Steam Showers: The Perfect Antidote to a Busy Life
Your regular shower could turn into a relaxing and detoxing steam shower at the flick of a switch
Joanna Tovia
28 August 2014
Houzz editorial team. Photojournalist specialising in design, travel and living well. Follow her photodocumentary about pets and the people who love them on Instagram @unfoldingtails
Houzz editorial team. Photojournalist specialising in design, travel and living well.... More
Love having a sauna or aromatherapy steam session when you go on a resort holiday or to the gym? There’s no need to keep it for a special treat – steam showers are taking residential bathrooms by storm as homeowners see the light and take their existing showers to the next level. A regular session in your steam shower is sure to melt away your stress, soothe those aching muscles and calm those frazzled nerves. And if you have trouble sleeping, that could be a thing of the past. Here are some tips to keep in mind if you’re considering making the move.
Sealed and delivered. Because steam has the power to penetrate any porous surface, the waterproofing in an average shower isn’t usually enough for a steam shower. The upper walls and ceiling in this one have roll-on waterproofing as well the standard floor and lower wall treatment.
While sealing a steam shower is important, a transom window can reduce the amount of time it takes for the shower to dry out afterwards. Open the external window, too, and it will dry out in no time. No-one wants to inhale mould and mildew during a steam shower, after all.
Size matters. If you’re building from scratch, it will pay not to go overboard. A steam shower that’s too big will require much more energy and water to perform well, so match the size to the number of people who will be using it at any one time.
More: Bathroom Inspiration: 9 Life-Changing Additions to Your Shower
More: Bathroom Inspiration: 9 Life-Changing Additions to Your Shower
If you’re renovating, don’t feel you need to have a giant bathroom to accommodate a steam shower. The size of the steam generator should be matched to the area of your shower.
Chill out. Steam showers have one up on saunas because you can spray yourself with cold water whenever you need to cool down. This steam shower also has a nifty opening in the door to allow steam to escape when you want it to.
A control panel allows you to set the temperature and length of your steam session. You don’t want things getting too hot and steamy!
Hot seat. Hamams (Turkish steam baths) are traditionally done out in mosaic tiles, but this doesn’t have to be the case in a steam shower. This one has a copper floor and solid stone bench. Along with timber, a solid or composite stone seat is the most comfortable option.
BONUS TIP: No-one wants to sit on an icy cold stone bench when they’re settling in for a relaxing steam session, so make sure your steam shower set-up allows you to warm the bench ahead of time. A shower spray that hits the back wall could be the way to go, or maybe a handheld fixture positioned near the bench.
BONUS TIP: No-one wants to sit on an icy cold stone bench when they’re settling in for a relaxing steam session, so make sure your steam shower set-up allows you to warm the bench ahead of time. A shower spray that hits the back wall could be the way to go, or maybe a handheld fixture positioned near the bench.
Or why not go the natural route and use a hand-carved boulder as a seat?
Deep peace. White and bright is nice in bathrooms, but sometimes a darker colour scheme is the better option if you’re looking to create a cosy, soothing escape zone.
If the rest of your bathroom is white, though, a soothing green can tie in seamlessly.
Added extras. A steam shower has the potential to create a blissful spa experience at home, but be sure to add to its appeal with beautiful loofahs, scrubs and washes to complete the experience.
A Turkish-inspired steam shower takes the experience to the next level. A domed ceiling and mosaic tiles (from Bisazza) are a good start. How welcoming would this Colorado steam room be on an icy winter’s day?
A Bluetooth-enabled light and music system (this one’s from Thermasol) can set the scene for deep relaxation (via an app on your tablet, of course). Add a few drops of essential oil and you’ll further enhance the experience. Eucalyptus can clear the mind, lavender combats stress and bergamot elevates mood.
TELL US
Would you consider a steam room at your house? Share your opinions in the comments section below.
MORE IDEABOOKS
12 Vital Considerations Before a Big Bathroom Renovation
Shower Power: How to Get the Design Right First Time
TELL US
Would you consider a steam room at your house? Share your opinions in the comments section below.
MORE IDEABOOKS
12 Vital Considerations Before a Big Bathroom Renovation
Shower Power: How to Get the Design Right First Time
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So many pros have no clue what to do. Most designers have no clue. Most builders have no clue. There are no building codes to follow in the US or Canada so no general rules to help out.
You need to define the space. Windows, benches, heat, pitch, tile layout - everything. Then decide on a vapour proofing system. This should work with your grout and thin-set selection.
If you need a hand I'd love to help.... But it will cost you. Check out my blog page for more info on getting some extra design help.