It seems like just yesterday that the family home, a monolith that had remained fundamentally unchanged in five decades, began to morph, adapt and reflect the changing lifestyles of its occupants. First, it was the opening up of the kitchen and the advent of the Great Room concept. Now all that familial openness has led to the next big concept—the bathroom as respite.

While the kitchen was emblematic of the importance of our “outer” life (i.e., family), the spa bathroom is emble-matic of the importance of our “inner” life (i.e., well-being). Within these four walls is the investment and expression of our growing commitment to health and wellness. Surrounded by BlackBerrys, cellphones, car pools and careers, we recognize the need for sanctuary. No longer a utilitarian space, the bathroom is now a refuge, a retreat, a place to reconnect with ourselves. It’s a space where we can better nurture our bodies and our minds so that we can better nurture the important people around us.

And this is where we come in—welcome to HomeSpa.

We’re here to chronicle, channel and advise on this emerging spa bathroom trend, something we see as so exciting and pivotal.

Whether your spa bathroom incorporates a hydro-therapy tub for medical-grade muscle relaxation or simply provides a beautiful, serene space in which to contemplate, the spa philosophy starts here and radiates outward. Beyond its walls, you might find organic vegetables in the fridge, a dedicated exercise room or even hot and cold pools in the backyard. Whatever the expression, the spa lifestyle brings calm, balance, energy and simple beauty to our everyday lives.

We hope you enjoy the spaces, ideas, people and places behind our pages. Let us know what you think at aross@spafax.com.