Remodeling trends in bathroom design

Simplicity and comfort-based amenities are driving master bath design.

Studies show that people are living in their homes longer; and as such, they seem to be more interested in making their hoe a haven of beauty and simplicity. The master bath has become a living space where people spend a lot more time. They consider it a retreat and they want it to resemble a spa. When people come home from work, they can't wait to get into their bathrooms.
But while escape is a key theme in the master bath, many consumers are foregoing the "just for show" bells and whistles and increasingly looking for a bath that is simple, uncluttered and restful, with functional and comfort-based amenities as the "new luxury". This trend seems to hold true regardless of the bath's size.

Larger, Amenity-Laden Showers-
A few years ago, sculptural tubs were replacing the whirlpools of years early yet. But now so many clients don't want any tub at all. They don't have the time [or a long bath] and they're watching water and energy usage. When space is limited, the trend to take out the tub is happening and the shower is being enlarged.

Other trends include larger master bathrooms, with space being stolen form adjacent bedrooms, closets or even portions of hallways. Along with larger rooms, many homeowners are also requesting larger showers, oftentimes at the expense of the tub. Taking down walls and opening it up with glass gives the illusion that the space is even bigger.

Homeowners also are asking for luxuries with their shower systems. Double showers and multiple shower heads are a huge trend. Body sprays and steam showers are also on the rise. Many times benches are being incorporated in the shower, fulfilling aging in place needs as well as comfort.

Specialized Storage-
Homeowners are thinking and creating a spot for everything in their bathrooms- from hair care stations, complete with electrified drawers with safety switches for hair dryers, flat irons, etc, to medicine cabinets with outlets for toothbrushes and electric shavers. Linen towers, cubbies for towels and cosmetic drawers are also popular when space allows. The trend is toward keeping products off the counter and stored.


Large, Open Showers-
Doorless and curbless showers are becoming more popular, especially with Baby Boomers who want to age in place. Walk-in showers, those without a door, are very attractive from both cleaning and maintenance perspectives. It's easier to take care of and one less wall to squeegee and one less door to fix.

Floating Cabinets-
They visually open rooms up giving  the impression of more space and work well in contemporary or modern styles. European designs are also having a big influence on cabinetry, and cabinetry without handles are also making a comeback, keeping in line with clean and simple design.


Porcelain Tile-
There are some wonderful porcelain tile out there now that look like wood and stone, but have no maintenance. This also helps ease the cost of installation. Vertical installation of tiles versus the horizontal is much in demand and although bold colors are out, rich textures with neutral tones are very much in. Subtle and more muted in luxury, mosaics and stone mixed with large format tiles in cool, clear colors especially whites and grays over the neutral look that many homeowners are looking for. Color is typically added later with soft goods accessories such as towels.