From calming colour palettes to layered lighting, Laura Hammett shares her expert tips for creating a bathroom that combines lasting style with everyday practicality.

The ultimate luxury is a beautiful space that lasts. A well-designed bathroom should feel like stepping into a five-star spa, with every element thoughtfully considered to ensure your space maintains its aesthetic appeal and quality even after frequent use. We’ve spoken to Laura Hammett, creative director of the eponymous design studio and luxury homeware brand, Laura Hammett Living, on the qualities that make a bathroom truly timeless and effortlessly luxurious.

Building the perfect base

Laura Hammett, creative director of the eponymous design studio and luxury homeware brand, Laura Hammett Living, comments, “I often begin with a carefully chosen colour palette. Paint colour has a profound effect on how the room feels, and in the bathroom I like to use grounding neutrals or uplifting blues and greens that feel serene and refreshing to create a sense of retreat. ‘Sage Mist’ or ‘Storm Light’ from my paint collection are gentle but rich in character, helping to transform the bathroom into a spa-like sanctuary without overpowering the space. These also introduce subtle colour that you won’t tire of in ten years’ time.

In terms of finish, use matte paint to create an effortlessly elegant, velvety colour that absorbs light beautifully, creating a calm, understated backdrop in any room. Timeless and practical, our Immaculate Flat Matt Emulsion have been developed to combine a flat, refined appearance with superior durability. It’s fully washable and resistant to everyday scuffs and stains, making it ideal even for high-traffic areas like bathrooms to ensure it maintains its aesthetic appeal even after a few years of use.”

How to layer lighting

Laura continues, “Transform your bathroom into a spa-like sanctuary through thoughtfully layered lighting. While overhead fixtures alone can feel clinical, a curated blend of soft ambient lighting and strategic accent pieces creates an enveloping atmosphere of calm. I integrate dimmable wall sconces, luminous alabaster fixtures, and delicate frosted glass elements, complemented by discreet LED strips tucked beneath floating vanities and within architectural details. The key is choosing warm white light that bathes the space in a gentle, flattering glow rather than harsh daylight tones. Consider the architecture itself as a canvas for light – backlit mirrors and subtle perimeter illumination add depth and dimension, while casting soft shadows evoke the serenity of a luxury retreat.”

Defining details

“Details that support comfort are often underestimated. The placement of fittings within easy reach, the feel of materials underfoot and adequate storage for toiletries all contribute to how welcoming the room feels. These are subtle elements but they make a significant difference,” advises Laura.

Laura Hammett’s bathroom edit

All available from www.laurahammettliving.com