The National Kitchen-Bath Association (NKBA) creates annual trends surveys. Here is a summary of the most recent one for bathrooms.
- Aging-in-place Amenities
More than 50% of NKBA members surveyed have included accessible or universal designs in their bathrooms: no-threshold showers, grab bars, higher vanity heights, and chair-height toilets. They also believe that the trend for aging-in-place features will continue to be popular. Note the barrier-less shower.
- Transitional Design
It’s becoming more popular than Contemporary Design, making up close to 80% of bathroom styles. Transitional Design can be defined as the combination of modern and traditional elements.
- Neutral Colors in Baths
As might be expected, white is the most popular color for fixtures, along with color schemes including whites and greys. 50% of NKBA survey respondents plan on offering grey bathroom designs, while 70% plan on specifying white or off-white. Beige and bone are the third most popular color scheme choice.
- Floating/Wall-mounted Vanities and Open Shelves
Floating vanities and open shelving will become more popular, with 40% of members saying that they will be specifying both in future designs.
- Hidden, Multi-function Storage
The trend is moving away from individual drawers to larger ones with roll-out areas for linens and toiletries. Also, hidden electrical outlets for charging stations and hairdryers.
- Undermount Sinks
By far, the most popular sink style, it is preferred for its uninterrupted lines and ease of cleaning. Trough sinks are trending.
- Freestanding Tubs, Tub/Shower Surrounds
Although 67% of NKBA respondents reported removing whirlpools and tubs from master baths, a similar percentage added freestanding tubs. 59% use standard surrounds in master baths while 67% use them in additional bedrooms. Photos courtesy of Yves Lefebvre photographe and Houzz.
- Greater Use of Shower Amenities
Amenities, such as lights, built-in seats and benches, and hand showers are being specified, in addition to the standard showerhead. A new trend, specified by 7% of respondents, is chromatherapy.
- Polished Chrome: The Most Popular Faucet Finish
80% of members who responded said that they will specify 35% more polished chrome this year. Satin Nickel and Brushed Nickel are second at 68%.
- Other Bathroom Amenities Expected to be Specified by 25%+ of NKBA Members
- Easy maintenance features
- Electric radiant floor heating
- Coffee bars, microwaves, and wet bars
- TV incorporated in bathroom mirror – Photo courtesy of Lightology
- Quiet or soft-close toilet seat
- Steam showers
It looks like these trends are designed to make bathrooms more luxurious and “spa-like”.
If you would like to discuss how these trends might fit into your home, let’s talk. Call 406-522-9001, or Contact Us.