Outdoor Bathrooms

First we saw Outdoor Kitchens. Next, we will be seeing more and more bathroom applications that are indoor/outdoor oriented.

As more people are purchasing smaller, more affordable properties or simply downsizing due to grown children, forward thinkers are considering the possibility of creating an outdoor room that is an extension of the bathroom they have—or are looking into adding some outdoor features into new bathroom planning.

One of the biggest trends has been the popularization of going to spas. Another is traveling to exotic places, island spots with waterfalls, hot springs and fountains. Instead of spending lots of money at a spa or traveling far away to get a “zen” experience, why not incorporate these qualities into an area of your bathroom and adjoining outdoor space. You can enjoy a mini vacation and spa experience everyday, permanently. We call these “Staycations”.

Now we all know about hot tubs, but how many of you have ever taken an outdoor shower, sauna, or steam bath? This can be added to a hot tub area in the backyard without too much of a stretch. The idea is to be outdoors in the garden with greenery surrounding you. Privacy is not even a problem as there are many ways to impede any vision of what you are doing.

Another idea would be to incorporate larger windows and bring plants indoors. There are now vertical methods of growing plants with walls going green. And yes, they will work indoors with stone floors, or rocks and floor drains. You could include a large garden window filled with growing container plants toward the outside bathroom wall or incorporate large French doors that open out to an outdoor pond or water feature. You can almost hear the water gurgling. Not hard to imagine but certainly calming and a wow factor in any home.

For those more adventurous types, an outdoor shower would be ideal. Just ask any kid and they will tell you how much fun they are.

For this trend to work you really would want to hire a designer, someone who has done a project like this before. You should consult with 2-3 designers, take a look at their work and see if it supports your vision. And most of all have fun. Remember this is your mini spa staycation.

Shari Steele is the designer at Shari Steele Designs (.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)) and is the V.P. of Academic Relations for NKBA Northern California as well as Chairperson for the 2011 NKBA Design Competition. From choosing a designer to picking out fixtures, the NKBA is your best source for design ideas, expert remodeling tips, and advice. To find a design professional near you please contact http://www.nocankba.org.