Trends in Bathroom Design

The biggest trend in bathroom design, and one that encompasses various other trends, is the home spa. Bathrooms are no longer stark places used only for basic use. They can be luxurious sanctuaries, botanical gardens or modern marvels. They are, in essence, whatever you want them to be. There are number of trends that make up the home spa, ranging from bathroom size, fixtures, furniture, materials and more.

Bathrooms are getting bigger. They have to in order to accommodate all of the new fixtures and furnishings that are making their way into bathroom design. People are taking out walls and raising ceilings to be able to try out the new features on the market.

Bathroom fixtures no longer just mean a bathtub and shower and a vanity sink. More and more homeowners are choosing to separate their tub and shower. This allows them to try out the best of both worlds. Whirlpool tubs are making the biggest splash among tub buyers. With their massage jets, ergonomical design and wide array of colours, shapes and sizes, there is surely a whirlpool tub for every bathroom. Separate showers are also opening up the market to all kinds of innovative ideas. Luxury is not just about the bath anymore. Massage showers and steam showers are all the rave.

Let's not forget about sinks. Sink installations have become genuine works of art. The latest trend is above counter basins. These basins are often made by true artisans. They become the focal point of the room and not just a place to wash our hands.

Believe it or not, recliners and chaise lounges are making their way into bathrooms everywhere. Now that bathrooms are larger, they can accommodate more pieces of furniture. What's more, bathrooms are no longer just for bathing, but for relaxing and escaping as well. That's why televisions, stereos, DVD players and chairs are all becoming permanent installations.

Radiant heating has been around a long time. However, only recently has it become a popular and practical way of heating the bathroom. Radiant heating is similar to an electric blanket beneath your bathroom tiles. It makes the transition from bathroom to spa room complete. No more cold feet when you step out of a hot bath. The same goes for early mornings. Most radiant heating systems come with a timer that allows you to start and end your day with warm feet.

Bathroom materials are mixing and matching, creating new combinations that modernize or tranquilize depending on your goal. Nature-inspired materials are highly sought. Combining wood with stone is a wonderful way to bring the peacefulness of the woods into your home. Glass and chrome seem to be the latest bathroom trends. Glass tiles and chromes fixtures create a unique and elegant combination. Materials as different as stainless steel and stone are becoming winning combinations. The stainless steel gives a modern feel, while the stone softens the look.

Bathroom trends are numerous and changing. Be on the lookout for the latest fixtures and materials, and you too will be able to turn your bathroom into a sanctuary.