Whether you’re looking for inspiration for your upcoming home build or remodel or you just like to stay on top of the latest looks, here are 10 of the biggest trends in bathroom design for 2019.
1. Floating Vanities and Toilets
Because they don’t go all the way to the floor, floating vanities and toilets instantly make a small bathroom appear larger by providing the illusion of additional floor space. They tend to come in mostly sleek, modern styles, although that’s changing, as evidenced by the floating vanity made of Shaker-style wood cabinetry below. And unlike traditional vanities and toilets, most are height adjustable.
2. Vertical Tiles
Also perfect for tight spaces, the vertical tile trend is as much about how the tiles are placed as the style. Laying tile vertically on a wall makes the bathroom seem expansive and taller. Long, slim styles (think subway tile flipped 90 degrees, or diamond shapes) are perfect for drawing the eye up, such as in a shower with a showstopper skylight window.
3. Black is the New White
The all-white spa look of recent years has given way to its sultry, sexy counterpart. Black tiles in matte or textured styles are especially in right now, as are black fixtures and vanities.
4. Art or Wallpaper
Who says you can’t show off your love of art in the bathroom? Whether it’s an original piece framed behind glass for protection from humidity to artful wallpaper, creativity can be appreciated from the loo, too.
5. Smart Everything
From motion-detecting faucets to toilets that open and close on their own, clean themselves and are height-adjustable — today’s bathrooms are more high-tech than ever. Kohler has an entire line dedicated to “Intelligent Toilets and Cleansing Seats.” Their recently released Numi 2.0 Intelligent Toilet even uses voice commands to cue music and adjust lighting, so you can set the mood. Automatic temp regulators and mirrors with built-in LED lighting are also growing in popularity.
6. Open Floor Plans
In those homes with the square footage to spare, bathrooms are finally receiving the open concept treatment that kitchens and living rooms have been getting for years. Today’s bathrooms are beginning to blend seamlessly with adjacent bedrooms, closets and dressing areas, relying on privacy barriers made of opaque glass or other materials when needed.
7. Concrete Everywhere
Concrete used to scream industrial, but not anymore, which is perhaps why we’re seeing it not just in tiles and countertops but on walls, floors and sinks, too. When sealed, it’s as durable as marble but a whole lot less expensive. It’s also easy to find and install, and today’s color choices are endless. Concrete lends a neutral, minimalist vibe that makes it a good match for a myriad of styles. If you’re worried about it appearing cold or too industrial, pair it with warm wood cabinetry.
8. Patterned Tiles
Some think this trend is about to near its peak, but for the moment, patterned tiles, whether on the floor or walls, align perfectly with the modern farmhouse look that’s still dominating. Tiles with graphic patterns and made of concrete, such as these from clé, are especially enjoying a moment right now.
9. Exposed Plumbing
This inside-out trend used to lean industrial, but because pipes come in so many styles and colors these days, your bathroom plumbing can easily be customized to fit any design aesthetic. The exposed pipe look extends to shower systems, vanities and freestanding bathtubs. Of course, you have to have the space for this look and in some cases, such as with under-sink areas, you have to give up precious storage space to make it work, but when done right, exposed pipes shine like works of art.
10. Seamless, Doorless Showers
Nothing says tropical resort like a doorless shower, especially when it’s paired with a rain-like showerhead. This trend is best for custom builds as it can affect the way the floor is leveled, but depending on the size of your shower, you may be able to get away with just a pony wall (half wall) and glass if you’re looking to do a small remodel and you love the look.
Ana Connery is former content director of Parenting, Babytalk, Pregnancy Planner and Conceive magazines as well as parenting.com.
While editor in chief of Florida Travel & Life magazine from 2006-2009, she covered the state’s real estate and home design market as well as travel destinations.
She’s held senior editorial positions at some of the country’s most celebrated magazines, including Latina, Fitness and Cooking Light, where she oversaw the brand’s “FitHouse” show home.
Ana’s expertise is frequently sought after for appearances on “The Today Show,” “Good Morning America” and CNN. She has interviewed the country’s top experts in a variety of fields, including U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan and First Lady Michelle Obama.
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