Jennifer Aniston’s tranquil ‘forest bathing’ space has become a talking point of late. Not just because it is an exceptional way to blend indoors and outdoors, but its clever use of Japanese minimalist design principles is the interior design trend experts are currently predicting to take center stage in 2025.
Outdoor bathroom ideas have become increasingly popular this year. However, if you don’t want to take your bathtub fully al fresco, make do like Aniston, and introduce sliding doors to create an outdoorsy feel with none of the upkeep – or lack of privacy – associated with bathing in the garden.
This is where Japanese design fits in. The simplistic, serene principles associated with this trend make it the perfect choice for designing a bathroom with garden views.
Starting inside, Aniston’s bathroom is awash with plenty of marble – on both flooring and bath. Elegant and timeless, marble bathroom ideas still remain one of the most popular and lusted-after materials to use. Using marble in a bathroom is a passport to instant luxury.
Marble is naturally water-resistant and adds a luxurious spa-like feel to a bathroom whether you have a traditional space or a more modern one like Aniston’s.
‘We’re seeing a growing interest in marbles with intricate veining and dynamic patterns such as Calacatta Viola or Calacatta Poanazzo,’ says Victoria Holly, Principal and Founder of Victoria Holly Interiors. ‘Calacatta Viola enchants with its rich purple and lavender veins, while Calacatta Poanazzo boasts captivating, swirling patterns in various shades of gray and gold. These romantic stones infuse a sense of drama and artistry into spaces, elevating the overall aesthetic.’
A similar Japanese-style rock garden
(Image credit: Future / Mark Scott)
Stepping outside, if you want to replicate Aniston’s calming outdoor space, try taking inspiration from Japanese garden ideas.
When it comes to creating a zen outdoor space to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life the planting and materials you use are key to the overall look and finish. While there are several different types of Japanese garden design, including dry gardens with raked gravel and tea gardens with tea houses, stepping stones and stone lanterns, what unites them is an atmosphere of tranquillity and a celebration of nature.
My advice is to start with the elements. Japanese design tends to center around natural materials, such as stone, wood and water. All key parts of Aniston’s garden. Rocks are used to create islands, cliffs, mountains, and of course rock gardens. Be mindful that their shape and placement call for great expertise to avoid any accidents.
You don’t want uniformity or consistency either; quite the opposite in fact. The best stones for an authentic Japanese garden are rounded on one side, and flat on the other if they’re to be walked on.
Equally, opting for minimalism over busyness is just as crucial. The quintessential zen garden is a process of distillation and serenity, so overcrowding your space for the sake of it is a huge faux pas in Japanese culture.
Finally, your overall color scheme should be subtle. Compared to western gardens, the color palette is restrained with an emphasis on foliage rather than flowers – a celebration of green in all its varying shades. Trees and shrubs are used more than herbaceous perennials – plants such as ornamental cherries, acers and rhododendrons are all classic choices, and perfect for even the smallest yard.
As you can see, Jennifer Aniston’s garden is an extension of her house, and the bathtub is the perfect place from which to view the surrounding landscape and contemplate its meaning – just as designer Marcello Villano intended.
Shop essential Japanese garden features
Solar Powered Integrated LED Outdoor Lantern – Set of 2
This statement solar lantern will illuminate dark walkways, borders and add interest to your outdoor space come nightfall, especially if you love bathing in the moonlight. The intricate cut-out design is the star feature and is a guaranteed talking point.
Japanese Traditional Lucky Small Wind Chime
Evoke peace and tranquillity in a traditional Japanese garden with sound. Made from durable cast iron, this captivating wind chime will provide a gentle soothing noise.
These best-selling garden pathway lights come with built-in batteries that work by storing energy from the sun during the day, and they will automatically switch on at dusk, providing a soft glow for several hours at night.
Rain chains are wonderful additions to a garden, from their ability to collect rainwater to their pretty appearance and calming zen sounds, it is no wonder more people are opting to add these to their gardens, including Aniston.
Kiyana Solid Wood Top End Table
Decor trends can often come and go, however, the Japanese minimalist trend is effortlessly timeless. This statement end table merges modern design styles with naturalistic elements for a look that is destined to remain a classic.
If you don’t have a garden or don’t plan on landscaping your current plot, an indoor design is a fantastic alternative. Crafted to provide peace and serenity to your home, this zen ‘mini garden’ is a no-fuss option for Japanese design enthusiasts.
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