After working in construction for over twenty-five years, Leena Heiman, owner of MCC Kitchen, Bath & Closet Remodeling, identified one feeling every homeowner wants to feel in their home: peace.
For some, serenity comes in bold colors and larger-than-life patterns. For others, classic designs let sleek furniture create a sense of belonging. When it comes to home remodeling, she shares a secret with East End Taste—prep all your mornings with mindfulness by transforming your bathroom into a spa-like retreat.
Yes, you heard it here first. You don’t need to visit a spa to capture its essence and embrace relaxation. From the moment your feet hit the floor and you brush your teeth, your master bathroom can reflect magical escapism, all without leaving your bedroom.
Once you pick a remodeler, perhaps Heiman, if you’re based in Minneapolis, here’s how to do it.
The Shower
While a luxury freestanding tub with jacuzzi jets is a timeless staple for spa-like bathrooms, Heiman emphasizes the importance of not snubbing the shower. Specifically, opt for a rain shower equipped with a double faucet and grab bars. This feature is popular among luxury hotels and interior designers for good reason: showering under a gentle rain-like cascade is far more enjoyable than being blasted by a hose.
Additionally, the double faucet allows couples to enjoy the shower together without having to take turns—because, after all, happy couple, happy life. For design and maintenance, Heiman recommends panoramic porcelain or quartz, eliminating the hassle of grout for good. And don’t forget a backsplash with built-in shelves to keep your toiletries neatly organized.
A Smart Toilet
It’s 2024, so we’re shocked some homeowners are still unaware that smart toilets are a thing! Heiman says you’ll never have to touch—or remember to put down— the toilet lid again. Flushing will be an action of the past. (Perhaps all your children need one?)
But according to Heiman, the best smart toilets offer so many more luxuries than that. We’re talking about a night light for the darkest hours, buttocks warmer (and massager!) for the coldest months, and a built-in Bluetooth speaker for tunes or that audiobook you’ve meant to get to. There’s never been a more pleasant time to be alive or use the bathroom.
You can also add a heater floor and tower warmer for extra perks.
Light Fixture & Ventilation
Yes, décor is crucial for ambiance, but lighting and proper ventilation truly set the tone. Opt for elegant light fixtures with warm lighting and dimmers, allowing you to create the four key lighting types: ambient, task, accent, and decorative. That way, you can be ready to do your glam or to let your thoughts simmer in the tub.
Now, where are those candles?
A Vanity with Proper Storage and Outlets
Let’s be honest about the key difference between going to a spa and creating a spa-like bathroom: the latter has to support your daily routine, which probably focuses more on productivity than pampering.
With this in mind, your vanity needs to be optimized for organization and functionality—nothing disrupts peace like clutter or walking across the room to plug in your blow dryer.
Heiman says to ask your cabinetry provider about drawers fabricated for your belongings with specific placeholders for beauty products and tools. You’ll never open up a drawer that looks like a pile of junk again.
Speaking of drawers, did you know you can have charging outlets inside them? That’s right! You won’t have to move an inch to dry or style your hair—or even charge your phone while at it.
Complete the look with LED lighting, and your day is off to a rocking start.