Think the options for designing or renovating your bathroom are limited? Think again. Times have changed, and with so many designer bathroom vanity profiles on Pinterest and Instagram, expectations – as well as what can be done with them design-wise – have been raised.
From Scandinavian minimalism to farmhouse aesthetics, several trends have shaped interior design in the past decade. Design trends follow a similar cycle, with peak moments that slowly fade. However, the best design trends of 2020 will help you maximize your living space with practical updates. Let’s take a look.
Modern Bathroom Design Trends 2020
From nude tones to biophilic designs, there are plenty of fun elements to expect in 2020 that will add style and functionality while making your bathroom more interesting. The focus will be on creating a harmonious layout effortlessly.
1. European-Style Cabinetry
European-style cabinets are going to be a lot more popular this year thanks to their frameless, sleek design. Unlike conventionally-framed cabinets that have a face frame and a box, European-style cabinets are frameless, as they don’t have the face frame. Instead, doors and drawers are attached directly to the cabinet box. This style with its new hinges can completely transform your interiors. Of course, you can achieve the Euro-style look with framed cabinets as well; all you need is a full-overlay door to cover most, or all, of the face frame.
The best part is that this type of cabinetry doesn’t just work with a modern interior but with all types of settings.
2. Quartz
Quartz is going to gain in popularity this year and be used everywhere, not just in the bathroom. Its durability and reasonable pricing make it a top choice for countertops. And let’s not forget its nonporous nature which makes it more stain-resistant than marble.
3. Smaller, Bolder Spaces
Open concept rooms have run their course. It’s time for cozy, individual spaces to take over. Smaller rooms make the perfect space where you can do different activities without being disturbed. However, having a small bathroom doesn’t mean you shouldn’t pay attention to its décor.
Designing a small area can be trickier than you expect, but the results are worth the effort. There are many ways you can make a small bathroom appear more spacious. For instance, free up the floor space and pick smaller vanities and sinks. Adding shelving vertically above the toilet or sink can also provide storage space that will declutter your bathroom.
4. Standalone Tubs and Sinks
Standalone tubs and water basins can work wonders for your bathroom. These designs are inspired by natural asymmetrical shapes and artisanal vibes. The style is basic, yet subtle and refined; the shapes, imperfect but elegant. You can install these standalone tubs either by a wall, in a corner or even in the centre of your bathroom, depending on your space.
For wash basins, a natural and rough-looking material such as natural stone, marble and concrete is recommended. The matte look of natural stone with prominent veins creates a fine look for your bathroom.
5. Popular Colours
Colour is one of the most crucial elements of interior design. And every decade had a trending colour palette, such as pastels in the ‘80s and wallpaper in the ‘90s. Now, neutral earth tones are trending.
Of course, when you’re choosing colours for your home, you don’t want it to be so trendy that it becomes outdated in a few years. After all, not only do you have to live there, but it can badly impact your home’s resale value. In such a case, you need to keep updating your home constantly, which isn’t viable either. When renovating your bathroom, you need to understand what may stay popular in the future and not just today.
Let’s look at previous colour trends to give you a better idea.
- The 1980s: In this decade, subdued pastels, such as light pinks, greens and yellows, were the most popular colour choices for bathrooms. The ’80s is well known for popularizing neon colours and gaudy styling.
- The 1990s: The ‘90s saw people trying to cover up their pastels with patterned wallpapers that were beige, floral or subtle in other ways. Pastels were still relevant but faded into nudes, tans and beiges with an occasional pop of colour.
- The 2000s: This time period was more futuristic and modern. Homes were being designed in black & white tones while some gave a more country-like feel to their interiors with accent walls. Emphasis was on deep reds or burgundies, while dark browns made a perfect, dramatic impact in a natural colour scheme.
- The 2010s: In terms of colour schemes, whites and greys were the most popular choices in this decade. Accessories were minimalistic. This is when subway tiles began to get popular in bathrooms, as did gold accents.
- The Future: When it comes to bathrooms, it doesn’t always have to be bright and light. And you can be sure that black is going to regain its popularity. Black & white kitchens have been a popular and classic choice for some time. Now, matte black hardware and accents are a good way to give your interior a neutral look.
6. Coloured Tiles
White subway tiles give your bathroom a clean, timeless appearance, but colour ones can totally modernize the space. The new options available for coloured subway tiles offer a wide variety, from rich, deep tones to soft pastels.
7. Geometric Patterns
Speaking of tiles, unconventional shapes and geometric patterns will definitely give your bathroom a unique look. Geometric patterns have been trending for years, and you can find almost any shape now. However, it’s easy to go overboard with the designs so be careful. For your bathroom, choose geometric floor tiles or a geometric wallpaper with thin lines.
8. Lighting
In 2020, bathroom lighting is going to get more important. And it’s not just for style but also practicality. Minimalist and linear lighting is the way to go this year. In this way, your other bathroom elements can shine. A streamlined design process is going to be the essence of 2020.
9. Biophilic Designs
For nature lovers, this brings good news. Yes, biophilic designs are a trend! A fast and easy way to incorporate nature into your bathroom is to put in plants. You can even choose to have a wall full of greenery or pick tiles made of natural materials. Oddly-shaped sinks and standalone tubs also give the feel of nature, as they’re inspired by natural asymmetrical shapes. Following these steps can help you remodel your bathroom in such a way that it remains trendy yet timeless. This will allow you to understand how you want to approach the renovation. Plan well so nothing stands in the way of you designing your dream bathroom.