These days we're talking about wellness clubs and luxury spa retreats – places to detox, relax and pretend the city doesn't exist for a weekend. But designer Jake Arnold asks a different question: Why shouldn't this feeling of serenity become part of everyday life?
His latest collaboration with Kohler, Come home to natureHe takes this question seriously and offers a more sustainable form of rest. The collection combines neutral tones and natural materials into fixtures that transform ordinary bathroom ideas—and the rituals that take place within them—into sanctuaries that can rival the filling of a five-figure vacation.
(Image credit: Kohler)
“For me, wellness at home is about creating spaces that evoke a deep sense of comfort, calm and emotional grounding,” explains Jake. “It’s in the light that filters through a space, the tactile materials you interact with every day, and the way each space supports your rituals.” “A well-designed home should relax and invigorate you.”
While “spa design” often seems sterile, Jake’s version of a spa bathroom is structured and grounded. The collection's highlight, the hand-glazed, shallow Kohler's Derring Carillon sink, for example, resembles pottery more than plumbing.
(Image credit: Kohler)
'In the Western bathroom“I wanted to play with contrast through tone and texture,” says Jake. “The Kohler finishes we chose, like the deep matte tones and brushed metals, were all about creating a layered, tactile experience. It's about how each element works together: the texture of the tile contrasting with the smoothness of the fixtures, the warmth of the metal contrasting with the cooler tones of the stone. “These curated choices create a living space that feels sophisticated yet accessible.”
LA, where Jake now lives, clearly reflects this instinct for balance – between structure and softness, ritual and repetition. “Living in LA, you are surrounded by a lifestyle that emphasizes indoor-outdoor flow, natural materials and a slower pace of life,” he says. “All of that shaped the way I approach a project.” “I think about how light moves through a space, how materials and surfaces can create either space or intimacy, and ultimately how to cultivate a sense of calm and balance.”
(Image credit: Kohler)
We tend to think of relaxing at home as something you add on—incense, candles, a blanket—but Jake's luxe bathroom design works from the inside out. “These elements not only add visual depth, but also connect you with nature, which is key to emotional well-being,” he says. “It’s about creating a sensory experience: how something feels, how light reflects off a surface, how color can change your mood.” This is where design can support well-being on a deeper level.”
Ahead, six pieces of Come home to nature that bring the same beauty of the wellness world – and perhaps a little less noise – into your everyday activities.
Shop the collection
Kohler
Purist® wall-mounted basin mixer
This aptly named “Purist” faucet is a sophisticated, no-fuss wall-mount faucet with a 35-degree angled spout and cross handles for effortless operation. Its lines are sharp and contemporary, yet the brushed bronze finish gives it a feeling of permanence, as if it has always belonged there.
Kohler
Derring® Carillon® bathroom sink
A sink worth spending time at, in the guest bathroom or in your own. This hand-carved and low design of a wading pool proves that texture can make an impact without disturbing the tranquility. The Bluestone Rutile glaze imparts an almost heavenly quality and transforms everyday moments (brushing teeth, washing hands) into something special.
Kohler
Purist® towel holder
We are often told to “be our own butler” and anticipate needs before they arise. This minimalist, perfectly proportioned round bar stand does just that, keeping your fluffiest towels close at hand as soon as you step out of the bath.
Kohler
Artifacts™ Freestanding Bathtub
This vintage-style freestanding bathtub is curved just enough to hug the neck and features a sunken center for easy entry and exit. The Dune finish creates a sun-drenched look that makes moments seem slower.
Kohler
Artifacts™ ball and claw feet
The feet are not included with the tub, but Jake has put together a range of softly saturated color schemes to ground it and give you the opportunity to customize your version of calm. This teal tone is a nod to nature and provides a cool counterpoint to the milky Dune cymbal it supports.
Kohler
Purist® three-function shower head
Choose your indulgence – full coverage, pulsating massage or a fine silk spray – with this warm shower head that uses 30% less water and aerates every drop to create a powerful, velvety spray that hugs the body.
Of course, purchasing this collaboration isn't a requirement for a grounded space or wellness-focused bathroom trend. “Focus on creating a mood rather than just checking boxes for functionality,” says Jake. “Think about how you want to feel in this space, then add the elements that support that – dimmable lighting, soft textures underfoot, or natural materials that will age beautifully over time without losing functionality.”
The final part – materials that evolve with You – is the key. Brass, for example, which acquires a patina when touched; stone that deepens its tone; Surfaces that age inside rather than outside a room.
Don't underestimate how grounding tones can change the energy of a room – including your own. “It's about creating a space that invites you to slow down and think of it as a refuge and not just a purpose,” notes Jake.