6 easy steps for creating a zen bathroom

Creating a calm environment in your bathroom begins with a thorough decluttering. This first step isn’t just about removing excess items – it’s about setting a foundation for tranquillity and order. By stripping back to the essentials, you pave the way for a minimalist aesthetic that values clean lines and unobstructed views, essential for a truly Zen space. 

If you don’t have a lot of cabinet space to keep toiletries out of sight, you could consider some nice textured baskets to help keep the space tidy and organised.

For smaller bathrooms, careful placement of large mirrors can be very effective at helping expand the visual space and amplifying natural light. This can dramatically alter the perception of the room’s size and atmosphere. 

This minimalist approach is not just about achieving a stylish look but also about enhancing the psychological and emotional experience of the space. With fewer distractions and a clearer environment, the bathroom becomes a true retreat, rewarding you with a peaceful experience every time you enter.

If you’re building a new bathroom, consider planning for a large floor-to-ceiling window and having your bathtub placed alongside. There's nothing like having a luxurious soak while you take in a view of a beautiful landscape outside. 

The reflection of light and subtle colours from the outside environment also helps integrate the natural world into your bathroom, reinforcing a sense of peace and spaciousness. 

When designing a Zen bathroom, the choice of colours plays a pivotal role. I recommend layering neutral colours such as soft cream, beige, and soft browns. These shades not only provide a backdrop that is visually soothing but also enhance the natural materials often used in this style.

For those who have a favourite colour, using soft, muted versions of these can also work well. It’s about creating a space that feels personal and comforting, without overwhelming the senses. From soft pinks to subdued blues, the key is in the softness and subtlety of the hue.

Additionally, it’s important to consider how these colours interact with natural light and the elements of the room. A well-chosen palette can significantly affect the mood of the space, inviting calm and focus, rather than the busyness that bright or stark colours might stimulate.

To truly capture the essence of a Zen bathroom, you’ll want to give careful thought to materials and textures. Natural elements like stone, granite, and timber-like tiles bring an earthy, organic feel to the space. These materials not only add visual interest but also connect the indoors with the natural beauty of the outdoors.

A clever design addition I used in the bathroom of Landmark Homes’ Papamoa Showhome was a large white tile that had a subtle textured palm leaf print on it. The print was beautifully discreet but added a lovely touch of texture to the room.

You can also add texture with simple accessories such as a small wooden spa stool, baskets, or a stone soap dish. 

Incorporating these kinds of natural textures helps transform the bathroom into more than just a functional space – it becomes a calming retreat that feels like a continuation of the natural world outside. 

Lighting in a Zen bathroom needs to be flexible to cater to different moods and times of day. Incorporating dimmers allows you to adjust the ambience easily, creating a softer light for a relaxing evening bath or brighter light for morning routines. Pendant lighting can also be a stylish addition, providing direct light that’s both functional and aesthetic.

I particularly like using LED backlit mirrors and recommend opting for a yellow light rather than bright white. This gives a soothing glow that elevates the atmosphere of the bathroom without being too harsh. 

It’s important to choose lighting that complements the colour scheme of your bathroom. Soft, diffused light can make creamy hues feel warmer and more welcoming, while clear, bright light can highlight the richness of darker tones.

A few well-placed finishing touches such as towels and pot plants can be transformative. Fluffy white towels are ideal as they evoke a clean, spa-like atmosphere. Displaying them either neatly rolled up or stacked on open shelving not only keeps them accessible but also enhances the visual harmony of the space.

Additionally, adding in some natural greenery with real plants helps enhance the connection with nature, which is pivotal to Zen philosophy. Opt for species that thrive in humid environments, such as bamboo, ferns, or peace lilies. Choose a spot where the plants enhance the space without overwhelming it, for example, a tall plant in a corner or small plants on windowsills can add life and energy without cluttering the space.

Introducing elements like essential oil diffusers and natural aromatherapy can also elevate the sensory experience. I usually have a bottle of lavender oil on hand, and every morning I sprinkle a few drops on my towel. It’s an easy way to infuse the bathroom with aromatherapy all day long, just like it is when you walk into a spa.