How to transform your home into a dream relaxation oasis

Paul Eyers
By Paul Eyers
5 Min Read

In a world where stress is always present, coming home after a hard day at work to unwind is more important than ever.

But for many, the constant pull of digital connectivity and the fast pace of modern life make it almost impossible to truly unwind and escape our daily stresses.

In 2024, finding the right atmosphere to relax in simply requires effort in itself, with homeowners now going that extra mile to make a specific part of their homes a place to decompress. 

But these relaxation renovations don’t have to cause financial stress. Calming, chill-inducing changes are available to suit every budget, making it easier than ever to create your own personal oasis at home.

So sit back and relax as Build-it brings you our best hacks for creating your own wellness and rejuvenation space.

Create a wellness room

If you have a spare room, empty shed, or even garage, why not transform it into a dedicated wellness sanctuary? 

Warm, delicate lighting, soft textures, natural materials, plants and candles can quickly transform any space into the perfect meditation haven. 

Those with a little more cash to splash can consider upgrading their space with a home sauna or ice bath to help relax the muscles after a hard day at work. 

infared sauna
A home infrared sauna has dozens of health benefits and can be the perfect way to relax.

Mariah Burton is a Sydney-based interior designer and co-founder of interior design company Folk Studio, she told us making space at home just to declutter your head is becoming a popular option amongst home renovators.

“It’s becoming a bigger trend among my clients,” she said.

“Saunas are already designed with calming aesthetics like timber and other woods, and clean lines or curves, so play off this.”

“I recommend only incorporating other natural materials like wood, stone and plants into your wellness space.” 

Calm your living area

For those of us who don’t have the luxury of creating our own wellness room, the living space can still serve as a calming retreat.

A repaint to soft, earthy colours and some natural tones, as well as the incorporation of soft texture, plant life, and a quality rug, is all you need to start feeling more relaxed. 

A warm rug can help make any room more relaxing
A warm rug can help make any room more relaxing.

Whites and soft earth tones promote relaxation, while textures like velvet and satin can be incorporated into your furniture for a touch of luxury.

Finish the look off with a quality carpet or rug to create a grounded, serene vibe.

Turn Your bedroom into a sanctuary

When it comes to creating a relaxing space, your bedroom should be the ultimate stress-free sanctuary. 

But Mariah says it’s often the most neglected room in the house, with homeowners not realising the impact your room design can have on enjoying a quality sleep.

And speaking of sleep, that’s exactly where relaxation seekers should start—with a statement headboard that can set the bed apart from other hard surfaces and make the room feel warm and cosy.

A statement headboard can create a more relaxing atmosphere in the bedroom.

Mixing materials, like soft linens with timber or concrete accents, can create depth, while accent colours drawn from your wardrobe can offer a personal touch.

 Lighting also plays a crucial role in creating a relaxing atmosphere.

“Use 2-3 types of lamps, like a table and a floor lamp,  to create a soothing atmosphere and avoid harsh overhead lights.” Mariah advises.

Build a reading nook

Even if you’re working with a small space, a reading nook can be the perfect retreat to get away and enter another world. 

Invest in a plush chair in a fabric-like boucle, which can feel like a warm hug on a cold day.

Pair it with a timber or concrete side table to add subtle dimension, and include a bookshelf filled with comforting items to complete the space.

A dedicated reading nook with a plush chair can be the perfect way to wind down.

Mariah’s final tip is to give the space its own signature scent, which will help your brain recognise that it’s time to slow down.

“Rotate through a diffuser, room spray, and candle with the same scent for a consistent calming effect that will always remind you of home,” she said. 

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Paul Eyers has worked as a journalist for a range of media publishers including News Corp and Network Ten. He has also worked outside of Australia, including time spent with ABS-CBN in the Philippines. Stepping away from the media, Paul spent five years sharpening his tools in construction - building his skill set and expertise within the trade industry. His diverse experiences and unique journey have equipped him with an insider view of Australia’s construction game to dig deep into the big stories.