The natural beauty of wood baths

Many people do not consider the possibility of using wood as a material in decorating a bathroom, as it is often assumed that water and wood are not a good combination. This used to be the case with untreated wood, as it is more prone to warping and mould damage when water is present. However, wood today is stained and treated to minimise or even eliminate such concerns and so can be a fantastic choice of material for use in the bathroom.

The central piece of almost every bathroom is the bathtub; wood baths are an excellent way to bring this material into the room and add a rustic touch to the decor. A sleek, varnished and panelled wooden bath is an excellent choice for a contemporary bathroom, but if you want to play up the historical, aged look that wood can bring to a room, you can use rough sanding, nails and unvarnished wood on your bath to help create this feel. If you are concerned about the lifespan of wood baths, or simply do not wish to commit to a bath made entirely from wood, you can add wood panels to a basic porcelain tub, thereby creating a similar look with less of a commitment. On a more practical note, wooden baths are a great choice for those who have very young or elderly people living with them, as these types of bathtubs are far less slippery than, for example, a porcelain or fibreglass tub, making them safer.

Modern bathrooms are often associated with shiny, minimalistic surfaces and an almost clinical look. However, if you are the kind of person who wants to bask in the tub for an hour or two, it’s safe to say that the more welcoming, cosier appearance which comes with the use of wooden materials is a better choice. You needn’t choose between modern practicalities and traditional aesthetics; today you can have the best of both worlds. Wood baths are the perfect example of this, as they are sturdy and quite durable, yet add a warmth to the room which other materials simply cannot achieve.

Taking a bath is a relaxing, almost ritualistic experience which many people rely on to melt away the stresses of the day. Natural textures and materials are an important part of creating the ultimate relaxation experience. However, if the main surfaces of your bathroom happen to be quite minimal and somewhat harsh, it isn’t necessary to completely redecorate, as simply adding a wooden bath will soften the look of the room dramatically. The natural wood grain will add an interesting texture to an otherwise simple bathroom. Walnut is a wonderful type of wood to use in a bathroom, as it adds depth and elegance to any room. Lighter woods such as beech and pine can be stained to match the rest of the colours in the room, however almost every kind of wood looks beautiful if left unpainted. Wood baths may require treatment every few years to maintain their stylish appearance.