The idea of having a tropical bathroom has an exotic allure to it. We imagine an outdoor bathroom with a white freestanding bathtub, nestled in lush tropical vegetation.
Think of birds singing and gentle breezes rustling the tree leaves. All that while you sit in the tub and let all your troubles melt away.
Sounds like paradise.
Perhaps this is what many dwellers in temperate regions think of when they consider taking a bath in a tropical paradise. The fact is most bathrooms in tropical regions tend to be a lot more utilitarian than you might think.
Our bathroom, particularly in the master’s suite, is however one of the special places in our homes. Homeowners like to spend a little more time and attention designing this space to their specific needs and décor ideas.
However, it is usually more focused on vanity top materials, storage space, wall tiles and vessel sinks.
This is fine since our bathrooms are practical spaces for the most part. We go in, do what we have to do and get out.
Many of us believe that we must have a tub or “jacuzzi” to relax and soak in at the end of a long, tiring day. The irony is that most times, we are too tired or too busy to use it.
Nevertheless, if you are thinking about adding a bit of the charm of a tropical paradise spa to your bathroom design, here are a few things you can consider.
Your choice of fixtures and fittings are largely dependent on the style you are trying to achieve. Therefore, we won’t necessarily get into that here.
1. Incorporate Plants
One of the main ways to add a tropical vibe to any space is by incorporating nature. Adding plants and incorporating natural elements into any space in your home can have amazing effects. Your bathroom is no different.
Biophilic design strategies have many benefits and can significantly enhance the décor of your bathroom.
This could include having potted plants inside your bathroom. Choose plants that will survive well indoors and locate them in areas that receive maximum light.
If you are tight on floor space, consider adding some shelves or niches that you can locate plants. You can also consider hanging some from the ceiling.
2. Opening Out To Nature
I often see images of bathrooms that open out to vast areas of nature. Views of large, dense trees or open landscapes, while you lie in the tub, looks awesome. That is great if your home is off by itself in the middle of nowhere.
However, for most of us having a large window or door opening while we take a bath, shower or …perform toilet duties can end up becoming a performance for our neighbour or the random passer-by.
They are ways that you can create large openings while maintaining privacy. You can create planters with lush vegetation but with screens that provide privacy.
The bathroom could also open out to a small courtyard that is hidden from all external views.
However, keep in mind that some of these ideas look and feel great as a room. I love to see them and would love to incorporate them into my future home. But sometimes wonder if when bringing in some aspects of nature if you do not end up bringing in other unwanted aspects.
Sharing your bath or shower with lizards and other pests may not be everyone’s cup of tea. This however might come along as part of the package.
Hence, I would not necessarily recommend a completely outdoor bathroom in practical applications. This space should still be able to close off from pest and for security as well.
In addition, on those cool mornings, the draft may not be as pleasant as you might think when your skin is covered with water. I recommend options where you can have the open feeling when you need it but closed off when you don’t.
3. Natural Light
Another good way to add a bit of tropical charm to your bathroom is by allowing lots of indirect natural light.
This creates a greater connection with the outdoors. You get to feel the changes in daylight throughout the day.
However, as with any other part of your tropical home, this should be as little direct sunlight as possible, Direct sunlight can increase the heat of your bathroom.
4. Natural Materials And Tones
Using natural materials and tones can also add a sense of being outdoors.
Natural wood tones and textures as well as stone patterns can help enhance your tropical space and compliment your natural elements.
I personally find that too many high-end finishes and materials in this situation can take away from the tropical feel. Even unfinished concrete or stone can sometimes add to the overall design.
However, a few premium fixtures and materials could add a nice contrast if your budget allows for it.
5. Use Patterns and Images With Nature
If all of this seems too much for you and you just want to add a little tropical oomph to your space, consider some images of nature.
Paintings and photographs of nature or natural elements could help enhance your room and may give it the extra edge that you are looking for. They could also be of bold prints of natural elements.
How much of this you want to add may depend on your desired style and taste.
Conclusion
Our bathrooms are practical, functional spaces. They are needed to perform specific functions that often requires the utmost privacy. You can have a space that is functional, private but still have the charm of a tropical spa. It should also have the functionality required from living in the tropics like ventilation and shade.
Adding plants or opening out to the natural environment can have a significant impact on the space. Natural indirect light can give you a great sense of connection to the outdoors as well.
Incorporating natural materials like wood and stone adds to the overall décor.
Using paintings and images and accessories of nature or natural elements can further enhance the space.
Check sites like Pinterest and other online sources to get ideas and inspiration for your tropical bathroom.
Turning your bathroom into a tropical paradise may be just what you need for your home.
Featured image by Cecilia Medina on Unsplash