6 bathroom trends that will lead the way in 2023

Bathroom design in 2023 will emphasize themes that have been emerging since 2020, focusing on clean lines, low-maintenance materials, and natural colors. Simultaneously, there's a shift in perspective, transforming bathrooms from purely functional spaces into areas designed for comfort and wellness. Jean-Jacques L’Henaff, a design expert with LIXIL Global Design, notes this evolution, highlighting how the bathroom has become a space centered on health, well-being, and relaxation. Broader home design trends are also influencing aesthetic choices, with personalization driving many design decisions as homeowners seek to create comfortable rooms with custom bathing experiences. AOne of the most prominent trends for 2023 is the rise of fabulous walk-in showers. This sentiment is echoed by Pinterest Predicts, the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA), and Houzz, all of which identify an increasing demand for shower upgrades. These upgrades include expanding shower sizes, with two-person showers being particularly favored, along with features like shower seats, multiple showerheads, and zero-entry showers for improved accessibility. Beyond functionality, designers like Michele Youell of Natural Domain Interiors highlight the importance of aesthetic elements such as natural light, accent lighting, high-end finishes, and visually striking wall tiles, often paired with glass enclosures. Conversely, there's a growing trend towards removing oversized built-in tubs. Homeowners are requesting the removal of large, unused tubs to reclaim space, which is then often repurposed for expanded showers or linen closets. Eliminating these tubs can also open up the floor plan, contributing to a less crowded and more serene bathroom environment. Spa inspiration continues to be a significant influence. The mindset is shifting from viewing bathrooms as purely utilitarian to considering them as spaces for relaxation and self-care. Lauren Schulte of Monarch Kitchen Design Studio emphasizes the bathroom's role in healing and relaxation, whether for physical recovery or general well-being. While showers are generally trending, personalization remains key, meaning some may opt for rainfall showers, others for soaking tubs, or even a combination. Steam showers, often with built-in seating, are gaining popularity for their relaxation benefits. Designers are also incorporating open shelves for rolled towels, akin to luxury spas, and using soft, inviting colors to create a Zen-like atmosphere. Natural and dimmable lighting, along with increased greenery, are further spa-inspired elements. Floor plan alterations, such as partitioning the toilet area for added privacy, also contribute to a spa-like experience. Wood vanities are making a strong comeback, challenging the long-standing dominance of painted finishes, particularly white. Both Houzz and the NKBA report wood vanities nearing or surpassing white in popularity. Cane and wood-pattern inserts are also appearing in vanity styles, reflecting the rising appeal of modern organic design and warm color palettes observed over the past two years. Sustainability and wellness are increasingly guiding design and decoration choices. Tanna Edler of TANNA BY DESIGN points to continued trends in energy-efficient lighting, floor heating, and eco-friendly paints and stains. Reports from Houzz and NKBA indicate that upgrades like automatic bath ventilation, electric radiant heat flooring, and tankless, energy-efficient water heaters will remain common. Homeowners are increasingly scrutinizing product labels, opting for VOC-free paints, FSC-certified cabinetry, LED lighting, and Energy Star and WaterSense-rated appliances and fixtures. This is driven by a desire for more sustainable use of water, electricity, and natural resources, as well as a growing awareness of how materials impact indoor air quality. Edler notes that homeowners value VOC-free finishes for their safety and minimal off-gassing, and will continue to request them. Finally, bathroom accents that pop are adding a touch of personality. While spa-worthy spaces often lean towards subdued aesthetics, Jake T. Galang of ILUSTRACION BY JAKE, CORP notes a post-pandemic desire for fun and bold patterns to introduce texture and color. Homeowners are incorporating geometric shapes, bold accessories on open shelves, and splashes of color. L’Henaff anticipates color and jewelry-inspired textures will accent the prevalent neutrals and darker shades. Schulte foresees increased interest in Indigenous and African-inspired patterns, such as mud cloth prints, applied through textiles, cabinet hardware, tile, lighting, or mirrors. Galang advises experimenting with new applications and materials to create bold and graphic accents. #BathroomTrends #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #WalkInShowers #SpaBathroom #SustainableDesign #NaturalMaterials #PersonalizedDesign #WellnessDesign

In 2026, bathrooms are poised to become a focal point of home design, moving away from their traditional role as a last-priority space. This shift is driven by a desire for more personality, warmth, and bespoke touches in personal sanctuaries. Interior designers anticipate a series of key trends that will redefine bathroom aesthetics, focusing on innovative uses of materials, strategic color integration, and personalized design elements. One significant trend is the resurgence of picture-frame tile molding. This architectural detail, which has seen a revival in other areas of the home, is making its way into bathrooms to create visual interest and definition. It offers a sophisticated way to frame vanity areas, highlight shower niches, or add a tailored look without the heaviness of traditional trim. This technique allows for a custom feel, using tile to create a structured and elegant appearance that elevates the overall design of the bathroom. Stained cabinetry is another prominent trend gaining traction. Designers note that stained finishes offer both enhanced durability compared to painted cabinets and an additional layer of warmth and texture. The natural tones and grain of stained wood contribute to a rich and timeless aesthetic, making the bathroom feel more inviting and luxurious. This moves away from purely functional cabinetry towards pieces that contribute significantly to the room's overall ambiance. Creative tile play is expected to be a major theme for 2026, with designers exploring diverse tile shapes, trims, and innovative layouts. This approach emphasizes achieving a custom look through subtle yet striking details. By manipulating the same material in various ways, such as creating playful stripes or framing a shower door with decorative trim, homeowners can achieve a personalized and polished finish without resorting to bold colors or risky clashing materials. This trend focuses on craftsmanship and unique patterns to add character. Wallpaper is also making a strong comeback in bathrooms, providing an excellent opportunity to infuse personality and pattern into the space. Its versatility allows for a wide range of styles, from dramatic designs in powder rooms to subtle textures in primary suites. Wallpaper can instantly transform a bathroom, adding depth, character, and a unique visual statement that reflects individual taste. The era of all-white bathrooms is gradually receding, giving way to bold statements characterized by color, texture, and pattern. While classic materials like Carrara marble and subway tile will retain their appeal, there's a growing demand for moody colors, dark woods, warm metals, and stones with dynamic movement. Clients are increasingly seeking to create cozy, intimate, and sophisticated spaces. An accessible entry point to this trend is through paint, with recommendations for deep, dramatic hues applied not only to walls but also to trim and ceilings to achieve instant impact. Finally, backsplashes are evolving beyond their standard four-inch height, extending much higher up the wall. This functional yet stylish trend offers enhanced protection against splashes and acts as a striking design element. When paired with bold tiles or stones, an elevated backsplash can significantly contribute to the bathroom's aesthetic appeal, drawing the eye upwards and adding a luxurious touch. These trends collectively indicate a future where bathrooms are designed with as much thought and flair as any other room in the house, focusing on personal expression and enduring style. #BathroomTrends #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #TileDesign #CabinetryTrends #Wallpaper #ColorTrends #BacksplashIdeas

As 2026 approaches, several prominent interior design trends are anticipated to significantly influence bathroom renovations, offering opportunities to integrate style and functionality. These emerging trends are key considerations for anyone planning to update their bathrooms, moving beyond purely utilitarian spaces to more personalized and aesthetically rich environments. The expert insights from interior designers Shamika Lynch, Mikel Welch, and Ayesha Usman highlight a shift towards more distinctive and sophisticated bathroom aesthetics. One significant trend is the adoption of vanities that resemble furniture rather than conventional built-in units. Designer Mikel Welch notes a growing preference for vanities with features like spindle legs, turned details, and heirloom-inspired profiles. This approach aims to infuse warmth and character into the bathroom, making it feel more like a curated, personal space. Brands are reportedly adapting to this demand by offering pieces that appear collected over time, contributing to a less clinical and more inviting atmosphere. Another major trend involves extending tile coverage to the ceiling, a concept dubbed “material drenching.” Shamika Lynch explains that this technique, by emphasizing verticality, can visually enlarge smaller bathrooms and create an impression of luxury with minimal effort. This design choice moves beyond traditional tiling limits, elevating the overall aesthetic and enhancing the perception of space within the bathroom. Color drenching is also expected to maintain its popularity, with a continued emphasis on bold and vivid hues. Mikel Welch predicts a departure from sterile white bathrooms towards immersive color schemes that encompass the entire room, from trim to ceiling. Preferred palettes include muted yet rich shades such as olive, clay, tea rose, and dusty blue, which offer a sense of calm while adding depth. Welch specifically recommends Benjamin Moore's "Apollo Blue" for its moody, European, and timeless qualities. Furthermore, there's a noticeable shift away from conventional white tiles towards more expressive and eclectic options. Ayesha Usman points to the rising popularity of hand-painted, Moroccan-inspired, and limestone tiles. These choices introduce artisanal warmth and varied textures, moving away from the starkness of marble and allowing for more personalized and artistic bathroom designs through bold patterns and layered materials. Mixed metal hardware is another trend gaining traction. While chrome is re-emerging, designers are increasingly incorporating a mix of metal finishes. Shamika Lynch highlights that contemporary stylings and clean lines are a common thread across different metallic tones. Ayesha Usman suggests combining brass, bronze, and gunmetal, often opting for unlacquered brass in her projects to achieve a natural patina and an aged, lived-in appearance. Freestanding tubs are also making a strong comeback, envisioned as standalone sculptural pieces rather than mere functional fixtures. Mikel Welch notes that homeowners are seeking ritual and restoration, positioning the bathtub as a central element for self-care. Deep soaking tubs are particularly favored for their ability to create an at-home spa experience, embodying quiet luxury. Finally, a strong inclination towards earthy colors and textures is anticipated. Usman indicates that browns, terracotta, and clay hues will largely replace stark whites and grays. Natural textures, such as Roman clay or lime wash on walls, and microcement for seamless finishes on various surfaces, are expected to dominate, contributing to a warm, organic, and sophisticated bathroom environment. #BathroomTrends #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #ColorDrenching #MaterialDrenching #FreestandingTubs #MixedMetals #EarthyTones #VanityDesign