Top Ten Bathroom Trends

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.