Recent trends have championed lived-in style – even in the most functional rooms of the home. Kitchens have become more cozy and sociable, and bathrooms are now receiving the same treatment thanks to the emerging bathroom lounge trend.
It might be a controversial bathroom trend, but it has triggered a shift in the way we approach bathroom ideas. It’s a room we spend a lot of time in – especially in the mornings and evenings – so some homeowners and designers see a cozy seating area as a fitting addition.
But what exactly is a bathroom lounge, and is it actually practical? We’ve turned to experts to find out if this trend is something to pay attention to or an idea that is more aesthetic than functional.
Is a bathroom lounge a good idea?
(Image credit: Read McKendree / Vanessa DeLeon Associates)
A bathroom lounge is a luxurious way to make this more functional room cozy and homey. While no one is recommending adding a large sofa or oversized furniture, introducing seating options, an ottoman, or pieces you’d have in cozier rooms can add both a stylish a practical element.
‘Bathroom lounges are trending and it is part and parcel of the move towards larger bathrooms again – we are now seeing homeowners choosing to sacrifice two smaller bathrooms for one larger one. Choosing to have a bathroom lounge provides a moment to take some time back for ourselves,’ says Barrie Cutchie, design director at BC Designs.
The self care aspect certainly has appeal, promoting the idea of creating a spa-like bathroom where you can relax and unwind – a design style inspired by the move towards mindful interiors and slower living.
‘If you have the space for it, a bathroom lounge is a great way to add a sense of spa-like luxury to your home. It’s a great way to use your space in sort of a different way and spread out your storage areas for linens and towels and just extend the same level of intention and care to your bathroom as you would to any other area of your home,’ adds interior designer Kathy Kuo.
(Image credit: James McDonald)
However, as many benefits as there are to bathroom lounges, practicality needs to be considered. In larger bathrooms, it might seem like a no-brainer to add a few home comforts, but if you’re working with a smaller footprint, the same can’t be said.
‘A bathroom lounge can be a beautiful addition, though, it’s not always practical for every home. In larger spaces where there’s room to layer in comfort without sacrificing flow or functionality, a bathroom lounge can work wonderfully – especially when it’s integrated to feel harmonious with the rest of the home,’ says interior designer Lauren Gilberthorpe.
‘However, in smaller spaces, a lounge-style bathroom could feel cramped or impractical. It’s about finding the right balance for each home and client and designing a bathroom that feels relaxing yet entirely usable,’ she adds.
How to introduce the bathroom lounge trend to your home
There are plenty of ways to introduce the bathroom lounge trend into your home – even if you don’t have abundant space to play with. Here, designers weigh in on the best ways to create a cozy space in your bathroom without impeding on functionality.
1. Add elegance with a chaise
(Image credit: Dmar Interiors)
The way you approach the bathroom lounge trend will depend entirely on your space. ‘Take stock of how much space you have to work with to create a lounge outside the primary bathroom area or add lounge space to your existing bathroom if you have a large one,’ says Kathy.
You will need to be practical in a small bathroom, so more bijou pieces make the most sense, but if you have a bit more room, you can introduce larger, more elegant pieces.
‘How you furnish and style it is up to you, but it’s nice to have a daybed or chaise, as well as some baskets of towels and some small tables for books, magazines, and to set a beverage on.’
This luxurious chaise comes in plenty of color and fabric options, so you can find something suitable for your scheme.
For something more natural or rustic, this rattan chaise is suitable for indoor and outdoor use, so it’s durable for a bathroom.
If you have a moodier bathroom color scheme, the dark green and wood chaise is a timeless choice. Also offered in three other colors.
2. Keep it simple with a bench or ottoman
(Image credit: BC Designs)
At first glance, this space doesn’t look like a bathroom – that is until you notice the green freestanding bathtub. While the wood flooring and color drenched green walls feel reminiscent of a living room, it’s the traditional ottoman at the center that creates the bathroom lounge effect.
‘The larger space allows you to incorporate some key items including a seating area, small tables, and decorative items. A bench seat or chaise is the popular pick for a lounge and will make your bathroom room feel more versatile,’ says Barrie.
Your bench or ottoman can take on more than one function. When you want to take a moment, it can be a sophisticated seating space, while other times it can act like a coffee table or even a place to display decor. ‘Your bench can be the resting place for your current books, a place to lay out your post-shower fit, or to simply take a moment for rest.’
3. Consider the atmosphere
(Image credit: Future / Richard Powers)
‘The idea of incorporating a lounge area into a bathroom transforms it from a purely functional, utilitarian space into a sanctuary of relaxation and luxury,’ says Louise Ashdown, head of design at West One Bathrooms.
‘If the bathroom is large enough, adding lounge elements, like comfortable seating, soft lighting, or even small décor touches like artwork and plants, can evoke a spa-like atmosphere.’
In this bathroom, a fluffy round rug has been topped with a wooden armchair and a wooden side table, perfect for relaxing after a bath and taking a moment for yourself – plus, it doesn’t impede on the functionality of the space.
A wood chair is perfect for Japandi or more natural schemes. This one comes with plush seat cushions, but they can be removed for cleaning.
A rug not only grounds a room but adds a softer, cozier feel. This machine-washable rug is a great way to zone a bathroom lounge. Size options available.
If you’re introducing a side table to your bathroom lounge, opt for something small to avoid taking up to much space, like this wood design.
4. Add homey appeal with storage style
(Image credit: Ryan Garvin)
The most obvious way to introduce the bathroom lounge trend is through soft furniture pieces like armchairs or upholstered benches. However, it’s just not practical in some spaces, especially if your bathroom is smaller or in an awkward shape.
Instead, look for ways to blend style and function. ‘I also like the idea of having an apothecary cabinet for lotions, potions, and bathtime luxuries; a vanity table is also a nice and appropriate touch,’ says Kathy.
In this bathroom, a vanity area has been created, adding ample storage to the room while creating a comfy space to sit, relax, and get ready. This is a great way to blend homey style and practical requirements that feel achievable.
5. Layer cozy soft furnishings
(Image credit: West One Bathrooms/Cohrane Design/Photography Paul Craig)
Instead of viewing a bathroom lounge as just a sitting area, consider how it can impact the overall look and feel of your bathroom. Adding furniture and textiles adds coziness and a more lived-in style.
‘A lounge in a bathroom shifts the perception of this space. It’s no longer just for getting ready or performing daily routines. Instead, it becomes a personal retreat where you can unwind, read or just take a moment to relax,’ says Louise.
‘Beyond comfort, a lounge area also gives you the chance to introduce textures and layers of warmth – plush rugs, cozy throws, or even side tables for candles or drinks – making the bathroom feel more connected to the rest of the home.’
Lorenzo Cream Grid Throw Blanket
A cozy throw blanket can be moved from room to room as and when you need it, so choose a neutral color that works in every space of your home.
Jo Malone English Pear & Freesia Candle
A scented candle is a must in a bathroom lounge. Perfect for burning as you relax in a chair or as you enjoy a warm bubble bath.
Travertine Scalloped Marble Tray
If you do want to create a display on an ottoman or bench, you’ll need stylish tray to keep everything on. This marble design is certainly luxurious.
The bathroom lounge trend can add style, comfort, and homey appeal to this ordinarily functional room. And while no one is saying to add a sectional to your space, introducing smaller seating can add additional style and practicality that you might not have considered before.
The rise of lived-in style has extended to functional spaces like kitchens and bathrooms. The emerging trend of bathroom lounges is transforming these spaces into cozy, sociable areas.
While controversial, the bathroom lounge trend is changing the way we think about bathroom design. With homeowners and designers embracing the idea of adding a seating area to this essential room, the focus is shifting towards creating a more relaxing and luxurious environment.
Experts weigh in on whether a bathroom lounge is a practical addition or simply an aesthetic choice.
Is a bathroom lounge a good idea?
(Image credit: Read McKendree / Vanessa DeLeon Associates)
Adding a cozy seating area to the bathroom can enhance the functionality and comfort of the space. While large furniture pieces are not recommended, incorporating seating options like ottomans or smaller pieces can bring a stylish and practical element to the room.
‘Bathroom lounges are trending as part of the shift towards larger bathrooms. Homeowners are opting for larger, more luxurious bathrooms, and a lounge area provides a space to relax and unwind,’ says Barrie Cutchie, design director at BC Designs.
The self-care aspect of a bathroom lounge adds to the appeal, promoting a spa-like atmosphere for relaxation and mindfulness, aligning with the trend towards intentional and slower living.
‘If you have the space, a bathroom lounge can add a touch of luxury to your home. It allows you to use the space in a different way and extend the same level of care and attention to your bathroom as you do to other areas of your home,’ adds interior designer Kathy Kuo.
(Image credit: James McDonald)
While bathroom lounges offer many benefits, practicality should be considered, especially in smaller spaces. In larger bathrooms, a lounge area can enhance the overall design and functionality, but in compact spaces, it may feel cramped and impractical.
‘A bathroom lounge can be a beautiful addition, but it’s not always practical for every home. In larger spaces where comfort can be added without sacrificing flow or functionality, a lounge area can work well, especially when integrated harmoniously with the rest of the home,’ says interior designer Lauren Gilberthorpe.
‘In smaller spaces, a lounge-style bathroom could feel cramped or impractical. It’s essential to find the right balance for each home and design a bathroom that is relaxing yet highly functional,’ she adds.
How to introduce the bathroom lounge trend to your home
There are various ways to incorporate the bathroom lounge trend into your home, even if you have limited space. Designers share tips on creating a cozy bathroom lounge without compromising functionality.
1. Add elegance with a chaise
(Image credit: Dmar Interiors)
The approach to the bathroom lounge trend depends on the available space. ‘Assess the space you have to work with to create a lounge area outside the main bathroom or add lounge elements to your existing bathroom if it’s spacious,’ suggests Kathy.
In smaller bathrooms, opt for smaller pieces that fit the space, while larger bathrooms can accommodate more elegant furniture pieces. ‘Consider adding a daybed or chaise, along with baskets of towels and small tables for books, magazines, and beverages,’ she adds.
This luxurious chaise comes in plenty of color and fabric options, suitable for various design schemes.
2. Keep it simple with a bench or ottoman
(Image credit: BC Designs)
Incorporating a bench or ottoman in the bathroom lounge can transform the space into a versatile and cozy area. ‘Larger spaces allow for seating areas, tables, and decorative items. A bench or chaise can make the bathroom feel more flexible,’ says Barrie.
A bench or ottoman can serve multiple purposes, from a seating area to a coffee table or display surface. ‘Your bench can hold books, post-shower attire, or simply provide a moment of relaxation,’ adds Barrie.
3. Consider the atmosphere
(Image credit: Future / Richard Powers)
‘Incorporating a lounge area in the bathroom elevates it from a purely functional space to a sanctuary of relaxation and luxury,’ says Louise Ashdown, head of design at West One Bathrooms.
‘Adding lounge elements like comfortable seating, soft lighting, or decor touches can create a spa-like atmosphere if the bathroom is spacious enough.’
A bathroom lounge in this style features a round rug, a wooden armchair, and a side table, offering a cozy spot to relax without compromising the functionality of the space.
A cozy throw blanket adds warmth and can be used in multiple rooms with its neutral color.
4. Add homey appeal with storage style
(Image credit: Ryan Garvin)
While incorporating soft furniture pieces like armchairs or benches is a popular way to introduce the bathroom lounge trend, it may not be practical in all spaces. In smaller or awkwardly shaped bathrooms, blending style and function is key.
‘Consider adding an apothecary cabinet for toiletries, a vanity table for grooming, or other storage solutions that also add a touch of style,’ suggests Kathy.
In this bathroom, a vanity area provides storage and a comfortable space to sit and get ready, striking a balance between style and practicality.
5. Layer cozy soft furnishings
(Image credit: West One Bathrooms/Cohrane Design/Photography Paul Craig)
Instead of just creating a sitting area, consider how the bathroom lounge can enhance the overall look and feel of the space. Adding furniture and textiles can bring warmth and a lived-in style to the bathroom.
‘A bathroom lounge transforms the space into a personal retreat for relaxation and unwinding. It allows you to introduce textures, layers of warmth, and elements like rugs, throws, and side tables to create a more connected and cozy atmosphere,’ says Louise.
Lorenzo Cream Grid Throw Blanket
A cozy throw blanket can be moved from room to room as needed, adding warmth and style to any space.
The bathroom lounge trend can bring style, comfort, and a homely feel to this traditionally utilitarian room. While a full sectional may not be practical, incorporating smaller seating options can add a touch of style and functionality that you may not have considered before.