How to introduce the bathroom lounge trend to your home
There are plenty of ways to introduce the bathroom lounge trend into your home – even if you don't have abundant space to play with. Here, designers weigh in on the best ways to create a cozy space in your bathroom without impeding on functionality.
1. Add elegance with a chaise
The way you approach the bathroom lounge trend will depend entirely on your space. 'Take stock of how much space you have to work with to create a lounge outside the primary bathroom area or add lounge space to your existing bathroom if you have a large one,' says Kathy.
You will need to be practical in a small bathroom, so more bijou pieces make the most sense, but if you have a bit more room, you can introduce larger, more elegant pieces.
'How you furnish and style it is up to you, but it's nice to have a daybed or chaise, as well as some baskets of towels and some small tables for books, magazines, and to set a beverage on.'
This luxurious chaise comes in plenty of color and fabric options, so you can find something suitable for your scheme.
For something more natural or rustic, this rattan chaise is suitable for indoor and outdoor use, so it's durable for a bathroom.
If you have a moodier bathroom color scheme, the dark green and wood chaise is a timeless choice. Also offered in three other colors.
2. Keep it simple with a bench or ottoman
At first glance, this space doesn't look like a bathroom – that is until you notice the green freestanding bathtub. While the wood flooring and color drenched green walls feel reminiscent of a living room, it's the traditional ottoman at the center that creates the bathroom lounge effect.
'The larger space allows you to incorporate some key items including a seating area, small tables, and decorative items. A bench seat or chaise is the popular pick for a lounge and will make your bathroom room feel more versatile,' says Barrie.
Your bench or ottoman can take on more than one function. When you want to take a moment, it can be a sophisticated seating space, while other times it can act like a coffee table or even a place to display decor. 'Your bench can be the resting place for your current books, a place to lay out your post-shower fit, or to simply take a moment for rest.'
3. Consider the atmosphere
'The idea of incorporating a lounge area into a bathroom transforms it from a purely functional, utilitarian space into a sanctuary of relaxation and luxury,' says Louise Ashdown, head of design at West One Bathrooms.
'If the bathroom is large enough, adding lounge elements, like comfortable seating, soft lighting, or even small décor touches like artwork and plants, can evoke a spa-like atmosphere.'
In this bathroom, a fluffy round rug has been topped with a wooden armchair and a wooden side table, perfect for relaxing after a bath and taking a moment for yourself – plus, it doesn't impede on the functionality of the space.
A wood chair is perfect for Japandi or more natural schemes. This one comes with plush seat cushions, but they can be removed for cleaning.
A rug not only grounds a room but adds a softer, cozier feel. This machine-washable rug is a great way to zone a bathroom lounge. Size options available.
If you're introducing a side table to your bathroom lounge, opt for something small to avoid taking up to much space, like this wood design.
4. Add homey appeal with storage style
The most obvious way to introduce the bathroom lounge trend is through soft furniture pieces like armchairs or upholstered benches. However, it's just not practical in some spaces, especially if your bathroom is smaller or in an awkward shape.
Instead, look for ways to blend style and function. 'I also like the idea of having an apothecary cabinet for lotions, potions, and bathtime luxuries; a vanity table is also a nice and appropriate touch,' says Kathy.
In this bathroom, a vanity area has been created, adding ample storage to the room while creating a comfy space to sit, relax, and get ready. This is a great way to blend homey style and practical requirements that feel achievable.
5. Layer cozy soft furnishings
Instead of viewing a bathroom lounge as just a sitting area, consider how it can impact the overall look and feel of your bathroom. Adding furniture and textiles adds coziness and a more lived-in style.
'A lounge in a bathroom shifts the perception of this space. It's no longer just for getting ready or performing daily routines. Instead, it becomes a personal retreat where you can unwind, read or just take a moment to relax,' says Louise.
'Beyond comfort, a lounge area also gives you the chance to introduce textures and layers of warmth – plush rugs, cozy throws, or even side tables for candles or drinks – making the bathroom feel more connected to the rest of the home.'
A cozy throw blanket can be moved from room to room as and when you need it, so choose a neutral color that works in every space of your home.
A scented candle is a must in a bathroom lounge. Perfect for burning as you relax in a chair or as you enjoy a warm bubble bath.
If you do want to create a display on an ottoman or bench, you'll need stylish tray to keep everything on. This marble design is certainly luxurious.
The bathroom lounge trend can add style, comfort, and homey appeal to this ordinarily functional room. And while no one is saying to add a sectional to your space, introducing smaller seating can add additional style and practicality that you might not have considered before.
