In recent years, the average bathroom has morphed from merely a functional space into more of a spa-like retreat in the comfort of home. From sitting for relaxing to bathtubs that rival those of five-star resorts, the bathroom can be your daily escape. Here are some dreamy Southern bathrooms that may inspire you to redecorate — or completely renovate.

A touch of green

This Christopher Phelps-designed home, built by Arcadia Custom Homes, is located in the Meadows at Weddington in Weddington, NC. Traci Zeller of  Traci Zeller Interiors wanted to create a “respite for the homeowners.”

“To me ‘busy’ designs don’t belong in bathrooms, because who wants to start the day already feeling busy?” Traci says. The freestanding tub is nestled into an alcove, which Traci used to create an intimate feel. The Caesarstone countertops and porcelain tile, both from the Tile Collection, are luxurious, maintenance-free surfaces. Traci kept the colors light with gray cabinets, but provided pops of green on the Roman shades and throughout to bring the feeling of the outdoors inside. Rohl faucets in polished nickel are simple and elegant (Traci’s favorite combination), and elongated custom mirrors add to the open feel.

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A light space with just a touch of color makes for a calming spot in which to start your day. Image: Provided by Traci Zeller Interiors

Bold Blue Bath

“This was definitely one of the most fun baths I’ve had the opportunity to design,” Karen Kettler, owner of Charlotte-based Karen Kettler Design says. “This client was adventurous with design and color and wanted clean, contemporary lines.”

The Myers Park homeowner wanted patterned tile, so Karen used tile from LiLi Cement (Marina 5) to create a bold and bright foundation for the bathroom. To complement the floor tile, Karen then selected a harmonious paint color and finishes, such as the tile on the shower walls from Crossville Tile, the Walker Zanger Sixth Avenue Penny shower floors and the fabulous Daniella bathtub from Hydro Systems. The showerhead and the faucets are from Jaclo Industries.

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This rich blue bathroom beautifully balances pattern and texture. Image: Joe Purvis

You, too, can be Eloise!

Did you read about Eloise and her adventures at The Plaza when you were younger? Did you ever dream of living in a glamorous hotel? In Atlanta, the residences in the Mandarin Oriental let you do just that. When Atlanta-based designer Jessica Bradley’s clients moved from a single-family home to the luxurious Mandarin Oriental in Buckhead, she was tasked with making the space feel like a home, not a hotel. The bathroom was one of the key areas to make the space feel like a zen-like retreat and not just a quick stay. The tub and the Circa Lighting light fixture will ensure that you never want to check out.

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A free-standing tub and bathroom flooded with light are two keys to a relaxing, functional bathroom. Image: Jeff Herr Photography

A quiet space 

Charlotte In-Vironments Inc. by Jeanine DeVaney was responsible for the architectural design of this 1950s Myers Park home. “Their team was able to create a luxurious master suite, including this master bathroom and an oversized closet, out of an awkwardly shaped 1950s home,” Traci Zeller says. “Interior design needs an appropriate architectural envelope, and this bathroom was no exception.” The finishes were kept simple and low maintenance. The soft curves of the freestanding tub and its polished nickel floor-mounted faucet from Delta create the focal point of the room. The sconces are from Hudson Valley Lighting, and we love that Traci created a built-in bench in the space as a quiet spot to brush your teeth, put on your shoes or read a book. Since the homeowner has four children, the fabric by Crypton is durable and easy to care for.

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Clean lines and neutral tones are soothing and welcoming. Image: Provided by Traci Zeller Interiors
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A peaceful nook provides space for relaxing and reading. Image: Provided by Traci Zeller Interiors

Clean lines 

This transitional bathroom, located in Charlotte’s Cotswold neighborhood, was designed by Karen Kettler and focuses on clean, contemporary lines to create a modern, warm and inviting space. “This bathroom was part of a large renovation project with Ali McPhail Interior Design,” Karen says. “The renovation was to create a more modern space, and we accomplished that in the bathroom with tile patterns on the wall by Walker Zanger, floor and shower both by Crossville Tile, neutral colors and beautiful custom cabinets.” Faucets and sinks are by Kohler; knobs are from Atlas Hardwares; countertops are Shadow Storm Marble from Cosmos Granite and Marble.

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This Cotswold bathroom, even in its all-neutral palette, exudes character. Image: Sharon Payne Maker
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This bathroom balances traditional and modern elements. Image: Sharon Payne Maker

We hope you find these spaces as inspiring as do!

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Author: Erin Maddrey
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Erin Maddrey