How to Design an Elegant Bathroom

A beautifully designed bathroom has the power to transform everyday rituals into quiet moments of calm. It’s one of the most intimate spaces in the home - a retreat where we begin and end our days - and when designed thoughtfully, it can feel both luxurious and deeply restorative.

At Khaya Studio, I believe true elegance comes not from extravagance, but from balance, simplicity, and quality. Here’s how to design a bathroom that feels timeless, serene, and effortlessly sophisticated.

1. Start with timeless materials

Elegance begins with materials that age gracefully. Natural stone, marble, and wood bring warmth and authenticity, while polished brass, brushed nickel, or aged bronze add subtle character. When working on period and heritage properties across Bristol, Bath, and Somerset, I often blend traditional finishes with contemporary detailing - creating bathrooms that feel classic but never old-fashioned.

Avoid overly synthetic surfaces where possible; natural materials not only look more refined but also feel more grounding.

2. Keep the palette calm and cohesive

A soothing, neutral colour palette is key to creating a space that feels luxurious and enduring. Soft whites, warm greys, and muted earthy tones provide the perfect backdrop for statement materials and accessories. Introducing gentle contrast through darker cabinetry or textured stone can add depth without overwhelming the space.

If you love colour, introduce it sparingly - perhaps through painted joinery, patterned tiles, or a feature wall in a soft, enveloping hue. The key is restraint.

3. Focus on proportion and flow

An elegant bathroom feels balanced and intentional. Pay attention to how the space flows - from the positioning of the bath and basin to how natural light moves through the room. If you’re renovating an older property, sympathetic spatial planning can make all the difference, creating harmony between original features and modern functionality.

As a qualified interior designer, I work closely with clients to ensure every decision, from the floor plan to the fittings, feels considered and cohesive.

4. Layer lighting for atmosphere

Lighting can make or break a bathroom. Combine functional task lighting with softer ambient options to create versatility - bright for mornings, calm for evenings. Wall sconces, recessed ceiling lights, and dimmable mirrors can all play a role in crafting a beautifully lit space.

For heritage homes, I often recommend warm, flattering light that complements the architecture and materials rather than competing with them.

5. Choose quality over quantity

When it comes to elegance, less truly is more. A handful of well-chosen pieces - a freestanding bath, handmade tiles, or bespoke joinery - will always feel more luxurious than a collection of trend-led finishes.

I also love to incorporate vintage mirrors, antique stools, or art prints to soften modern lines and give a bathroom real personality.

Elegant bathroom design is about creating a sanctuary - a place that feels restorative, balanced, and quietly beautiful.

If you’re considering a bathroom renovation and would like professional guidance, I offer full interior design and project management services across Bristol, Bath, Clevedon, and Somerset. Whether you’re modernising a period home or creating something entirely new, I’d love to help you design a space that’s both functional and timeless.

✨ Luxury lies in the details - and in how a space makes you feel.