“ Prioritizing bathroom upgrades is a reflection of the shift we ’ re seeing toward spending more time indoors and [ on ] self-care . As we ’ re spending more time inside , we are valuing aesthetics and comfort in the design of secondary spaces . And , with the bathroom being the space where we prioritize practicing self-care , … [ it ’ s ] the ideal place to pull out all the stops ,” says Newport Beach resident Lindye Galloway of Lindye Galloway Studio in nearby Costa Mesa .

Galloway and other local experts are ready to assist with insight on the latest in spa bathroom trends and the myriad ways in which you can transform your own space into a luxe oasis .

ELEVATED AMENITIES For Galloway , when it comes to creating a serene bathroom experience , a sleek and spacious freestanding tub , which serves as the room ’ s focal point , is a must-have item . “ Separate bathtub and shower spaces are crucial ,” Galloway says . “ While many bathrooms are designed with two-in-one to maximize space , I prefer to create two distinct spaces to allow each relaxation experience to stand out . After all , there ’ s nothing more soothing than a long soak in a large , beautiful tub .

“ I personally love the luxurious touch of an egg-shaped tub . Not only does the feature provide

A free-standing tub can serve as a great focal point in a bathroom while tile or stone can add unique texture or visual interest , as shown in these spaces ( above and opposite page ) by interior designer Lindye Galloway .

ample relaxation , but the unique curvature of the tub brings an eye-catching element to the space ,” the designer adds .

For Laura Brophy , of Newport ’ s Laura Brophy Interiors , both infrared saunas — which are said to have numerous health benefits , such as improving circulation and reducing stress levels — and steam showers are increasingly popular must-have amenities among her clients . She says both can be

custom built into a residential bathroom space , typically side by side .

“ It just gives you that spa experience in the comfort of your own home and , with everyone being so busy , people are looking for those moments ,” Brophy says , adding that many clients are opting for steam showers with built-in aromatherapy features for an enhanced spalike experience . “ There ’ s nothing like having a great scent in your shower ; it just changes your mood . Have two — have one that smells like rain and one that smells like grapefruit — have your senses woken up to different experiences .”

Notably , Brophy says that , nowadays , you can take your tub to the next level when it comes to creating a self-care experience . Recently , the designer has installed a state-ofthe-art tub by MTI Baths that produces microbubbles , an innovative technology that releases billions of tiny oxygen-infused bubbles , which are said to increase skin hydration and gently exfoliate the skin , among other benefits .

“ It ’ s the most amazing thing ever , and we ’ re putting that into some clients ’ homes , especially clients with skin issues [ like ] eczema or dry skin . It ’ s a game-changer . … It ’ s amazing for wellness and one of the coolest things we ’ ve done in bathrooms ,” Brophy says .

Of course , the most luxurious bathrooms take into account even the smallest of amenities for added comfort . “ We ’ re always doing outlets for toilets so that we can … [ install ] the bidet , which is the most common [ amenity ]; every single bathroom that ’ s techy or upscale has the bidet ,” says Genevieve Chambliss of Newport ’ s Viève Interiors ,

SHADE DEGGES

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