Article:
Achieving the “spa hotel” look at home
By Shelley Anderson
March 2009
These days more of our discretionary funds are probably being reassigned to daily necessities. For some, this means less travel and more weekends at home. So why not make a haven at home in your master bedroom? Just a few simple touches can help you recreate the feel of that favorite luxury hotel suite or spa getaway at a fraction of the cost.
A list and a little legwork will have you enjoying your personal retreat in no time and for minimal expenses.
Start by remembering the details of your favorite place, from the color of the walls to the soaps and lotions. Remember how luxurious the down bedding was? The lighting could be soft and low for a relaxed atmosphere. Make a detailed list of all of the things you liked, include sizes, colors and any other detail you might need. The special touches such as a cozy throw to curl up with, aromatic candles, soothing music and down bedding can be on the list.
Once your list is done, focus on one part of your space. It may be the bed, the lighting or maybe the bathroom. In any case you will feel a greater sense of accomplishment and less overwhelmed if you focus on one part of the transformation at a time.
Now comes the treasure hunt. Shopping the home sections at discount stores can reveal some incredible finds. They are usually one of a kind so don’t expect to go back another day and find a duplicate item, or even the one you went home to think about. On a recent visit I found a king size “Westin Heavenly Bed” down comforter for a fraction of the original price — and much less than a night’s stay.
The clearance section at linen stores will reveal some great deals, too. Candles are plentiful right now, and most are half price. Look for a decorative plate or dish to use as a soap holder or for scented potpourri.
When you get home, start by clearing the clutter of your daily routine from counter tops and nightstands. Use drawers or decorative containers to house these items. Now you have a clear surface to begin your transformation.
The pictures shown are of a typical bathroom with the daily necessities on top of the counter. To create a spa-like feeling, all of the grooming items were relocated in drawers or under the sink in baskets so all you have to do is pull out the basket and it’s all ready for your daily routine.
The after photo shows two accessory items purchased on sale for a fraction of their original cost — candles, a bag of rocks and twigs salvaged from a floral arrangement from last fall. The new soap dish and dispenser were the only items that were a splurge, but were still only about $20. The really cool leaf-shaped soap? I took it home from a hotel stay years ago!
Total investment for the new Spa inspired bathroom was just a little over $100. That’s a lot of look for the money!
Shelley Anderson has been creating interiors in the greater Seattle area since 1990.You may contact her at (206) 719-6814 or email her at
shelley.anderson@shelleyandersoninteriors.com.