Since the founding of her NYC design firm in 2002, London native Katie Lydon has created interiors that reflect her passion for antiques and architecture as well as her eye for a contemporary art and design. Her work has been featured in national and international design publications, including Domino, Elle Décor, Tatler, Metropolitan Home, Lucky, The New York Times, and Town & Country.
We asked Katie to share her thoughts on designing a luxurious bathroom:
Master bathrooms have become both showpieces and pampering sanctuaries, a place where clients are often willing to splurge. Why do you think this space has become so important?
It is so integral for our life – the place we prepare for the day, recover from the day, and where we self-care. It is important that it be a sanctuary.
What are your top 3 must-haves for a luxury master bathroom?
1. Good Lighting
2. Material Selection is Key – Calming with natural elements like stone and marble.
3. Lovely Accessories
What’s the most memorable, luxurious hotel bathroom you’ve ever seen? Do you often take inspiration from hotels you’ve stayed in? Does one in particular come to mind?
Hotel de Crillon, Paris! Hotel bathrooms certainly influence my design decisions. I am always appreciative of ones that are spacious with clean and crisp touches!
What is the biggest struggle you come across when designing a client’s luxury master bathroom?
The cost of marble and stone is often my biggest challenge when designing master baths. We want to provide something beautiful and impressive without breaking the budget. Finding that balance is very important.
What’s the best way to create ambiance in a bathroom? Lighting? Flowers? Candles? Any favorites?
Lighting and fragrance are integral to bathroom ambiance! Beyond that, the small touches are what really make it special – crisp towels and beautifully scented products complete the experience.