Introducing the Navy and Gold Bathroom Trend

Baths - the offering of solace and relaxation. In today's fast-paced world, taking time for yourself or sharing an intimate moment with a loved one is important for keeping a healthy work-life balance and nurturing our relationships. Romantic baths, whether enjoyed with a partner or as a form of self-care, can be a magical experience that makes us feel loved, relaxed and connected. Whether you’ve had a long stressful day, your bones are feeling achy or your relationship is in need of some romantic attention, a bath could be all you need to feel better. In this blog, we'll explore 17 different romantic bath ideas designed to ignite passion, strengthen bonds, and promote self-love and self-care. The Benefits of Romantic Baths Stress Relief: Baths, especially when infused with calming scents, can help reduce stress and anxiety. The warm water relaxes muscles and grounds the body, while the soothing environment eases a racing mind. Improved Sleep: A warm bath before bedtime can improve the quality of sleep. The drop in body temperature after a bath signals to the brain that it's time to rest. Bonding and Connection: For couples, sharing a bath fosters intimacy and emotional connection. It provides a rare opportunity to be fully present, communicate and unwind together. Self-Care: Taking a bath alone can be a powerful act of self-love and self-care. It allows individuals to disconnect from the outside world and focus on themselves. Setting the Mood for Your Romantic Bath Creating the right ambiance is essential for a romantic bath, whether it's a shared experience or a solo moment. Here are some ways you can set the mood for an ultimate bathing experience: Clean environment: Before creating the ultimate romantic bath experience, there is one vital thing that needs to be done. Create a clean environment. Nothing ruins a romantic setting like a dirty room. Most importantly, make sure to clean the bathtub before-hand, so it’s ready for your romantic evening. Lighting: Dim the lights or use candles to create a soft, warm glow. Consider scented candles to add a subtle fragrance. Additionally, opt for flameless candles or candle-like lamps that give the look and feel of real candles without the risk of a fire. Music: Choose soothing and romantic music to enhance the atmosphere. Classical, jazz, or your favourite love songs can work wonders. You can also search on YouTube for some relaxing rainforest music or meditation music for a zen spa-like atmosphere. Privacy: Ensure that you won't be disturbed during your bath. Lock the door, silence your phone, and create a sense of privacy. Decoration: Scatter rose petals on the water's surface, place fresh flowers in the bathroom, or add floating candles for an extra touch of romance. Also don’t forget the essential ingredients that create a romantic bath, which are listed below. Ingredients for a Romantic Bath Next, let's explore the essential ingredients for a sensual and romantic bath experience. All of these ingredients are easy to find online or in stores. Epsom Salts: Epsom salts are known for their muscle-relaxing properties. They can help ease tension, relieve achy muscles and promote relaxation. Add 2 cups of epsom bath salts to your bath to soothe your body. Essential Oils: Add a few drops of essential oils like lavender, rose, ylang-ylang, or jasmine to the warm bathwater for aromatherapy benefits.  Bath Bombs: Bath bombs come in various scents and colours, making your bath visually and aromatically pleasing. Bath Teas: Infuse your bathwater with herbs like chamomile, calendula, or rose petals by placing them in a muslin bag or a tea infuser. Bubble Bath: A fragrant bubble bath solution can create luxurious bubbles that make your bath feel like a spa getaway. Scented Bath Salts: Scented bath salts can add fragrance and texture to your bath while providing relaxation benefits. Romantic Couple Bath Ideas Sharing a bath with your partner means more weight in the tub, so fill up the bath with less water than you usually would when bathing alone. For ultimate comfort, consider getting a bigger bathtub size that can comfortably fit both of you, like our 1750 mm Lugano Freestanding Bath. Now, let's explore some romantic couple bath ideas: 1. Candlelit Retreat Create a secluded oasis by lighting multiple candles around the bathroom. Scatter rose petals on the floor and in the bath, and enjoy a peaceful soak together. Share stories, exchange massages, or simply savour the tranquillity. Play your favourite chill-out music in the background and embrace each other's company. https://pin.it/Jh9qlxX 2. Wine and Roses Combine two of life's pleasures: wine and roses. Prepare a bottle of your favourite wine or champagne, and bring a bouquet of roses into the bathroom. Enjoy sips of wine and sweet conversations as you soak in the fragrant bath. Additionally you can use romantic scented essential oils like rose, jasmine, or sandalwood to amp up the romance even further. https://pin.it/2dB6TEy 3. Get Sensual with Scents Create a customised aromatherapy experience by choosing essential oils that resonate with both of you. Inhale the scents deeply and let them transport you to a world of relaxation and connection. An oil diffuser is a great addition to a romantic bath with your partner. Some benefits of romantic essential oils include:  Lavender Oil - Decreases anxiety and stress, results in high levels of relaxation. Sandalwood Oil - Helps improve the overall mood of women. Ginseng Oil - Releases brain chemicals which are linked to being beneficial for erectile dysfunction and sexual performance. https://pin.it/2p9ysk4 4. Chocolate Fondue Amp up the romance and feed each other chocolate covered strawberries in the bathtub. Melt chocolate and enjoy a mini fondue session, with fruits, marshmallows and other treats. Surrender to relaxation as you melt away in a warm blissful tub and complete your delicious bathing experience by treating your skin with marshmallow or strawberry scented body butter. https://pin.it/4ODtlsA 5. Herb Haven Essential oils are great but have you ever thought to use herbs in your bath? You can add different types of herbs straight to your warm bath water or if you’d prefer, you can also hang the herbs directly under the running water, add herbs into little muslin bags, or pre-prepare a herbal bath tea to add to the tub. Some of the best relaxing herbs to include in your herb haven are lavender, peppermint, sage and rosemary. Sit in your herb bath and truly relax, whilst soaking in all of the herbal benefits with your partner. You may also want to additionally add some rose and calendula petals to make it even more special. https://pin.it/57m3P37 6. Celebrate in Style If you have something to celebrate, celebrate in style with a bottle of champagne by the bathtub. Place the bottle in a bucket of ice to keep it cold and refreshed. This romantic bath experience can be used to celebrate after your wedding day, anniversary, birth of a child, birthdays and more. Complete this celebratory moment with your favourite finger foods served on a silver platter.  https://pin.it/6usvQDz 7. Spa Date Night Bring the spa home and create the ultimate spa experience for you and your partner with face masks, hair masks, foot scrubs and massage oil. You can even start the evening by giving each other a massage before cleansing and nourishing yourselves in your spa-like oasis. Adding an oil diffuser and relaxing spa music will elevate this experience even more - your own blissful oasis in the comfort of your own home. https://pin.it/58m3nKX 8. Breakfast in Bed Bath Morning baths can be just as romantic as evening ones. Combine breakfast in bed with a bath and serve delicious breakfast on a tray, alongside or across the centre of the bathtub. You can run the bath whilst making breakfast, once the breakfast is done, turn off the taps and enjoy this perfect, nourishing start to your day with your partner. https://pin.it/2Yzb0Qp 9. Romantic Fruit Bath Did you know that fruit baths relieve stress, boost your immunity, improve blood circulation and even nourishes the skin? Add a few slices of citrus fruits like oranges and lemons to your bath and enjoy the fresh scents and beneficial effects with your partner. You can even serve up a fruit salad, some grapes and wine, and feel as if you’ve been whisked away on holiday with all the loving tropical fruity scents. https://pin.it/3QlfKQI 10. Cheese Board Bath Snack whilst you soak with a cheese board in the bath. Imagine it, soaking in warm bubbles, sipping on red wine, and taking a creamy bite of brie on a cracker. And if that wasn’t enough to convince you, research has shown that the steam of a bath gives cheese an even better texture and flavour. If your mouth is drooling, then cheese lovers, this is the romantic bath experience for you. Pair your cheesy evening with red wine, grapes and bubbles. https://pin.it/djHyGll 11. Couples’ Meditation Bath Forget about the outside world and be in complete presence with one another, by sharing a meditation bath. Practice mindfulness by synchronising your breath together to create a deep sense of connection and intimacy. Additionally, play a guided meditation on YouTube that is suited to both of your needs on that particular day. Close your eyes and deeply relax whilst being guided into a deep state of bliss. Pair your meditation bath with bubbles, relaxing essential oils and candles. Lavender oil is particularly beneficial for getting into a meditative state. https://pin.it/3h1UhLp 12. Bubble Bath Bliss Sometimes, a simple bubble bath together can be just as impactful and romantic as all of the above. Opt for a scented bubble bath to make the experience even more heavenly. Play some chilled music in the background, and deeply relax with easy, soft conversation and closed eyes. https://pin.it/x9FTF0T Romantic Bath Ideas for Self-Care For those seeking a solo retreat, self-care baths can be just as romantic and can be a powerful way to unwind and rejuvenate. Here are some romantic bath ideas for self-care: 1. Stress-Relief Soak When life feels overwhelming, try a stress-relief bath. Add 2 cups of epsom salts, a few drops of lavender oil, scented bubbles and some soothing music - this can work wonders for melting stress away. Additionally, light some candles and turn off the lights to fully enjoy this sacred alone time. 2.  Beauty and Pampering Make your bath a spa-like experience by incorporating all of your skincare treatments. Let a face mask and hair mask soak into your skin and hair whilst you exfoliate and indulge in a long soak. Continue your self-care treatments after your bath and make sure to moisturise your skin. You'll be left feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. 3. Meditation Baths Combine the tranquillity of meditation with the soothing effects of a bath. Light some incense, play meditation music, and focus on your breath as you soak. Close your eyes and float away in epsom bath salts and lavender oil. Lighting some candles and turning off the lights can also help you get into a meditative state. 4. Healing Bath Rituals Explore the world of healing baths, such as herb-infused baths or natural remedies like ginger baths for detoxification or oatmeal baths for soothing irritated skin. Ritual bathing is a wonderful practice for self-care and feeling grounded in your body. 5. Luxury Lychee Soak Lychee has skin soothing properties and is also known for regenerating the skin. A study published by the Natural Medicine Journal has shown that lychee is not only a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, it also improves blood circulation in the skin. Adding lychee to your bath can ensure your skin remains healthy and glowing. It is also great for healing wounds faster. Summary In the hustle and bustle of modern life, taking time for romance and self-care is not just a luxury; it's a necessity. Romantic baths offer a perfect opportunity to connect with your partner, rekindle the flames of passion, or show yourself some much-needed love and attention. By setting the mood, choosing the right ingredients, and embracing different bath ideas, you can create unforgettable experiences that nurture your relationships and your well-being. So, draw that bath, light those candles, and embark on a journey of relaxation, intimacy, and self-discovery through the art of romantic baths.

Installing a wet room is the perfect way to make a small bathroom feel more open and expansive. A minimalist design allows you to create a truly tranquil and elevated space. The added benefit of a minimalist design is its inherent tranquillity. The minimal aesthetic cuts down on clutter, both physical and visual, turning your wet room into a serene sanctuary. Bringing the two together, however, can be a challenge, and minimalist wet rooms can easily end up feeling too stark and functional. To avoid this, you can include a statement piece like a Japanese Toilets or a unique ceiling mounted shower head that blends form and function seamlessly. That’s why we’ve created this complete guide to wetroom ideas for small bathrooms. It’s full of pictures and should leave you feeling inspired and ready to go! Minimalism and functionality need not be mutually exclusive; when applied creatively, they can coexist in a small space, giving you a bathroom that's both practical and beautiful. 1. Go all glass While the classic wet room has no shower screen or enclosure, you can create the illusion of extra space in a small bathroom by installing a glass screen. This not only looks seamless and stylish but acts as a functional barrier to contain water while maintaining a sense of openness and accessibility.  If you're feeling bold, consider textured or tinted glass for an additional layer of style without compromising the minimalist aesthetic. By separating out wet and dry spaces, you can elevate your bathroom experience. For example, you could shower in one section and then get ready in another or separate your toilet for added hygiene.  Source 2. Choose wall-mounted fixtures Wall-mounted fixtures are the perfect addition to a small, minimalist wet room because they allow you to free up floor space and remove clutter. And there’s so much choice out there depending on which minimalist style you are looking to implement.  Wall-mounted fixtures aren't just functional; they are also an artful way to express personal style within a limited space. Opt for mirrored cabinets for additional functionality or choose a long cabinet if you want to maintain a sleek appearance. You can also add a shower niche or shelf to provide a touch of thoughtful detail and sophistication.  Going a step further, integrated LED lighting within the fixtures can accentuate their form and function, so this is a great option for a small space. .  Source 3. Implement under-floor heating Under-floor heating is especially valuable when you're dealing with a limited room as it eliminates the need for bulky radiators or heating fixtures. By installing it, you also add an air of luxury to any space, turning a simple wet room into something that feels more like a spa. Beyond luxury, under-floor heating has health benefits too; it’s a dust-free and allergen-free way to heat your space.  Source 4. Opt for a back-to-wall toilet Back-to-wall toilets have a hidden cistern and plumbing system, ensuring a streamlined and uncluttered appearance. While wall-hung loos are elevated off the ground, back-to-wall loos sit directly on the floor. They are a favourite choice for modern wet rooms due to their design where only the toilet bowl is noticeable. This sleek design not only minimises visual clutter but also offers easier cleaning, resulting in a tidier, more spacious-looking room. 5. Add large format tiles Large format tiles offer a sense of visual space, even in a smaller room. When opting for a wet room, stone and tile can be seamlessly integrated into the grating, ensuring an expansive aesthetic. Moreover, using fewer tiles translates to fewer joints, giving  your wet room a cleaner, more unified appearance. It's worth noting that we provide waterproof membranes within our wet room packs, but for those seeking added reassurance, these membranes are also available separately for that extra peace of mind. As Creative Director Roisin Lafferty describes, it’s also “a case of the less grout, the better in wet rooms for longevity and cleanliness.” So large format tiles are the perfect choice if you want something low-maintenance. In the realm of interior design, larger tiles are known to create a roomier, more open feel, which is perfect for a small bathroom. Source 6. Go monochrome Source A monochrome or matte black design can complement a minimalist wet room by emphasising simplicity. The absence of colour removes visual clutter whilst creating an unparalleled sense of elegance.  What’s more, even smaller fixtures can create a cohesive, sophisticated statement when used in a small space. For example, you could introduce matte black towel bars to elevate your wet room’s look. These seemingly small details make a big difference in creating a harmonious space. 7. Maximise natural light Natural light is key to creating a sense of spaciousness in a small, minimalist wet room. And you can increase it by: Installing larger windows or adding a skylight Using light-reflective tiles and materials such as those with glossy or glass finishes Positioning mirrors strategically — for example, placing a large one on the wall opposite the shower area Besides making the space feel larger, natural light can boost your mood and help regulate your circadian rhythm, making for a healthier, happier living space. Ready to create your own seamless design? Optimise your small bathroom with St John’s easy-drain, easy-install wet room-in-a-box. Explore your design ideas and create your own minimalist haven today!

Brushed brass has withstood the test of time, weaving its golden charm into modern interiors. While its appeal is undeniable, the key lies in striking the right balance. When done well, a brushed brass bathroom can exude elegance, radiating both a vintage charm and modern sophistication. Overdo it, and you could end up with something that looks overdone and dated - that’s where we step in. In this guide, we delve deep into the art of creating the perfect brushed brass bathroom. From handpicked fixtures to complementary accessories and materials, we'll help you create a bathroom that’s modern, trendy and warm.  Brushed brass bathroom fixtures:  Michelle Boudreau of Michelle Boudreau Design explains, “Brass should be used sparingly, simply, and thoughtfully as a touch or a small detail. You don't want the subtle, magical glow of brass to become blinding.”  While it's possible to make a bold statement with a brushed brass bath, it's often more effective to select smaller brushed brass accessories. These subtle touches can be elegant accents in the space. This, balanced with the right colour palette, gives you a grounded and elevated look.   Opting for brushed brass bathroom taps  Brushed brass bathroom taps are easy-maintenance, highly durable and can add a warm tone to an otherwise cold sink. To set your brass taps to stand out, opt for a basin made of white marble or dark granite and complement with coordinating accessories such as a towel ring (more on this later).   Choosing a brushed brass bathroom mirror A bathroom mirror isn't just a functional element; it's a statement piece, a reflection of your style, and it can even be the centrepiece of the room. When framed in brushed brass, a mirror can elevate the entire space, adding a layer of glamour and warmth. Round or oval brushed brass mirrors create a certain softness, breaking the monotony of straight lines and adding a bit of flair. They can act as a gentle contrast in bathrooms with more angular designs. On the other hand, rectangular or square mirrors complement a minimalist aesthetic, reinforcing a modern and streamlined look. Source Brushed brass accessories Brushed brass isn't just about the big statement pieces; it's also in the finer details. Even the most functional fixtures can be transformed into dazzling design elements with a touch of brushed brass. Consider elevating your space with brushed brass basin wastes, towel rings, or shower valves.  While white or black toilets, towels, and shower fittings naturally complement brushed brass, creating a classic and dramatic contrast, there are other hues to consider. Soft pastels, like blush pink or sage green, can introduce a touch of warmth and sophistication. Earthy tones, such as taupe or terracotta, can ground the space, making the brass accents pop even more. For a more modern twist, deep navy or rich emerald can serve as a luxurious backdrop, allowing the brushed brass accessories to truly shine. In essence, the magic of brushed brass lies in its versatility. Whether you're aiming for a minimalist aesthetic, a vintage charm, or a bold contemporary look, the right colour pairings can elevate your bathroom, turning everyday fixtures into design statements. Which are the best brushed brass bathroom lights? If you’re looking to enhance a warm, inviting atmosphere and take your brushed brass design to the next level, you can install lighting made with this material. Consider the following points when making your choice: Fixture type: Determine the type of lighting fixture that best suits your bathroom's layout and style. Wall sconces, ceiling lights, or pendant fixtures all have their unique advantages and can contribute to the overall ambience differently.  Lighting placement: Think about where you need the most illumination in your bathroom and what kind of statement the brushed brass would make in that place. For example, installing a brushed brass pendant light directly above the bathtub could create a sense of luxury.  Size and scale: Pay attention to the size and scale of the fixture relative to the size of your bathroom. A fixture that is too large or too small can disrupt the overall balance of the space. Source How to bring a brushed brass design together: Embracing the brushed brass trend in bathroom design is about more than just incorporating a popular material; it's about crafting a space that exudes warmth, luxury, and timeless elegance. To truly capture the essence of this trend and create a cohesive look, it's essential to strike the right balance between textures, colours, and materials.  Balance Brushed Brass with Muted Tones Brushed brass, with its radiant sheen, has become a sought-after choice for anybody who wants a touch of sophistication in their bathrooms. To really help it stand out and capture attention, it's important to balance it with the right colour palette. Muted colours, particularly whites, greys, and neutrals, are the perfect partners. These shades don't just complement the brass but also instil a sense of tranquillity and calmness, turning the bathroom into a serene retreat. Vanity units in soft neutrals or basins in understated whites can be the ideal backdrop for brushed brass fixtures. When these products are set against a wall painted in muted tones, the result is a blend of luxury and simplicity. The brass fixtures stand out, yet they don't overshadow, so that the bathroom remains a place of relaxation. Source Contrast brass with other textures  Brushed brass, with its muted matte finish, is rich and sophisticated. However, to truly make it stand out and add layers of depth to your design, it's essential to play with contrasting textures. Think of your space as a canvas, and the textures you introduce as the layers that add depth, intrigue, and character. One effective approach is to juxtapose the sheen of brushed brass with high-gloss elements. Imagine brushed brass taps set against a backdrop of glossy tiles. The reflective surface of the tiles amplifies the light, making the brass taps stand out even more. This interplay between matte and shine creates a dynamic visual interest, drawing the eye and adding a touch of modern flair. But don't stop at glossy tiles. Consider introducing other textures like smooth marbles, rough stones, or even soft textiles. Each texture interacts differently with brushed brass, offering a myriad of design possibilities. For example, a brushed brass light fixture hanging above a rugged stone countertop can evoke an industrial-chic vibe, while the same fixture above a sleek marble surface leans more towards classic elegance. In essence, contrasting textures is not just about aesthetics; it's about creating a tactile experience. It invites touch, evokes curiosity, and ensures that every corner of your space tells a unique story, with brushed brass playing the central role. Source Avoid mixed metals When curating the perfect brushed brass bathroom, harmony and cohesion are key. Brushed brass, with its distinctive warmth and elegance, can easily become the star of the show. But introducing multiple metals can risk overshadowing its beauty and making the space feel cluttered or disjointed. Too many contrasting metallic tones can disrupt the visual flow, making the room look busy rather than integrated. Instead, let the brushed brass shine by making it the primary metal in the room. That said, if there's a need to introduce another metal, it's good to opt for something that complements rather than competes. Warm-toned materials, such as matt black, can offer a contemporary edge without detracting from the brass's charm. Similarly, chrome, with its neutral sheen, can subtly enhance the space without causing a visual clash. Source Transform your bathroom into a sanctuary of elegance with brushed brass. Dive into 34 St John's curated collection of premium fixtures and accessories, and elevate your space today

If you’ve spent any time on Pinterest or interior design blogs this year, you’ll have heard people talking about the brushed brass bathroom trend. A statement in any space, including it in your bathroom is a great way to make a design that stands out from the crowd.  But why exactly is brushed brass so popular right now? And how can you implement it without making your bathroom look too dated or too striking? These are the questions we consider in this guide, looking at tips for creating an elevated and contemporary space that features the metal.  What is brushed brass? Brushed brass is a stylish and sophisticated finish characterised by its warm, golden appearance and matt textured surface. Unlike polished brass, which is often glossy or shiny, in brushed brass, the metal undergoes a finishing process that involves brushing or sanding. The result is that it has fine, parallel lines or grains.  The allure of brushed brass Brushed brass was a staple of 80’s interior design, famed for its luxurious and opulent appearance. And, in 2023, we’re seeing a resurgence as interior designers show just how versatile this metal can be.  Offering both vintage appeal with a contemporary edge, an edgy look with a welcoming aesthetic, it’s the perfect complement to a warm-toned bathroom.  Some of the other advantages of using it in your space include:  Durability. Brushed brass is known for its resilience and resistance to tarnish. Ease. Brushed brass is relatively easy to clean and maintain. Enhanced light. Brushed brass amplifies and reflects light, making your bathroom appear brighter and more inviting. How to incorporate brushed brass in a modern bathroom design These are the five key tips to follow to ensure that brushed brass doesn’t overwhelm your bathroom design…   Use it sparingly As Michelle Boudreau of Michelle Boudreau Design describes, “Brass should be used sparingly, simply, and thoughtfully as a touch or a small detail. You don't want the subtle, magical glow of brass to become blinding.” Choosing a brushed brass basin waste, towel ring or shower valve, for example, is a great way to add a subtle glint that catches the eye without overpowering.  Opt for accents Once you have a few key brushed brass fixtures, you can also incorporate accents such as soap dispensers and toothbrush holders. These will draw the eye and create a cohesive look that manages to remain elevated.  Contrast it with the right colour palette  To allow the brass to take centre stage, the rest of your colour palette should be more subtle and muted. Think soft whites, cool greys, and deep blacks. These neutral tones provide a sleek backdrop that allows the brushed brass accents to shine as the focal point.  Be careful about which metals you mix Metal mixing is a controversial point in interior design, but you can navigate the issue by keeping brushed brass as your dominant choice and then choosing complementary tones such as brushed nickel, matte black, or chrome which share similar muted or matte finishes. Balance textures in the space One way to create depth and interest in your bathroom is by pairing brushed brass with a smoother surface like glossy tiles or sleek acrylic. Just be careful not to add too many contrasting textures.   Ready to transform your bathroom into a space that’s always ahead of the trends? Look to St John for all of your brushed brass bathroom furniture and accessory  needs and timeless design advice.