Luxury retreats in Thailand with a fabulous friend are certainly one way to get in touch with your inner zen. But, if time/budget/responsibility to little humans does not allow it, then these tips by Sydney-based interior designer Mariah Burton from Folk Studio (who has collaborated with Luxo Living) can help you create a relaxing space anywhere in your home. Passport stamp not required.
1. A dedicated wellness room
If you’re fortunate enough to have an extra room, transforming it into a dedicated wellness sanctuary can be incredibly rewarding. This space could include a simple calming area (think warm lights and sweetly scented candles) designed for relaxation and self-care. Or, for the super serious a dedicated in-house sauna. Like the ones inspired by Australian-owned, Kiva Wellness, who have partnered with new development, The Residences at Wahroonga Estate, to be the first Australian development to offer saunas in the home.
Mariah’s design tips for a wellness room:
- Create distinct zones. Organise the room into different sections based on activities. For example, designate one area for hot-cold therapy with a sauna and ice bath, another for meditation with comfortable seating, and a separate section for storage. This zoning helps maximise the functionality of the space and ensures that each activity has its own dedicated area, enhancing the overall sense of tranquillity.
- Incorporate natural elements. Use natural materials such as wood, stone, and plants to enhance the calming atmosphere of the wellness room. Saunas often come with a natural timber finish, which complements the serene vibe. Adding elements like wooden shelving, stone planters, and lush green plants will integrate seamlessly with the sauna and elevate the room’s peaceful environment.
- Add personal touches: Introduce items that add warmth and texture to the space. Woven baskets can store towels and wellness accessories, while patterned towels and robes can bring in colour and texture. Scented candles and water carafes not only serve practical purposes but also enhance the sensory experience, making the space more inviting and personalised.
2. Calm in your living room
For those who may not have the luxury of a dedicated wellness room, infusing your living room with serenity can still create a peaceful retreat within your home. The living room, often the central gathering place, can be designed to foster calm and relaxation.
Mariah’s design tips for a tranquil living room:
- Choose a neutral base colour. Opt for calming base colours such as whites, soft beiges, or earth tones. These shades create a soothing environment and help in reducing visual clutter, which contributes to a sense of peace.
- Play with texture. Add dimension to your living room by incorporating a variety of textures. Fabrics like velvet or satin in sofas and armchairs not only look elegant but also feel luxurious to the touch. Additionally, a high-quality rug can anchor the room and provide a grounding effect. Choose a rug that complements the size of your sofa and coffee table to ensure a harmonious look.
- Opt for plant life. Instead of busy artwork, which can be visually overwhelming, choose a few well-placed plants. Plants add a touch of nature and tranquillity to the room. Limit yourself to one or two plants per room and ensure their pots are in neutral or matching tones to maintain a cohesive look.
3. Serene bedroom retreats
Your bedroom should be a sanctuary where you can retreat and recharge. It’s essential to create a space that promotes relaxation and comfort.
Mariah’s design tips for a relaxing bedroom:
- Statement headboard. An upholstered headboard adds a layer of warmth and softness to your bed, making the room feel more inviting. It helps to create a focal point and separates the bed from hard surfaces like walls, enhancing the room’s comfort.
- Mixing materials. Combine different materials to add depth and interest to the bedroom. Soft bed linens paired with timber or concrete side tables and benches introduce a contrast that feels both surprising and comforting. This blend of materials contributes to a richer, more layered design.
- Accent colours and lighting. Reflect on your daily wardrobe to identify your favourite colours and incorporate these into your bedding and throw pillows. Soft, calming colours can enhance relaxation. Additionally, lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood. Use a combination of table and floor lamps to create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Avoid harsh overhead lights, which can be too intense and disrupt the room’s tranquil vibe.
4. A peaceful reading nook
If you’re working with limited space, carving out a small corner for a reading nook or meditation area can still provide a much-needed retreat.
Mariah’s design tips for a tranquil reading nook:
- Comfortable seating. Invest in a plush occasional chair made from materials like boucle that offer a soft, comforting texture. This chair will become a cozy spot for reading or relaxing.
- Layer materials. Pair your chair with a side table made from a contrasting material, such as timber or concrete, to add subtle dimension and texture to the nook. This mix enhances the visual interest of the space.
- Signature scent. Finally, introduce a consistent fragrance through a diffuser, room spray, and candle. A signature scent can evoke a sense of familiarity and calm, making the nook a personal haven. Rotating through these scent options while maintaining the same fragrance ensures a continuous sensory experience that enhances relaxation.
For more inspiration, to explore products that can help you build your own wellness sanctuary and to shop Mariah Burton’s Luxo Living selects and the entire sauna and wellness range, visit Luxo Living’s website.
