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September 15, 2025There’s nothing better than stepping into a bathroom that feels calm, clean, and relaxing. Think about the last time you visited a spa. The soft lighting. Warm towels. The peacefulness. Wouldn’t it be nice to bring that same feeling into your own home? You don’t need a huge budget or fancy resort to get that experience. Just a few upgrades can make a big difference in how your space feels.
With some smart choices, your bathroom can become one of your favourite places in the house. A quiet spot to start or end your day. You don’t need everything on this list, but even one or two features can help create that spa-like feel. Here are 11 practical and luxurious bathroom features that can turn your bathroom into a spa-like room we all desire.
1. Freestanding Tub or Soaking Tub
A deep tub is a great place to unwind at the end of the day. A freestanding tub gives your bathroom a more open, clean look. It also becomes a nice centerpiece that draws your eye as soon as you walk in. Soaking tubs are deeper than standard ones which means more water and longer soak times.
Add a wooden bath tray and your favourite bath salts, and you’ve got a cozy spot to relax. You can also include candles, essential oils, or a book to enhance the experience. Place the tub near a window if possible to enjoy natural light and a bit of scenery.
2. Heated Floors
Cold tile floors can be a shock to your system, especially in winter and in the morning. Heated floors solve that problem. They keep your feet warm and make the whole room feel more comfortable. Radiant heating works under the surface and brings a consistent temperature throughout the floor. It’s one of those small upgrades that makes a big difference every day.
They also help dry up water on the floor faster, which can keep the space cleaner. Heated floors are especially great for early mornings or late nights when everything feels chilly.
3. Steam Shower
A regular shower is nice, but a steam shower takes it to another level. With the push of a button, warm steam fills the space. It feels amazing and helps relax sore muscles. Steam showers can also help clear your sinuses and improve your skin. It turns your daily shower into something more soothing and enjoyable.
You don’t need a huge bathroom for one. A smaller steam shower still does the trick and adds a spa-like feeling right at home. Pair it with a bench seat, calming lights, or aromatherapy oils to make it even more relaxing.
4. Floating Vanity
Floating vanities are mounted to the wall instead of sitting on the floor. They look modern and leave space underneath, which can make a bathroom feel bigger. This open space is great for keeping things tidy or adding small baskets. The clean lines of a floating vanity give your bathroom a fresh, updated look that feels light and uncluttered.
You can tuck baskets underneath or even add soft lighting for a nice glow at night. Floating vanities also make it easier to clean the floor, which is always a bonus. Choose one with built-in drawers or shelves for extra storage. These vanities work in small bathrooms and larger spaces.
5. Ambient Lighting
Harsh, bright lights don’t belong in a spa. Soft, layered lighting feels much better. Add wall sconces, under-cabinet lights, or dimmable switches to create a gentle glow. Proper lighting helps set the mood and makes everyday tasks like brushing your teeth or getting ready feel more calming and enjoyable. Avoid using just one ceiling light.
A mix of lights at different levels helps you see well without feeling like you’re under a spotlight. You can also add a bold light fixture above the tub or in the center of the room for a nice touch. Think about warm-toned bulbs and subtle shades that reduce glare. Light plays a huge role in creating comfort.
6. Wall-Mounted Fixtures
Mounting items like faucets, toilets, or vanities directly on the wall can help open up the space. These designs are clean and simple, and they often make the room feel less crowded. They’re also easier to clean around, with fewer tight spaces where dust and grime can build up. Wall-mounted features work well in both small and large bathrooms.
They also make it easier to clean up. No more wiping around a bunch of floor edges or baseboards. With wall-mounted features, you get more open floor space and a sleek look. Many people love how they give the room a more modern and thoughtful design. Plus, they’re practical and functional every day.
7. Frameless Glass Shower
A frameless glass shower lets light move freely through the space. Without chunky frames or borders, the shower blends in better with the rest of the room. This helps the bathroom feel larger and more open. It also allows your tile or stone to shine, especially if you’ve chosen something beautiful for the walls or floor.
They’re also easier to clean and show off your tile work. Frameless glass showers work with many styles, from modern to classic. If you have a smaller bathroom, this is a great way to keep things from feeling tight. It’s a clean, simple way to bring a little luxury into your routine.

8. Better Storage
It’s hard to relax when your bathroom is full of clutter. Smart storage keeps things neat without taking up too much space. Try adding built-in shelves, drawers with organizers, or hidden cabinets. A good layout helps make room for everything from towels and toiletries to cleaning supplies and skincare.
You can also carve out a little shelf in the shower for soaps and shampoos. Storage doesn’t have to be bulky or boring. Floating shelves, medicine cabinets, and wall niches help keep surfaces clear. When everything has a place, it’s easier to keep your bathroom calm and clean. That alone makes the space feel more like a spa.
9. Heated Towel Rack
A warm towel after a shower is such a nice feeling. Heated towel racks do just that. They also help towels dry faster, which keeps them fresh. Plus, they cut down on mildew and musty smells. These racks come in sleek designs that don’t take up much room on your wall.
You can find these in all kinds of styles, so they’ll blend right into your space without standing out too much. Heated towel racks are especially great in winter. They make your daily routine feel a little more special. And let’s be honest, once you try it, you’ll never want to go back to cold towels again.
10. Add a Touch of Nature
Many spas use natural elements to make the space feel calm. You can do the same with wood, stone, or some indoor plants. These small touches bring warmth and texture into the room. Natural materials help you feel more grounded and relaxed, even in a small space.
Even small changes, like a wood stool, a pebble tile floor, or a bamboo bath mat, can make the room feel more peaceful. Plants like pothos or snake plants also do well in bathrooms with low light. A few natural pieces go a long way in making your space feel more inviting and fresh.
11. Keep It Simple
Sometimes, less is more. A minimalist design keeps things clean and simple. Stick to a few key colours and avoid too many decorations or patterns. Focus on quality materials and practical features instead of packing the room with extras. A clear, open space helps calm the mind.
This doesn’t mean boring, it just means focusing on what matters. Choose good lighting, quality materials, and a layout that makes sense. Use soft colours and clean lines to make the room feel open and fresh. The more space you leave open, the more peaceful it feels.
Your Own Bathroom Can Feel Like a Spa
You don’t need a fancy resort or a weekend trip to enjoy that peaceful, spa-like feeling. With a few thoughtful updates, your own bathroom can become a space where you actually want to slow down and relax. Heated floors, a deep soaking tub, soft lighting, and smart storage all work together to create a space that feels calm and comfortable.
If you’re ready to make a change, the team at Valleywide Custom Builders is here to help. We build custom bathrooms that look beautiful and feel great to use every single day.