A spa experience is not just an indulgence meant to empty your wallets. Rather, it can be a practice steeped in centuries of traditions. Cultures from all over the world have looked at the bathing ritual as a sacred experience meant to be prolonged.
Here are three traditional bathing experiences and how you can incorporate these traditions into your own bathrooms to create the ultimate spa oasis.
1. Baths (Roman)
If you’ve ever visited England, you might have made a stop at the famous Roman Baths. These date back to around 60-70 AD and are defined by columns, arches, and warm stones. You can evoke this time period in your own bathroom by matching warm-colored neutral stones and playing up texture to bring a sense of luxury to the space. If you have the budget to create a completely new space, consider incorporating archways and columns. And remember – a large tub that could fit more than one person is key to the space.
2. Hamam (Muslim)
This is a traditionally Turkish bath that is a variant of a steam bath or sauna. It has been adopted by many Muslim nations, from Istanbul to Marrakesh. These are similar to the Roman baths, but with more Moorish influences – think intricate stone work. To add a Hamam spin to your own space, think wide open spaces and intricate patterns. Benches are very common in Hamam’s, so if you can add one to your space you can reflect a true Turkish experience!
3. Sentō (Japanese)
Japanese sentōs are communal bath houses that usually always require payment to enter. It is denoted by a large communal bath and a separation of the sexes, similar to a hamam. These can also be called “onsen,” though the latter term technically means it uses hot water from a natural spring. These Japanese bath houses typically use very clean lines and a minimal design aesthetic. Think modern mixed with a touch of organic material, such as bamboo and stone for the bathroom double vanities. And similar to the other two traditional bathing experiences, don’t forget a tub big enough to fit at least two!