When it comes to home remodels, the bath remains a major focal point. In fact, the bathroom has become a highly personalized domain that reflects how a homeowner desires to relax, reflect, and unwind. The most admired bathroom designs today tend to be clean-lined, practical, and seamless. Transitional styles dominate and we’re seeing an infusion of more colorful and texturized surfacing and materials.
Today’s “perfect” bathroom is a matter of personal preference, however there are many elements that are trending when it comes to color, style, surfacing, and materials.
Color
Crisp, spa-like white dominates in the bath, and shades of gray are a close second. Beige and bone are next in line. But no matter what color scheme is used, monochromatic design is trending. The look is clean, simple, and elegant. But even these bathrooms tend to have colorful accents. Since the bathroom is such a personal space, it’s an area where folks tend to take some risks and make bold choices, especially when it comes to tile.
Textured Tile
While minimalism rules, we are seeing more patterns and colors incorporated. Playful combinations of materials and patterns help to add interest and texture and designers are making bold statements with fun patterns. Three-dimensional tiles are enjoying a moment right now with funky geometric and organic shapes adding a bit of drama. Classic hexagonal shapes are being incorporated in sizes from small mosaics to larger and bolder patterns. While it has a bold, geometric feel to it, the hexagon remains an organic shape that calls to mind snowflakes, minerals, and even animal skin patterns. It’s a great shape for catching the eye and bringing a sense of freshness into the bath this year. Herringbone patterns are also very popular now. Again, we’re seeing them in an array of sizes and everywhere from walls and showers to tub surrounds and floors. In fact, herringbone patterns offer a “new” way to feature classic subway tile. Everyone loves the simplicity of subway tile, but arranging it in a herringbone pattern gives it a bit of a modern “kick.” Basket weave and windmill patterns are other tile patterns that you might like to consider.
Oversized Tile
Also where tile is concerned, it’s time to think big! Mosaics and slender tiles are falling by the wayside as large, oversized tiles take over. Already popular in Europe, designers say this will be a key trend in 2017. Whether used for walls, floors, showers, or countertops, large tiles help create the Illusion of being seamless. Fewer grout lines mean a smoother look to the eye, plus it makes cleaning a lot easier.
Keep Toes Toasty
Radiant heating is another fast-growing trend for 2017. More homeowners are learning that it’s a “luxurious” element that can be added to the bath without necessarily breaking the bank. Both electric and hydronic systems are being installed, with the electric types both easier and less expensive to install. (Hydronic systems need a separate power source, such as a heat pump to run the water through the pipes.) Radiant heat works best with natural stone and tile since their thermal properties hold the heat better. Plus, these surfaces are easier to care for than wood in the damp bathroom.
It’s All About the Shower
According to the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA), homeowners are choosing showers over bathtubs. The giant jetted soaking tub has fallen by the wayside and we’re seeing more high-tech spa-like body sprays, water jets, and showerheads. For those who want to sit and relax in the shower, benches (both portable and built-in) are the answer, and they’re a lot more ergonomic than climbing in and out of the tub. Showers are far more aging-in-place friendly than tubs. The influence of accessibility can be further seen in the trend toward no-threshold showers. Plus, curbless showers are easier to clean and they help to visually expand the space.
For those homeowners who do want to keep a bathtub in the mix, we’re seeing a lot of tub/shower wetroom combos. A single glass-enclosed space for both bathing and showering has its advantages. First, kids (and grown ups) can splash all they want without having to worry about water damage or mess. It’s a great choice if you are short on space. It’s easier to clean. Plus, the design aesthetic can look really cool.
Floating Vanities
Floating, or wall-mounted vanities do wonders for a bathroom’s usability, plus the overall look is very modern and sleek. Floating vanities are a big part of the ease-of-use trend because their height can be customized. Raising the vanity off the ground helps a small bathroom appear larger. When the eye sees the flooring extended all the way to the wall, it instantly makes the room feel more spacious. Plus, it creates more usable space for storing things like a trashcan, a step stool, or a scale. It’s also easier to clean since it leaves nowhere for dust bunnies and dirt to hide. This type of vanity installation also puts your tilework on display. It lets you show off your wallcovering. When you float the vanity and extend the surfacing all the way down to the floor, it gives a very sleek and modern look. It also helps to break things up if you have a wood vanity and wood flooring. Wall-mounted vanities also help to enhance the “furniture” look bathroom cabinetry—a look that’s still very popular.
Go Natural
The bathroom is a sanctuary. And the elements found in nature tend to bring a sense of calm and peace. So, it stands to reason that natural elements such as wood and stone would prevail in the bath. We’re seeing an increase in these elements, but not just on the floors and walls. You’ll find sinks carved from river rock and vanities made of reclaimed wood. Natural stone feature walls help bring the outdoors in and these natural materials offer a wonderful contrast with the other manmade materials in the bathroom. Organic elements help to create visual and tactile texture and create a sense of warmth. Plus, since no two items are ever exactly the same, they create an exciting sense of uniqueness.
In general, luxury remains the name of the game in the bathroom. There is a continued focus on comfort and practicality, but sacrificing style is not an option. Luckily there are some amazing products out there that blend together all of today’s requirements for a top-notch bathroom. Look for more product information to come following the annual Kitchen & Bath Industry Show this month!