What’s Hot in Bathroom Remodeling—A Look at the Best Trends

It’s a truism in real estate that bathrooms and kitchens are the rooms that have the most impact on whether a house will sell. So naturally, kitchen and bathroom remodeling are popular with homeowners who want to sell sometime soon as well as those who just want to make their home more contemporary and functional.

Why are kitchens and bathrooms such a big deal? Those are definitely the rooms with the most going on, and where the house shows the most personality, so it makes sense that that’s where a potential buyer feels an intrigued “oooh!” or the dull thud of an “uck”. As far as actually living in a house goes, those are the rooms where the most action takes place. The appearance and function of other rooms largely depends on furniture and décor, not the features of the room itself, but a kitchen or bathroom remodel changes the space entirely.

Living in the Land of Luxury

What you’ll notice most if you take a tour of new homes is that the bathroom has become a home spa. Once this utilitarian, get-in-and-get-out little room was a purely functional necessity, but today’s bathrooms emulate a spa in atmosphere as well as features.

People today are very aware of the importance of true relaxation, and don’t always have the time or energy to go to an actual spa, so are looking to get the same benefits at home. At the same time, the bathroom still has to be very functional, since while an evening soak may be a time-consuming indulgence, getting the family ready for the day isn’t. Today’s bathrooms tend towards a high-end appearance, with a clean and uncluttered look, while providing efficient ways to meet users’ needs.

Here’s a look at some of the popular trends we are seeing in bathroom remodeling.

Bright White with Natural Elements

One look that has a very upscale effect is to go with a bright white for walls, fixtures and cabinets, with texture and color added from natural elements such as a wood floor or stone countertops and tiles.

Freestanding Soaking Tubs

To get the spa effect, today’s tub trends are towards long, deep tubs that allow for a relaxed soak. Jets are not as popular as they used to be, which is good news for anyone who had to deal with cleaning all the nooks and crannies in a garden tub with jets. Faucets and spigots are usually raised along the back side of the new tubs, so they don’t interfere with being able to lean back and relax, and a shower head with a hose can easily be incorporated so you can still get a shoulder massage or rinse your hair.

Most of these newer tub designs aren’t claw foot, though. The emphasis is on long, clean lines, so the tub is one unit from floor to rim, and may be rectangular, oval or any set of angles in between. Acrylic is a popular material for soaking tubs because it is tough and moldable, but also retains heat, so you can enjoy your soak longer without having to drain and add hot water.

Sleek or Sculpted Cabinetry

As far as cabinetry goes, there are two main trends, which seem almost opposite. Sleek cabinets without spaces between the doors create a smooth surface that has a very modern look. Hardware is minimal or absent with this style, to add to the clean straight line of the surface.

The other cabinet style that is trending this year is raised panel cabinets, which means the surface of the door is carved, and the center panel extends out from the profile. This is a much more traditional look, and has a softer, more textured effect.

Metallics as Design Elements

Metal basins are very versatile and can create a rustic or modern look, depending on their form. A bowl-shaped basin sits higher than the counter and turns the sink into a design element. Copper and brass tones add warmth, but brushed nickel is another popular look for those who prefer the cool effect of silver.

Wall Tiles that Make a Statement

Tile is stylish now, and there is an amazing array of tile designs available. Subway tiles are very popular. These are based on the tiles that were manufactured for the New York Subways, and are durable and water-resistant. Traditionally, they are three inches by six inches and white, but additional colors and sizes are available now.

In addition to basic, solid-colored tiles, you also have elaborately designed tiles with floral or geometric patterns to choose from. Just as kitchen remodels have incorporated striking backsplash designs, bathroom remodeling now often incorporates decorative tiles on the walls, either as a backsplash or the entire wall.

Universal Design

With an increasing awareness of ways to meet the needs of all members of a household, and the popularity of aging in place here in Peoria and the Phoenix area, universal design has really taken hold. The beauty of it is that our certified professionals can work with any style, so that you get the aesthetic you want, with the functionality that you need. The latest developments in universal design mean that you can have a beautiful home that accommodates your needs safely, allowing you to remain living independently well into later life.

We have been in the home remodeling business in Peoria, serving the entire Phoenix area for over 20 years, so we have seen trends come and go and know what will last, and what homeowners will regret. If you would like to know what’s trending now, and what the best bathroom remodeling includes, give us a call at 623-544-1211. Our certified design professionals would be happy to discuss your remodeling plans with you.