How to Make a Dreamy Meditation Oasis at Home, According to the Queen of Chill
Don’t let a lack of space deter you from creating your own modern sanctuary. Here, Chillhouse founder Cyndi Ramirez-Fulton reveals how she designed a small yet serene retreat inside the perimeter of what might seem like an unexpected location.
It’s no surprise that the home Cyndi Ramirez-Fulton shares with her husband in New York City is infused with calm, peaceful vibes. As the founder and CEO of Chillhouse—the Lower East Side’s laid-back cafe/day spa—Cyndi has designed their contemporary one-bedroom apartment to foster that same sense of relaxation and tranquility.
"I love our home because we are so comfortable here, and I am always making tweaks to make it better and better," says Cyndi. "Our home is my escape; it has truly become my sanctuary."
Cyndi Ramirez-Fulton is the founder and CEO of Chillhouse, a laid-back cafe/day spa in Manhattan that offers massages and manicures, along with warm pastries and colorful lattes.
Photo by: BFA
Although the couple’s airy abode is limited in size—a common challenge with city-living—the lack of square footage hasn’t restricted Cyndi from prioritizing moments of self-care and reflection. The design and cultural influencer explains that she’s been able to cultivate her own oasis in their bathroom, despite having to share the space with her husband.
"In my dream scenario, he and I would absolutely have separate bathrooms," Cyndi notes when highlighting the importance of having your own retreat when sharing a home. "Our bathroom is the place I go to close out my day," she says. "I use this area as my personal space to not only unwind but also practice mindfulness and self-care."
For Cyndi, lighting is a key component when designing a serene bathroom oasis. "Integrating adjustable lighting, especially at the mirror and sink, is a wonderful way to help create an at-home spa atmosphere."
Photo by: Jens Bösenberg
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Shop"After a long day, I love retreating to our bathroom to take a warm bubble-bath," Cyndi says. "I’ll first create a soothing environment by dimming the lights and lighting candles. Then, I’ll often take a few minutes to meditate on the toilet—this is an underrated spot of the bathroom."
A look at some of Cyndi’s favorite products from Build.com. Featuring trending and traditional products for every category, the trusted e-retailer also offers free project advice for any home renovation.
When designing a space that encourages rejuvenation—especially a small area like a bathroom—Cyndi recommends starting your project with Build.com. "You can find stylish, high-end pieces and trending products for every home improvement category—including lighting, plumbing, and hardware. The Build.com team also provides free, expert advice for any project, no matter the size or style of your space."
"Don’t let the size of your bathroom deter you from transforming the space into your own meditation sanctuary," Cyndi says. "Instead of focusing on what might be a lack of square footage, shift your attention to all the easy ways in which you can enhance the room. From layers of adjustable lighting and heated floors to a calm, neutral color palette, design the space to work for you and your needs."
Photo by: Nikolas Koenig
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ShopCyndi relies heavily on sufficient storage to help foster relaxation in her bathroom. "It’s important to learn what works aesthetically for you when it comes to organization," she says. "My beauty products are a big part of my lifestyle. So, I decided to put them on display." Thanks to clear shelving and other contemporary storage solutions, she stylishly keeps all of her most coveted wellness accessories close at hand. "My vanity is like my own department store...I’m very much into all the beauty tools."
Shop the Dwell + Build.com Product Selection
Signature Hardware Porcelain Wall Mounted Bathroom Sink
Signature Hardware Centerset Bathroom Faucet
Kohler Santa Rosa Elongated Toilet
Emser Tile Surface Rectangle Floor and Wall Tile
Baldwin Hollywood Hills Privacy Door Knobset
Robern Vitality Rectangular Mirror
Kilz Flapper Pink Interior Paint
Progress Lighting Rigsby Single Light 13" Tall Wall Sconce
Surya Pure Rectangle Bamboo Hand Loomed Solid Area Rug
Signature Hardware Adelaide Tempered Glass Shelf
Build.com is an online home improvement retailer where you can find trending and traditional products in every category, for every style. Serving as the go-to resource for home renovation, Build also offers a free Project Tool, which allows you to organize your favorite products, track orders, and collaborate with your hand-picked project team—all while being able to chat with Build’s project experts each step of the way.
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