If you’re planning to renovate your bathroom, then you might be in search of inspiration. It’s worth taking a look at interior design trends from the past year, and seeing whether any of them appeal to your sense of style.
Let’s run through a few of the more eye-catching bathroom trends.
Sustainable Designs
Sustainability is a term that’s gained traction in the world of bathroom design, just as it’s gained traction everywhere else. In this part of the home, there are a number of opportunities to save money, and the natural world, at the same time.
You might replace inefficient fixtures with modern water-saving ones. Low-flow showerheads, and low-capacity cisterns, might both make a difference. The same might be said of efficient lighting solutions powered by LEDs.
In addition to these fixtures, many homeowners are turning to renewable or recycled materials.
For example, eco-friendly countertops made from recycled glass or sustainably sourced wood are becoming more popular.
These materials not only reduce the environmental impact of your bathroom renovation but also create a unique, stylish look.
Freestanding Tubs as a Focal Point
Freestanding tubs tend to work best in larger bathrooms, where there’s room to accommodate them on all sides. In 2024, they’ve made something of a comeback, since they tend to speak of wealth and luxury.
You might find them in a variety of styles, ranging from traditional ‘clawfoot’ designs, which have been around for centuries, to more contemporary featureless models. To truly appreciate the range of freestanding tubs available, pay a visit to a bathroom showroom and inspect the different styles and materials up close.
Additionally, a freestanding tub can be paired with a striking floor-mounted faucet, creating a sophisticated look that makes the bathtub the undeniable focal point of the room.
Bold, Statement Tiles
The safe option when it comes to tiling is to go for simple designs, perhaps emulating natural stone using porcelain. However, many of the more eye-catching bathroom designs of the past year have dared to go a step further, with intricate patterns, brash colour schemes, unusual textured finishes, and mosaic patterns.
The arrangement of the tiles might make a difference, too. Even if you’re set on a traditional rectangular tile, you might make things more interesting by picking out several different colours, and arranging everything in a herringbone pattern.
Large-format tiles are another trend gaining ground in 2024. These oversized tiles, which can be used on walls or floors, minimise grout lines and create a more seamless, elegant appearance. Some homeowners are even opting for floor-to-ceiling tile installations, which can visually expand the space and give the bathroom a more dramatic, polished feel.
Smart Bathroom Technology
Of course, the world of smart technology has advanced considerably over the last year. Some homeowners have introduced voice-activated systems into their bathrooms. Automatic taps might make it easier (and more hygienic) to wash your hands, without fear of spreading germs to the body of the tap itself.
Smart bathroom mirrors might even provide you with the time and local weather, in much the same way as a smartphone does. Invest in one, and you needn’t take your phone into the bathroom again!
In addition to mirrors, smart showers have become increasingly popular. These showers can be pre-programmed to your preferred temperature and water flow, and some even come with built-in speakers so you can enjoy music whilst you wash.
Natural and Calming Aesthetics
A bathroom should ideally be a place where you can feel relaxed and at peace. It’s for this reason that soothing colour palettes based around soft whites and blues have been traditional. Recently, biophilic design has helped to make bathrooms even more tranquil. Natural elements, like stone tiles, timber, and houseplants have all helped to make bathroom spaces feel more peaceful.
The use of natural light is also being prioritised in 2024 bathroom designs. Skylights or larger windows can brighten up the space while connecting it to the outdoors, making the room feel more expansive and calming. If natural light isn’t an option, strategically placed ambient lighting can mimic the effect and enhance the overall relaxing atmosphere of the space.
