When redesigning my bathroom, I wanted to create a space that felt relaxing, luxurious, and reminiscent of a spa. However, there’s one trend that’s taken over bathroom design that I’ve intentionally chosen not to follow. It’s a trend that’s often recommended by designers to create a calming, spa-like atmosphere: the artful display of neatly folded towels. While this design trick may work for many, I’ve decided to skip it, and here’s why.
1. The Appeal of Neatly Folded Towels
One of the easiest ways designers suggest to add a spa-like vibe to a bathroom is by displaying neatly stacked towels. The idea is simple: place freshly folded towels on open shelving or on the vanity, making them look like a well-curated decorative feature. This gives the impression of luxury and relaxation, making the space feel like a hotel or spa retreat.
Interior designers like Molly Kidd and Alice Arterberry swear by this trend, claiming it brings a sense of tranquility and order to the space. Freshly pressed towels not only look good but also evoke the idea of luxury, encouraging a soothing, spa-inspired experience. However, despite its appeal, I’ve chosen not to follow this trend.
2. Why I’m Opting for Closed Storage Instead
While my bathroom does have the perfect space for open shelving where I could display towels, I’ve opted for closed-off storage. Why? Simply put, I’m not convinced I could keep the towels looking pristine and perfectly folded at all times. As much as I wish I could maintain that effortless, luxurious look, I know I’d likely end up throwing them onto the shelves in a rush, and they would soon become disorganized and dusty.
I’ve accepted that I’m not the type of person who can keep things perfectly arranged all the time, so closed storage is a much better fit for my lifestyle and personality. It’s not about rejecting the idea of a spa-like bathroom; it’s about finding what works best for me and my habits.
3. Embracing Spa-Like Vibes Without the Towel Trend
Despite bypassing the towel-folding trend, there are many other ways to create a soothing, spa-like bathroom environment. Not all luxury or wellness is about soft neutrals and perfectly placed decor. Wellness is also about feeling rejuvenated and invigorated, as well as relaxed.
For example, bright and vibrant colors can be just as calming as soft tones. Artist Emily Forgot suggests using summer-inspired hues—such as sunny yellows, calming blues, and earthy greens—to create a comforting space. These colors can make you feel wrapped in warmth and nature, offering a different kind of luxury that’s just as effective in a bathroom setting.
4. The Power of Color in Creating a Relaxing Bathroom
Incorporating colors like yellow, which is often associated with sunshine and warmth, has proven to be a great way to foster a sense of relaxation in the bathroom. My bathroom, with its south-facing windows and plenty of natural light, is the perfect space to embrace these tones. By leaning into the natural light and surrounding myself with warm, soothing colors, I can achieve the spa-like atmosphere I desire without needing to follow every trend.
5. Taking a Personalized Approach to Bathroom Design
Design experts consistently advise against following trends blindly. The most important thing is to design a space that fits your needs and lifestyle. By considering how I’ll actually use the bathroom and what will make me feel relaxed and at ease, I’ve made decisions that feel right for me. While towel-folding might be an easy fix for others, my focus is on creating a space that’s personalized and functional for my life.
Choosing not to follow the neatly folded towel trend is just one of the ways I’m personalizing my bathroom design. By opting for closed storage and embracing colors that bring me comfort, I’m ensuring that my bathroom remains a peaceful, spa-like retreat without having to conform to every design trend. Designing your space should be about what feels right for you, not about following the latest trends. And I’m confident that my choices will help create a bathroom that’s both practical and calming.
