From luxury spa hotels in Singapore to traditional deep bathing rituals in Japan, Asia has been an advocate of healing for centuries and continues to lead the way with modern wellness trends, and we’ve seen Asian-inspired aesthetics such as ‘Japandi’ and ‘wabi-sabi’ taking the interiors world by storm.
Holistic health continues to be popular with Western consumers, demonstrated by an increased demand for wellness goods in the home – particularly in the bathroom. For example, luxury bathroom brand, LUSSO has seen a 275 per cent increase in sales over the past year for its freestanding Japanese soaking bath, a feature which is proven to aid with posture, blood flow, and reducing stress and anxiety.
Following on the heels of earlier Asian-centric aesthetics, there’s a new trendsetter from the East, and it’s all about Bali.
The Indonesian paradise is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, with an average growth rate of 19.80 per cent in 2024. Synonymous with luxury spas and wellness, the Balinese culture of health and wellbeing will be the next big trend adopted across the world’s most luxurious interiors.
International design studio, Rigby & Rigby has recently designed a set of luxury villas adopting this trend for their expansion into Asia. “These luxury villas, adorned with LUSSO bathroom furniture, are not just residences; they are expressions of art, a testament to the unyielding pursuit of perfection,” says CEO and creative director Iain Johnson.
Explaining the desire to bring these trends closer to home, Mike Whitfield, luxury interior expert at LUSSO, explains: “In the world of interior design, few styles are as distinctive and enchanting as modern Balinese.
“It’s a style that beautifully marries the rich cultural heritage of Bali with sleek, contemporary aesthetics, creating spaces that are both serene and modern. This unique blend offers a retreat-like ambience, making it perfect for those looking to infuse their homes with tranquillity and natural beauty.”
So, where do you start if you want to mirror the tranquil ambience of Bali’s hotels, villas and retreats in your bathroom suite, Mike shares his top four tips below.
He says: “Balinese bathrooms seamlessly blend simplicity, sustainability, and nature, allowing you to enhance the serene beauty of Bali’s natural landscapes in your bathroom interior. Invite the outside in by utilising natural materials such as bamboo, rattan, and greenery”.
Keep your colour palette warm
While white bathroom suites are often the default, Mike advises to instead opt for a warmer colour palette to reflect the natural landscape.
“It’s important not to focus exclusively on white, as an all-white approach can lead to a room appearing flat and lacking in inspiration. Earthy tones such as browns, greens and terracotta create a more grounding atmosphere,” he says.
“This colour scheme can be adopted in luxury bathroom suites, featuring a freestanding bath in deep natural tones, such as charcoal, and complemented by light neutral stone tiles to add brightness to the room.”
Bring in rustic textures
Mike shares: “Textures are the key ingredient in crafting the perfect Balinese-inspired space. Together, they help to create a beautiful canvas for further design concepts. I recommend including wooden decor to achieve a rustic appearance that reflects the varying natural landscapes of Bali.
“Complement with stone countertop basins, particularly deep and curvaceous designs, to truly capture the essence of Balinese luxury”.
Keep it minimalistic
Mike explains: “You should avoid combining too many visually noisy or bright elements – they won’t mix well with Asian-inspired simplicity. Adding too much to a space can make it feel cluttered which contradicts the open living concept of Balinese design.
“Minimalism and simplicity are the other vital elements of Balinese design. Allow your bathroom to come to life through tiles, colour scheme and decor choices. Enhance with simple accessories such as plants, flowers and rattan pieces.
“Focus on smaller spa-like elements such as towels, bath robes, bath caddies and candles to subtly create a serene ambience Balinese design is renowned for.”
Upgrade your fixtures
Mike says: “As well as a soothing soak, a spa-like shower experience is essential. I recommend incorporating a high-powered thermostatic shower and a rainfall showerhead to deliver the ultimate spa experience. Enhance with plush towels and soft robes for ultimate comfort after a relaxing shower or soak.”
All imagery credit: LUSSO
