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As we look to take our bathroom space to the next level, the spa-inspired bathroom design is certainly a most sought-after style. Bringing all the wonderful features of spas into our own bathroom allows us to focus on our well-being while creating the most calming of spaces. But, have you thought about where the creation of the spa came from and how it’s changed over the years?
Here, The Bathroom Showroom continues with its short but fascinating informative series. Every month we look at the origins of our bathroom fixtures. This month we take a look at the history of the spa and why it's such a popular design for recreating in our own bathrooms.

Where Did ‘Spa’ Originate?

There isn’t a definite version as to where the term spa originated. Some experts claim it was thanks to the Romans and their love for plentiful roman baths. The term spa in Latin means ‘solus per aqua, translated as health through water. 
Yet, others suggest that it was the actual town called Spa in the country of Belgium where the term originated. 
There are also those who believe the term spa comes from the ancient language espa, meaning spring, or the old English word spaw, meaning spa!

Why Is It Called a Spa?

Regardless of where the term spa was first coined, the reasoning behind it concerned baths that boasted healing powers. For Roman soldiers returning from battle, hot mineral springs were favoured when tending their wounds while helping them heal their aches and pains. 
Later on in Europe, individuals with specific diseases were encouraged to find natural springs and bathe in them for increased health benefits.

Spa History Timeline

Making the best of a Roman tradition, from there on, saunas and steam rooms were introduced around the world to take wider advantage of the healing that was associated with spas and hot springs.
By the time the Elizabethan period arrived, Britain had fully bought into the idea of spas for leisure, creating spa resorts throughout the country for many more people to access.

Contemporary Spas Targeted Lavish Luxury 

By the late twentieth century, spas were seen as simply luxury establishments that, along with afternoon tea, completed a day of lavish treatments. For many, these were based in hotels as an additional service during stays and predominantly used by and indeed aimed at women.

21st Century Spas Welcomed All

As attitudes towards well-being began to change, the 21st century saw a change in the way spas promoted their services. With a drive to become more inclusive, everyone was encouraged to visit spas with the intention of wellness as opposed to luxury treatments. Alongside developing spa breaks, more began opening their doors with the aim of providing a wellness centre. This meant we’re now more likely to see spas offering meditation, yoga, and fitness classes alongside alternative medicinal guidance.

Spa Bathrooms Has Become Immensely Popular Designs

After a worldwide pandemic in 2020, those who couldn't get to a local spa took to creating their very own in their bathroom. Not wanting to lose the many benefits of regularly attending a spa, 2020 saw a rise in spa-inspired bathrooms and searches on how to make your bathroom look like a spa.
From spa-lighting choices on a budget to the tips we can take from spas to use in our own bathroom, the future of a spa-inspired bathroom has never been more achievable.
If you’re looking to create your very own spa-inspired bathroom, book an appointment with The Bathroom Showroom. Experts in all things bathrooms, we can help turn your dream bathroom into a reality.