Jennifer Aniston's backyard features an unusual addition that designers say 'everyone wants' in 2024
Showering outdoors is taking on a whole new level of importance
![Jennifer Aniston](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/V3NFjFGheTA2axZKZLQjze-415-80.jpg)
Are you familiar with the concept of shinrin-yoku? Otherwise known as forest bathing, it’s a practice that sees you immerse yourself in nature as a form of meditation. Forest bathing may have entered our lexicon in the 1980s, but more recently this garden trend has since become mainstream in how we design our gardens.
Originating from Japan, the philosophy’s effect on both your health and mental well-being has been the subject of studies that confirm what we really already know. But beyond its image as an aspirational lifestyle, there’s some real weight behind the benefits it could offer you.
Jennifer Aniston's garden, designed by Stephen Shadley, an LA-raised former scenic artist, and now New York interior designer is a true Japanese garden masterpiece. Shadley has crafted the homes for many Hollywood notables, including Diane Keaton and Ryan Murphy. Immaculate, serene, and perfectly poised, Aniston's abode is considered to be one of the world's best homes – and the outdoor shower is the hero piece in her spectacular Californian garden.
Creating spaces where you can put yourself in nature’s way is the key to embracing this new trend.
A post shared by Stephen Shadley (@stephenshadley)
A photo posted by on
Refreshing, invigorating, and certainly soul-stirring, an outside shower goes way beyond being a practical addition to the garden. Tucked away in a private corner, or placed ready for a splash on a sun deck, washing this way sums up summertime.
Gardens have always been linked to well-being, but we can enhance the feel-good effect of being in nature by adding spa elements to our outdoor space. They are relatively simple to install, and worth the investment for the wellness vibes they bring.
If you have the space, it may be possible to extend your bathroom outside. ‘It is more practical than you might imagine and everyone wants one this year,’ advises Emma Joyce, head of product marketing at House of Rohl.
Sign up to the Homes & Gardens newsletter
Design expertise in your inbox – from inspiring decorating ideas and beautiful celebrity homes to practical gardening advice and shopping round-ups.
'You’ll want a private spot that is not overlooked by your neighbors, so pick a location where you can plant trees, install a screen, or build a more permanent enclosure. If you have a pool or hot tub, positioning your shower near this area will make access easier.'
It should be straightforward to pick up the water supply from the inside bathroom, and plan carefully to ensure pipework can be concealed. Ideally, choose a flooring material that can be used in both the interior and exterior spaces for the most seamless look.
When it comes to choosing plants, look to naturally minimalist styles, like Japanese gardens, for inspiration, and consider not only the planting but the materials too. ‘It’s crucial to ensure the materials are cohesive and limited to a maximum of three different ones, for example, timber, gravel, and stone,’ says landscape designer Alexandra Noble. ‘I find limiting the material palette ensures the design evokes calm and the garden doesn’t look overly busy.’
Shop the look
There’s a purposefulness to forest bathing then, that causes pause for thought. If there’s value in dedicating time to this connection to nature, shouldn’t the design of our outdoor spaces reflect that?
Jennifer is the Digital Editor at Homes & Gardens. Having worked in the interiors industry for a number of years, spanning many publications, she now hones her digital prowess on the 'best interiors website' in the world. Multi-skilled, Jennifer has worked in PR and marketing, and the occasional dabble in the social media, commercial and e-commerce space. Over the years, she has written about every area of the home, from compiling design houses from some of the best interior designers in the world to sourcing celebrity homes, reviewing appliances and even the odd news story or two.
-
Drought-tolerant climbing vines – 7 sun loving trailing species for hot spots
A lack of rainfall won't stop these climbing beauties from thriving
By Jacky Parker Published
-
10 ways to clean and maintain wooden house number signs, and always keep your exterior looking sharp
Expert home builders and exterior renovators share their tips
By Punteha van Terheyden Published
-
Jennifer Aniston's 'rain chain' is the most desirable way to water your plants – it's easy to recreate her Japanese-inspired technique
A rain chain is an innovative irrigation and plant watering solution that adds both function and style to the actress's Hal Levitt home
By Sophie Edwards Published
-
Jennifer Aniston's Japanese garden pond is one of the most beneficial elements a yard can have – it is so easy to replicate
No matter how big or small, adding a pond to your garden will prove invaluable for wildlife
By Jennifer Ebert Published
-
Jennifer Aniston and Mark Ruffalo have this 'invisible' anti-kitchen cabinet style in common – and experts say it will never be outdated
Sleek 'invisible' kitchens are garnering tremendous praise from interior experts and celebrities alike – here's why they've caught my attention
By Jennifer Ebert Published
-
Jennifer Aniston's nature-inspired family room champions a calming material – experts swear by its warm, inviting effects
The actress's family room makes a classic, natural material shine in diverse tones, textures and shapes creating a cozy, welcoming room
By Sophie Edwards Published
-
Jennifer Aniston's former living room features an unexpected pop of color – the results are highly impactful
Jennifer Aniston's old home includes a sophisticated living space, which includes a wood piano, beige carpeting, and some colorful, bold artwork
By Hannah Ziegler Published
-
Jennifer Aniston's 'quiet luxury' bedroom proves this timeless trend is here to stay for 2025 and beyond
Designed to transcend modern trends, Jennifer Aniston's bedroom is a tranquil haven of peace, tranquility and sophistication
By Jennifer Ebert Published
-
Jennifer Aniston's modern family room embraces the 'old Hollywood glamor' trend – experts say it is back for 2024
If you want a luxurious lounge, try taking inspiration from a bygone era with its emphasis on sophistication and elegance
By Jennifer Ebert Published
-
Jennifer Aniston's living room corner features the 'forever furniture trend' designers can't get over
Curved lines are an important consideration in interior design to make a cozy corner well-balanced and visually pleasing
By Jennifer Ebert Published