Top Bathroom Trends

Last month I discussed kitchen trends found at the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS). In this article, I’ll share bathroom trends and new innovations I marveled at during the show.

Large scale, geometric and other patterned tiles are trending. Lower right: One of my favorites tiles at KBIS, laser cut into a large scale pattern of metal, wood and marble.

Our bathrooms are often the first and the last rooms we see before heading out or retiring. They should be special. So many new technologies have been introduced to enhance bathrooms: lighted mirrors with TV’s, mobile connectivity to play your music while you brush your teeth, commodes that multi-task and storage systems that make organizing easier. It seems there is a whole new world of advancements just this year! Technology is growing fast and the design world is integrating it in a big way.

Toto makes a wall mounted toilet which flushes on its own, cleans itself and takes up 9″ less space than a regular commode. A new Moen shower can connect to mobile devices so you can turn the shower on and off from anywhere in your home. Technology is now a bigger part of the bathroom, but aesthetics are still what makes the space yours.

Freestanding tubs of all shapes, sizes and colors – from traditional claw foot tubs to modern round, tea cup tubs within a shower enclosure – are trending. Floating vanities with vessel sinks in any shape, size, or color are in. Beautiful, unique sinks are available in a variety of finishes including metal – truly jewelry for any powder room.

It is in vogue to combine tile materials including stone, metal, and even wood. The large pattern trend is also being seen in wallpaper and tile. One of my favorites at KBIS was tile laser cut into a large scale pattern of metal, wood and marble.  Large three-dimensional monochromatic patterns are also popular. Gold and matte gold are the finishes of choice, part of the Hollywood Regency style trending in the furniture world. The mid-century modern look is showing up, as well as the industrial urban style. A white bathroom is always in vogue. Make it classic with subway tiles or Carrera marble, or modern with bold texture and monochromatic patterns.

Thinking about renovating? Consider new technologies for added conveniences or updating fixtures now available in any style or color to make your bathroom uniquely you. Be a little daring, you can create a real gem!

Stay tuned for next month’s article where I will discuss furniture trends.