From saunas to gyms, more people are prioritizing private, custom spaces in their homes where they can focus on routine without distraction.
Saunas & Steam Showers
A steam shower is typically a stand-alone shower stall that can produce steam without running the hot water. The shower enclosure is sealed off from the rest of the bathroom, creating a self-contained humid environment that can also be used for bathing.
A steam shower is similar to a sauna in that it promotes relaxation with heat, but these two amenities require different equipment. A sauna—even a wet sauna—begins with dry heat from a stove or rocks. Users can choose to add some humidity with steam, but it rarely passes 60%, whereas steam showers provide close to 100% humidity. Saunas also aren’t equipped to handle running water like steam showers are. Saunas get substantially hotter than steam showers do, but because steam inhibits your sweat response, steam showers will allow you feel the effects of the heat more quickly and intensely than the sauna.
A home steam shower costs about as much to install as a home sauna. Both provide similar health and relaxation benefits, though steam offers more relief for dry skin and respiratory issues. If you’re considering including a sauna or steam shower as part of a bathroom remodel, the difference may come down to personal preference and available space.
Home Gyms & Studios
Your home’s design should include more than just your personal style; it also should accommodate your hobbies and lifestyle. If you’re committed to keeping active and working out regularly, a home gym might be a necessary part of the floor plan. Being able to fit a workout in when you have the spare time during the day without having to run across town can be life-changing.
Even better is a space that is beautiful and well thought out. A functional and aesthetic space can be welcoming and energizing. Start by bringing your own personal style into the space. Maybe a rattan light fixture or a fun wallpaper. If you don’t have room for a lot of equipment, opt for pieces that are designed to be easily stored out of the way, like a walking pad that can be folded and hung on the wall instead of a full stationary treadmill. Protect your floors from damage with rubber mats. They will also help to reduce the noise of the equipment, especially if you’re on the second floor of your home.
Wellness & Hobby Spaces
Wellness rooms can be about physical wellness, of course, but they’re also about mental well-being and can encompass anything that makes you feel calm, centered, connected, and rejuvenated. More people are realizing the importance of prioritizing their physical AND mental health. A wellness space can be for many different things: a music room, meditation, library, or even a dedicated space for hobbies. Think about what your goals are before designing your retreat.
Even a small nook exclusively devoted to your wellness space can be beneficial. No matter the size of your space, start with some basic elements and then build from there with things that bring you calm and happiness.
• Add sounds of nature or aromatherapy to lift your mood
• Choose nature’s colors for your eyes to land on, such as blues, greens, and neutrals
• Clear away any distractions
• Surround yourself with plants on the ground, table surface, and hanging
• Make your space comfortable with a cozy throw