A good, long soak in the bath is a quick-fix way to ease the stresses of the day, but why not take the pampering to a whole new level by adding calming colours and elemental textures that turn your wash-zone into a hotel-style spa retreat? Evoke a Zen-like tranquillity by using natural, cool surfaces such as slate, stone or marble on the floor and walls; soothe the senses by choosing earthy shades of pale grey, muted green and soft browns and using ocean-like turquoise as an accent colour; and add texture with natural wood, soapstone and tinted green glass accessories next to thick, fluffy piles of towels. Now just light the candles, add the bath oil and... relax.

This feature was published in August 2007.