A relaxing reprieve, a moment when one can shut the door and take a breath, this guest bathroom provides all the zen needed for a few minutes of peace and quiet. The client and I took inspiration from a hotel spa and created a space that mines the warmth of a sauna with the airiness of a minimalist resort. A feature wall of wooden slats immediately adds texture and a soothing sensibility reminiscent of cedar-scented heat. The adjacent walls received a coat of Benjamin Moore Swiss Coffee at 50%, an elegantly demure off-white that is both sophisticated and welcoming at the same time.

The client and I decided to keep the existing vanity, both a budget- and eco-friendly option, but upgraded it to luxe new levels. I installed modern, flat panel doors in red oak featuring gorgeous wood grain in a gray-tone stain to match back to the feature wall. The countertop is Taj Mahal quartzite with a 12-inch backsplash for an indulgent, neutral look fit for a five-star experience. The sleek chrome faucet is Kohler from their Components line and I combined it with brass pulls and vanity mirror from Rejuvenation for a modern, mixed-metal appeal. For extra lighting necessary in a bathroom, Serena and Lily sconces with frosted glass and rattan details provide soft, flattering light ensuring that everyone walks out in high spirits.

Accenting the calming atmosphere, an ocean photo of a La Jolla surfer from Solstice Interiors brings in the local natural elements. A custom walnut plinth by Fallen Timbers Workshop makes a graphic nod to the slat wall while a custom white oak vase with branches, also by Fallen Timbers Workshop, adds more visual dimension to the mixed woods theme. A vintage, tonal Turkish rug ties in all of the shades of brown and beige for a cohesive look that’s also blissfully tactile to the touch. And, of course, a spa is only complete with fluffy towels and ours, Serena and Lily, hang stylishly on a rustic branch ladder versus traditional rack.