If there's one room where storage always seems to feel scarce, it's the bathroom. Built-in cabinetry is often limited, leaving you with little space to keep all of your products and essentials close to hand. You need to get smart with your bathroom storage ideas if you want a space that functions and looks good. And no place offers more solutions at affordable prices than IKEA.

From vanities with deep drawer storage to space-saving carts on castors and wooden baskets to keep essentials organized, IKEA has everything you need to maximize your bathroom storage and keep it organized.

And it's not just spacious schemes that are catered for, but small bathrooms, too. Whether you need to rethink your entire storage plan or simply need a few instant additions to make life easier, these are the IKEA bathroom storage buys worth adding to your space.

We already know IKEA is one of the best places to buy a bathroom vanity, but it's worth keeping in mind for all of your bathroom storage needs. From sturdy storage boxes to keep cabinets and shelves tidy to shower caddies and shelves that keep your wash space tidy, these buys are exactly what your scheme is missing.

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Bathrooms are returning to schemes that embrace tranquility and luxury this year, with a true emphasis on creating spaces that not only prioritize wellness but also feel timeless. And the new Kohler x Studio McGee collaboration makes creating such a space easier than ever.

Just launched, the Kohler x Studio McGee Claude Bathroom Collection has everything you need to create a bathroom that embraces classic style with pared-back restraint, instantly creating a sense of calm.

The collection feels quietly luxurious, offering a high-end look without any fussy embellishments. Think chic washstands, elegant pedestal sinks, and even a freestanding tub, alongside smaller accessories that effortlessly complete a bathroom. Honestly? It's a collection worth knowing if you're planning a refresh this year.

This isn't Studio McGee's first collaboration with Kohler – in fact, the Claude Collection follows six successful launches across kitchens and bathrooms.

But while they have all focused on specific elements of the room, such as the Castia^™ Bathroom Faucet Collection and the Audrine^™ Kitchen Sink Collection, the latest endeavor offers all the essential furniture you need to design a bathroom.

You can furnish your entire bathroom with this collection. Choose between a traditional washstand sink with either brass or silver fixings, an elegant pedestal sink, or a sleek undermount sink to upgrade a vanity.

There are five different toilet designs to choose from, depending on the size and style of your bathroom, and one holy grail bathtub that effortlessly blends into schemes that lean traditional and modern in style. It might just be the hardest-working collection to date.

'Partnering with Kohler allows thoughtful design and advanced performance to come together in a way that feels natural and elevated,' says Shea McGee, Founder of Studio McGee, in the press release.

'With Claude, we created an entire cohesive bathroom collection that feels grounded and enduring, with pieces that draw you in. We designed products that are intentional and innovative while leaning into architectural detail and classic proportions to deliver comfort and functionality expected in a modern home.'

This collection is about more than simply accessorizing your bathroom – it's about introducing core pieces that balance classic style with unrivalled functionality. Each piece is inspired by Kohler's archives, reintroducing key furniture, from toilets to bathtubs, taking pieces that are usually seen as basic essentials and making them feel more refined and elevated.

'Working with Shea allowed us to push the boundaries of what bathroom design can be. She brought a fresh perspective to Kohler’s rich design heritage, helping us translate our archives into something distinctly modern, but classic,' said Margaret Mazz, Kohler Studio Manager.

'Claude demonstrates that advanced performance – especially in a smart toilet – doesn’t have to look technical. It can be beautifully designed, intuitive to use, and grounded in timeless form.'

Shop the Collection

Whether you're planning a simple bathroom refresh or a full renovation, there's something in this collection for every space. It reinforces the idea of a design centered around wellness, rather than following fleeting bathroom trends.

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There are so many guidelines to help you get a bathroom right, from layout rules to paint color guides. But a mirror can often feel like one of the trickiest details to choose, especially with so many different sizes, shapes, and features to choose from.

But knowing the style and design that are right for your bathroom is key to finding the best places to buy bathroom mirrors, so it's worth spending some time to ensure you make the right choice the first time.

From size and scale to shapes, styles, and placements, this comprehensive guide has all the tips, guidance, and advice you need to choose a bathroom mirror that suits your space, style, budget, and needs.

Choosing the Right Size, Scale, Proportions

In many ways, choosing the right size and scale for a bathroom mirror works similarly to a mirror above your fireplace. It's all about proportion, so the mirror needs to be scaled based on the width of your bathroom vanity.

'Your bathroom mirror should always be smaller in width than the vanity below it. There’s no hard and fast rule for exactly how wide your bathroom mirror must be, but I prefer a mirror that’s about three-quarters the width of the vanity,' says interior designer Kathy Kuo, noting that 'most bathroom mirrors fall between 24 and 48 inches wide.'

While no set size works for every space, designers usually fall back on the same calculation. 'To choose the right bathroom mirror size, make sure the mirror is slightly narrower than the vanity, usually about 70–90% of its width and proportionate to the wall space above the sink,' agrees interior designer Juliette Byrne.

In terms of the mirror height, it's all about what works for the person using it. 'Leave a few inches between the mirror and the vanity edges, hang it high enough for comfortable use, and consider the bathroom’s size, lighting, and style when choosing the shape and frame,' she adds.

You also need to consider the other elements in the bathroom to ensure your mirror feels proportionate. 'When selecting a mirror, one of the most important considerations is scale, not simply in relation to the vanity, but in relation to the negative space surrounding it,' adds interior designer Kimberly Oxford.

'Allowing intentional breathing room between mirrors, lighting, tile transitions, and millwork creates a quieter visual rhythm and allows each material within the room to fully develop. Often, it is the restraint in spacing and proportion, rather than the fixtures themselves, that determines whether a bathroom feels calm and architecturally resolved.'

Choosing the Right Shape and Style

Once you've got the size and scale figured out, you can start thinking about the style and shape of the bathroom mirror that feels right for your space. And there are a few ways to decide which will work best.

'Let the architecture of the room and the style of your vanity guide you when choosing a mirror’s shape. It’s one of the easiest ways to either reinforce or contrast the design language of your space, and there’s no wrong answer,' Kathy suggests.

Kimberly agrees, adding: 'In spaces where strong geometric lines already exist through tile layouts, slab applications, or millwork, repeating those forms within the mirror itself can create continuity and structure. In other instances, introducing subtle curves can soften harder surrounding materials and bring balance to the overall composition.'

Round Bathroom Mirrors

Round mirrors have really grown in popularity in recent years, in rooms beyond the bathroom. And while it's not the most common bathroom mirror shape to choose, it can add a beautiful softness in the right scheme.

'Choosing the right mirror shape depends on the overall style and architecture of the bathroom. Round mirrors are ideal for softening a space and work especially well in coastal, organic, or modern interiors,' says Jackie Armour of JMA Interiors.

For Adam Wollerton, Bathroom Design Manager at BK Eleven, they are particularly favorable in bathrooms that feature lots of harsh angles. 'A round mirror works well where the bathroom has a lot of straight lines, square tiles, or more angular brassware, because it introduces a softer shape without adding detail,' he notes.

There are some pitfalls to be aware of with round bathroom mirrors, as they can be restrictive. 'It is worth remembering that a round mirror gives less reflective surface than a rectangular mirror of the same width, so it may not be the best option where practicality is the main concern,' he warns.

Arched Bathroom Mirrors

Arched mirrors are a great option if you like the softness of a round mirror but need more height and flexibility. It's a shape that makes the most of vertical space while still feeling a touch decorative.

And they work beautifully in a range of spaces. 'Arched mirrors add elegance and visual height, making them perfect for classic interiors or spaces with taller ceilings,' explains Jackie.

'An arched mirror can bring a more decorative feel,' Adam agrees, but notes that enough spacing is needed for this mirror shape to feel proportionate in a bathroom. 'It needs enough wall height above the vanity, as the proportions can look forced if the top of the arch sits too close to the ceiling, a shelf, or a light fitting.'

Pill-Shaped Bathroom Mirrors

You might not have considered a pill-shaped bathroom mirror, but it's a great choice in small bathrooms and above double bathroom vanities to really maximize available wall space.

'A pill-shaped mirror is a good option when you want height without the mirror feeling too severe, and I often recommend it for narrower vanities because it gives more usable reflection than a round mirror while still feeling softer than a rectangle,' says Adam.

They are also a favorable choice in more modern bathroom schemes without the harshness of sleek, angular mirrors. 'Pill-shaped mirrors offer a more contemporary look with softened edges,' Jackie adds.

Rectangular Bathroom Mirrors

The most commonly used of all bathroom mirror shapes, a rectangular design really gives you maximum reflection in the space available. It's also really easy to get the scale right with this shape, as measurements are much easier to calculate with a design that echoes the lines of a vanity.

'A rectangular mirror gives the greatest amount of usable reflection and is often the most practical choice above a wider vanity, especially where the bathroom is used every day, and you want the mirror to follow the line of the furniture below,' says Adam.

But beyond functionality, they also have a classic, enduring feel that transcends design styles. 'Rectangular mirrors feel timeless and structured, making them a great choice for traditional or transitional bathrooms with strong architectural lines,' Jackie notes.

The only pitfall here is that you miss an opportunity to add a softer feature, especially if your space is already full of clean, straight lines. In these cases, you might want to consider a rectangular bathroom mirror with subtly curved edges for a more organic silhouette.

Medicine Cabinets

If you want your bathroom mirror to work harder, a medicine cabinet gives you additional storage that most people simply can't be without. We're specifically talking about mirrored cabinets here to make the most of every inch.

'Functionality is also becoming increasingly important in bathroom design, particularly as clients seek spaces that feel visually calm while still supporting the realities of everyday routines. We are seeing a major return to the medicine cabinet, but in a far more integrated and elevated way than what many people traditionally associate with them,' says Kimberly.

'Clients today want skincare, beauty products, medications, and everyday essentials to feel organized, accessible, and intentionally concealed rather than cluttering countertops or overflowing drawers. As a result, nearly every bathroom we are designing now incorporates some form of integrated mirrored storage.'

The main drawback of a medicine cabinet is that it can be quite bulky, so where possible, designers recommend a recessed design. 'I think they can look a little clunky when they’re not built into the wall, and I highly recommend installing a recessed medicine cabinet if the option is available to you,' Kathy recommends.

Decorative and Sculptural Bathroom Mirrors

Design-led bathroom mirrors are becoming a must-have for many homeowners, making a functional feature part of the decor. From organic forms to intricate frames, they become part of the room's story.

The key to their success is understanding how they will sit and work with the available wall space. Spacing is really important here to ensure that the more organic shape feels cohesive with the rest of the room's decor, and as sit proportionately to your vanity and wall lighting, if you have it.

If you do prefer a more sculptural bathroom mirror, consider a mirrored cabinet design so you are still getting some functional benefits. Be really considerate of materials as well as how intricate the designs are – you don't want something really hard to clean.

Special Features to Consider

Bathroom mirrors are getting more and more high-tech, so it can be difficult to know which features are useful and which are just gratuitous. 'When choosing a bathroom mirror, people should think about features that improve both convenience and daily use,' says Juliette.

'Popular options include built-in LED lighting for better visibility, anti-fog technology for use after showers, magnification for grooming, touch controls, dimmable lighting, and smart features like clocks or Bluetooth speakers.'

For most designers, though, integrated lighting is among the few features they like to include. 'I tend to prefer a classic, no-frills option when it comes to bathroom mirrors, but the one element I do like to consider is in-mirror lighting that instantly improves the room’s functionality,' says Kathy.

It's especially beneficial if you require a large bathroom mirror that leaves no space for vanity lighting on the walls. 'A mirror with built-in LED lighting can make such a big difference for everyday tasks like grooming or applying makeup,' she adds.

Another feature that gets the designer seal of approval is anti-fog or demister capabilities. 'A demister pad is worth considering in any bathroom where the mirror is likely to steam up regularly, particularly in an ensuite or shower room where someone may want to use the mirror straight after showering,' says Richard Eaton, Design Manager at Tissino.

'Integrated sockets can be useful for electric toothbrushes or shavers, but only when they are positioned where they will genuinely be used, as extra features can quickly become unnecessary if they do not match how the room functions day to day. Touch controls, motion sensors, and adjustable lighting can all be useful, but I would treat them as solutions to specific problems, such as poor lighting, steam, or lack of plug-in points, rather than features to add automatically,' he adds.

Choosing a bathroom mirror goes beyond what looks aesthetic, based on your design style. It requires a balance of scale and proportion with thoughtful details and timeless shapes for a bathroom scheme that feels cohesive rather than lacklustre.

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Bold, busy, and full of drama – theatrical bathrooms are the 'it' trend of 2026. No longer are bathrooms a boring box of bland whites and functional features. Instead, they are the new hub of confidence to really stretch your design wings.

It's a bathroom trend that goes beyond aesthetics. It encourages you to rethink how you approach one of the most-used rooms in your home and embrace the same characterful style you do in softer rooms.

And it's a design style that designers are championing this year. From the enduring appeal to the elements that create a more dramatic look, here's everything you need to know to create a theatrical bathroom of your own.

'The appeal of theatrical bathroom design is that it transforms a highly functional space into an immersive emotional experience,' explains interior designer Tamara Feldman. 'Today, luxury is increasingly about storytelling and emotion, and theatrical bathrooms allow people to feel fully immersed in a mood and narrative.'

'We believe this aesthetic is resonating right now because there is a growing desire for interiors with personality, fantasy, and sensuality,' she continues. 'People are moving away from spaces that feel overly restrained or anonymous and gravitating toward environments that evoke feeling and escapism.'

As one of the smallest rooms in the home, a bathroom offers a unique opportunity to experiment with color, pattern, and layering in a way that could easily overwhelm a larger space, such as a living room or bedroom.

But it also taps into the purpose of a bathroom, too. 'Bathrooms, in particular, have evolved into spaces of ritual, wellness, and retreat, making them ideal for expressive and emotionally driven design,' Tamara adds.

1. Make a Statement With Architectural Details

While your mind may instantly go to pattern and color when creating a theatrical bathroom (which certainly applies), you also need to think about architectural details that add grandeur and interest to the design.

'I have always been so drawn to Moroccan architecture, so this was a huge inspiration behind this space. I included the arch over the bath area to square off the room and lead your eye upwards,' says Alice Palmer, Designer & Founder of Alice Palmer & Co.

'I drenched the space in my Olive Inverse Palm Grove Wallpaper and covered the floor and shower walls in Moroccan Zellige tiles. Patterned tiles, fabrics, and wallpapers are timeless, so creating a dynamic and theatrical bathroom will forever be popular. Creating somewhere that is cozy and has personality really is something that I believe will stand the test of time.'

2. Create a Layered Design

Layering different materials is a great way to create a theatrical effect, especially if they are all statement makers, rather than subtle. And it's depth of tone and texture, all layered together, that makes this space so successful.

'I approached this bathroom almost like a cinematic environment – layered, atmospheric, and transportive rather than purely utilitarian. What makes our design stand out is the richness and layering of the space,' says Tamara.

'Deep green tones, dramatic stone, sculptural details, atmospheric lighting, and jewel-like accents all contribute to a cinematic quality. The project balances glamour with intimacy, creating a bathroom that feels less like a functional room and more like an immersive experience.'

3. Allow Accessories To Bring the Theatre

Once you have your color palette down, the accessories you choose can truly transform your bathroom into a more theatrical space. Think lighting, art, and decorative mirrors that bring a dramatic style to the scheme.

'This room is our absolute favourite, just because it’s a little bohemian and downright glamorous, and it’s the first really special display we’ve done with our Victorian Washstand,' says Helen Parker, Creative Director of deVOL.

'Even those of us who like calm, serene, and understated interiors can enjoy a little smattering of eccentricity. We achieve this look by using vintage bathroom accessories and carefully considered flooring, wall colors, and styling that feels appropriate, comfortable, functional, but above all, beautiful in an unconventional and almost unintentional way.'

Vintage really comes into its own in this bathroom – the dramatic lights that feel just the right amount of gothic, mirrors that bring a touch of moody glamor, and wall art that feels carefully chosen, rather than a trending print you'd see in a standard space.

4. Embrace a Busy Wallpaper

Of course, bathroom wallpaper almost always features in a theatrical design. It adds drama and interest to the design, with different patterns and palettes bringing a unique energy to the room.

'Wallpaper has such a transformative impact on a space. It instantly adds depth, personality, and atmosphere, especially when carried across both the walls and ceiling to create that cocooning effect,' says Maggie Samson, US Interior Design and Sales Executive at House of Hackney.

Here, the same moody botanical print has been taken across the walls, ceiling, and window treatment to create a truly dramatic and immersive design. It looks truly striking within the room's proportions, but it works just as well in a more compact bathroom.

'I especially love using wallpaper in powder rooms, as they’re the perfect place to experiment with playful or whimsical prints that might feel too daring in a larger living space,' she adds.

5. Let a Bold Material Choice Set the Tone

Wallpaper isn't the only way to bring a strong sense of personality to a bathroom. With the functional needs of a bathroom, tiles and stone can be just as impactful, especially around baths, showers, and sinks.

'Bathroom theatre is really about giving the room a sense of occasion, without tipping it into anything too staged. Tiles do so much of the heavy lifting here because they are not just a backdrop; they decide how the room feels from the moment you walk in,' says Grazzie Wilson, Head of Creative at Ca’ Pietra.

'A tiled shower enclosure can become its own little scene, a marble-effect slab behind the bath can create the flourish you would usually expect in a drawing room, and a glossy handmade-style tile will catch the light in a way that gives the space movement without adding more decoration,' she explains.

'The secret is not to make every surface compete for attention, but to choose where the drama should live and let everything else give it space. It should not feel like a set you are afraid to touch; it should feel like a room that makes the everyday routine more enjoyable.'

The theatrical bathroom trend proves that this room is an underrated place to go bold with your design and experiment with a new and exciting style. 'The bathroom is one of the few spaces in the home where you’re almost given permission to go completely wild,' says Maggie.

'No matter your style, it’s the perfect place to create that jewel-box effect, drenching the room in pattern, print, or bold color in a way that feels exciting rather than overwhelming. It’s a bit like dipping your toes in before taking the plunge with bolder choices elsewhere in the home.'

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Bathrooms are among the most technically demanding rooms in a home. They must withstand the impact of water and humidity alongside daily wear and tear – while still feeling something of a sanctuary from the busy world outside. To add to the pressure, they also represent a significant financial commitment. Design decisions pivot on an intricate interplay between plumbing, electrical work, hard finishes, and the right layout. All carry long-term consequences: once in, things cannot easily be undone.

Our approach – and that shared by many designs – is that the success of a timeless bathroom isn’t defined by spa styling or stand-out statement fittings. It’s shaped by proportion, functional logic, material restraint, and bathroom ideas that have longevity. What follows is the framework professionals rely upon.

1. Proportion

It’s the scale of everything that determines whether a bathroom feels calm or cramped. The bathroom should never feel secondary to the bedroom or dressing space, giving it enough room from the outset makes all the difference. ‘We’re increasingly seeing bathrooms broken into more considered zones: a separate WC, or even splitting bathing and showering entirely, which creates a much calmer way to live with the space,’ says James Lentaigne, CEO of the New York- and London-based luxury bathware company Drummonds.

In terms of proportion, it’s less about rules and more about balance. ‘We often think of the bathroom as a study in simple geometry,’ says David Ries of New York-based firm Ries Hayes. ‘If the major elements are rectilinear, continue that language in the wall tile, creating a calm and cohesive backdrop.’

A double bathroom vanity is wonderful in a principal bathroom, but only if it has space around it – otherwise, two smaller vanities can feel far more elegant. ‘When designing a bathroom, I usually start by thinking about the vanity size as well as placement, as it tends to anchor the room,’ says New York- and Wyoming-based interior designer Lauren Carlucci, founder of her eponymous studio. ‘It should feel generous enough to be functional, but not so large that it overwhelms circulation. In smaller spaces, a more compact vanity with well-considered bathroom storage – medicine cabinets go a long way – is often far more successful than trying to force scale.'

‘The bath is typically the focal point, so placement is everything,’ says James. ‘It should feel both visible and slightly protected – away from draughts, harsh lighting or busy areas. Increasingly, it’s positioned in a quieter corner or alcove to enhance that sense of retreat.’

From the doorway, the room should read as composed. If something feels visually dominant for no reason, it likely is. For a project in Louisville, Kentucky, the London-based interior designer Sarah Brown positioned a circular bench in the center of the principal bathroom. The room was large enough to warrant an anchor point in the center. ‘It’s become a conversational piece at bathtime,’ says Sarah.

‘In smaller bathrooms, I often lean toward larger-format tiles or slabs to reduce visual noise,’ adds Lauren Carlucci. ‘In larger spaces, you can introduce more variation, but it should always feel intentional rather than busy.’ Use both color and geometry to unify a tile design, says Crystal Maki, principal at Silverwing Interiors. By contrasting large format tiles with smaller scale ones, it creates a subtle layering that holds the eye without overwhelming the space.’

2. Function First

A successful bathroom feels intuitive to use, meaning that everything has its place from storage, to towels and toiletries. This boils down to something that designers describe as ‘invisible design intelligence’. Function should guide the bathroom layout from the beginning. Keeping the toilet out of sight is a good starting point, but beyond that, the real success lies in early planning. Towel rails are a classic example: they’re often left too late, when in reality they need proper wall space. That might mean subtly shaping the room: boxing in a toilet or shower can create more usable surfaces for heating and fittings.

Where possible, always separate the bath and shower. Vancouver-based Kelly Deck, founder of Kelly Deck Design, recommends creating a clear delineation between bathing and beautifying zones in a bathroom, where space allows. That said, in smaller rooms, restraint is key. A well-proportioned shower will always work better than trying to force in something oversized, says James Lentaigne.

Clutter will quickly undermine the aesthetic of an otherwise beautifully designed space. In shared bathrooms, storage should be designed around individual routines so two people can move comfortably without overlap or clutter.

A double vanity works best when it clearly defines separate areas: each person gets their own drawer stack, outlet access, and mirror space, says Ashley Gallion, founder of Ashley Ayer Interiors. ‘Inside, divide storage by function – daily items in top drawers, backups below – to keep mornings efficient. Flanking towers or vertical cabinets between or beside sinks add dedicated personal storage without crowding circulation, while shallow drawers prevent items from getting lost.’

Samantha Feuer of Tennessee-based interior designers Norris Studio recommends incorporating vintage furniture into a bathroom–adding warmth and storage. ‘A wooden library cart for towel storage, or a chinoiserie cabinet are great additions,’ she adds.

3. Materials That Endure

Bathrooms are humid environments, so the impact of ventilation and heating are just as important as any other consideration. Not only will marble suffer in a poorly ventilated space, but a towel rail won’t heat a bathroom on its own, so both need to be properly considered early on. Quiet, efficient extraction is essential to protect paint from mold staining and premature wear.

'For brassware, nickel offers a crisp, low-maintenance finish, while antique or unlacquered brass introduces warmth and develops character over time', says James Lentaigne. Overly polished or synthetic finishes often date faster.

Marble remains a classic choice for vanities: it’s timeless, tactile, and quietly luxurious. The quality of the stone makes a significant difference, with beautifully figured marbles such as Arabescato Corchia elevating the entire space. ‘What makes marble particularly suited to bathrooms is its versatility,’ says Maria DeCotiis, owner and principal designer at her eponymous studio. ‘It can seamlessly transition from floors to walls to millwork, creating a layered, immersive experience. It’s also incredibly durable and, when sealed correctly, holds up beautifully in high-moisture environments.’

Underfoot, natural materials always feel right for bathroom floors. Stone gives a sense of permanence, while timber can add warmth if it’s properly specified, looked after, and the room is well ventilated. ‘Timber absolutely has a place in a bathroom when used with intention,’ say Naina Hotchkiss and Allison McAfee of Dallas-based Park Interiors. ‘We like incorporating it through vanities or cabinetry in stain-grade finishes to introduce warmth and contrast against stone and tile. It softens the overall palette and makes the space feel more inviting.’

‘I always gravitate toward materials that age well,’ says New York-based interior designer Marissa Stokes. ‘Natural stone is a favorite, but composites can be great for durability. Warm metals and touches of wood help keep the space from feeling too cold.’

The Miami- and London-based interior designer Natalia Miyar says she’s always been drawn to using copper in unexpected ways, keeping it in its natural state so it can age with character. For a property in Ibiza, she used a custom red-copper bath sourced from India, purposefully built with extra-thick walls to help moderate the room’s acoustics. ‘Set within an indoor-outdoor bathroom that opens onto a private garden with an outdoor shower, the experience is designed to feel as though you are bathing in nature,’ says the decorator. ‘It’s a detail that brings both function and quiet luxury.’

4. Well-Edited Schemes

A timeless bathroom, which is designed to endure rather than make a bold statement, will benefit from a tightly controlled scheme. ‘A pared-back material story allows the finer details to shine,’ says David Ries of Ries Hayes. ‘Elements like sculptural fittings or lighting begin to read almost as jewelry.'

'No one is a bigger fan of bold, colorful bathrooms than I am,' says Louisville-based Bethany Adams, principal of Bethany Adams Interiors. ‘However, if timelessness is your goal, I think it is wise to consider light neutral palettes, commonly used materials like Carrara marble, hexagonal floor tile, in either marble or ceramic, and historically prevalent finishes like chrome or unlacquered brass.’ To keep the mood au courant, she suggests adding less permanent and trendier flourishes like a fabric sink skirt, cool bath rug, or special sconces, which can be changed at a later date.

California-based interior designer Holly A. Kopman doesn’t follow any rule about limiting the number of materials used in a bathroom – it feels too prescriptive, she says. ‘I design more instinctively, chasing what feels right in the space. For me, it’s about tension: organic against geometric, soft against structured, polished against raw. That push and pull is what makes a room feel alive rather than overthought.’

Layering is key to achieving this, continues Holly. ‘Pattern, texture, sculptural lighting, unexpected materials – nothing should feel flat or one-note. I want a space to unfold as you spend time in it, where the details keep revealing themselves. And then there’s stone. I’m obsessed with it. The movement, the drama, the imperfections – its nature doing its thing, and you can’t replicate that. When you let the material speak, it becomes the art in the room.’

5. Good Lighting

Lighting a bathroom should never be an afterthought: it needs early consideration to ensure a scheme that layers in light and can adapt with the changing amount of natural light and conjure the necessary atmosphere. That means plenty of directional light for getting ready alongside soft and flattering settings to tone everything down when it’s time to relax. 'Say no to toe-kick lighting or lighting a niche in the shower,' says Samantha Feuer of Norris Studio. ‘It’s just not timeless.’

When drawing up a lighting scheme, maximize natural light where possible; well-placed bathroom mirrors and glossy tile surfaces can help bounce limited light around the room. Or, in its absence, use bright, neutral lighting for daytime tasks to keep the space feeling fresh and functional. Combine this with effective mirror-level task lighting to avoid shadows, and ambient ceiling lighting for overall illumination.

'Dimmers make a big difference for creating a more relaxed feel in the evening,' says New York City-based Marissa Stokes, founder of Marissa Stokes Interior Design. 'The key is flexibility, so the bathroom can shift easily from energizing in the morning to calming at night,' adds Ashley Gallion, founder of Ashley Ayer Interiors.

In addition to layered lighting, adding a chandelier or pendant above the bathtub can define the tub as a focal point and bring a sense of luxury to the bathroom. This overhead fixture acts as both ambient and accent lighting, drawing the eye and creating a visual anchor in the room.

Choose a design that complements the overall style – glass, metal, or even a subtle wood finish – and ensure it's rated for damp or wet locations. ‘Placing a pendant or chandelier above the tub not only enhances the atmosphere for evening relaxation but also reinforces the hierarchy of the space, making the bathtub feel intentional and sculptural rather than just functional,’ says Ashley. Consider reflections from surfaces, too: glossy tiles will make a room brighter while matte finishes, such as tadelakt on the walls, absorb light more gently.

6. Create Continuity

A bathroom should feel connected to the wider home. Repeating hardware finishes, flooring finishes, or echoing architectural details helps the bathroom feel cohesive and considered. It’s a balancing act, says Ashley Ayers, to create visual and material continuity without making it feel identical.

‘Carry through the home’s color palette in walls, tiles, or cabinetry, and echo architectural details like molding, trim, and flooring transitions to make the space feel intentional. Coordinate hardware and fixtures – taps, pulls, lighting finishes – with those used elsewhere, and use complementary textures such as timber or stone to reinforce cohesion.’

Maintaining consistent scale, proportions, and visual weight ensures the bathroom feels integrated rather than isolated, while still allowing it to function as a personal, restful retreat.

The Memphis-based designer Sean Anderson recently completed a farmhouse project for clients in Alabama. Color creates a strong link throughout the property. While the same greige paint was used downstairs, green dominates upstairs, including in the main bathroom.

‘It was something we were seeing in the leaves outside and deriving inspiration from nature because that’s who these clients are,’ explains Sean. ‘They live outdoors, and with the rooms being on the second level and having a little more light, we could go a little brighter with the green.’

Bathrooms shouldn’t feel like isolated moments, agrees Lauren Carlucci. ‘They should carry through the broader language of the home.’ This can be achieved through consistent tones, materials, or architectural details. Continuing hardware finishes, echoing colors used elsewhere, or aligning millwork profiles can all help create continuity. ‘Even the smallest details can ensure a bathroom feels considered and connected rather than standalone.’

7. Avoid Fleeting Trends

We all know how avocado green bathrooms dominated bathroom design during the 1960s and 1970s and quickly fell out of favor in the later decades. While colored sanitaryware might be experiencing something of a resurgence in this year's bathroom trends, they are probably best avoided for a truly timeless scheme. Other elements that can quickly date a bathroom include overly thematic spa styling, novelty basins, sculptural taps, and even highly patterned encaustic tiles. Classic references such as marble, ceramic, simple brassware, and understated joinery will outlast any trend-driven statements.

‘Encaustic concrete tiles, for example, can lean trend-driven depending on the pattern and application,’ say Naina Hotchkiss and Allison McAfee of Park Interiors. ‘Similarly, an all brass approach across plumbing, hardware, and accents can start to feel overly specific and less enduring over time. We also tend to avoid wall-to-wall mirrors, which can feel more builder-grade and lack the detail and character we prefer to bring into a space.’

Heritage designs are a safe bet: if they haven’t lost their appeal in the last 100 years, they are likely to remain popular for the next. Roll top baths and taps in time-hono,red shapes to classic finishing touches, like subway tiles, stand the test of time. Classic styles are also being designed in new materials, to make them align more with modern lifestyles, including acrylic baths, which are more affordable, durable and easier to maintain than their cast iron counterparts.

Marissa Stokes says she tends to avoid anything too trendy or overly decorative, to avoid falling into a trap that will age a bathroom quickly. ‘Simpler, classic choices last longer, and you can always layer in personality through smaller details.’ Instead, character and interest can be introduced through mirrors, textiles, artwork, or accessories, elements that are easy to update. Permanent fixtures should err toward restraint. In the end, longevity is the ultimate luxury.

Quick Tips

What Makes a Bathroom Timeless Rather Than Trendy?

Timeless bathrooms prioritise proportion, quality materials, and restrained detailing. They avoid overtly decorative trends in favour of surfaces and fixtures that age gracefully. The emphasis is on balance and longevity rather than novelty.

How Do You Choose Bathroom Finishes That Won’t Date?

Select natural materials or neutral tones with subtle texture. Avoid highly specific colours or patterns tied to a particular trend cycle. Test finishes in natural and artificial light before committing.

How Many Materials Should a Bathroom Include?

As a rule of thumb, limit the space to three dominant materials. This creates cohesion and prevents visual clutter while allowing subtle contrast.

Can a Modern Bathroom Still Feel Timeless?

Yes. Clean lines, disciplined detailing, and high-quality materials ensure modern bathrooms feel enduring rather than trend-led. Simplicity, when well judged, rarely dates.

A well-designed bathroom that will stand the test of time is shaped by clarity, not excess. When proportion is balanced, function is intuitive, materials are durable and the palette is restrained, the result feels calm and enduring. The most successful bathrooms do not announce themselves. They feel resolved, quietly luxurious, technically sound and built to last.

The Homes & Gardens Library is your definitive guide to timeless design wisdom. From choosing the perfect sofa to mastering the fundamentals of layout, each piece in the series draws on expert insight to guide you through the key principles of interior design. Thoughtfully curated yet easy to digest, it’s the essential reference for anyone looking to create a home that is beautiful, practical, and enduring.

There's truly nothing more relaxing than a day at the spa, unwinding and being pampered – it's a picture of tranquility. But why should you only enjoy that feeling once in a blue moon? For designers, it's a sense we should enjoy daily.

Which is why bathroom trends are all pointing towards spa-like spaces that imbue the same calm and serenity of a spa at home. It's about designing a space that appeals to all your senses and allows you to start and end your day in the most calming manner.

Yes, color and tiles all come into play, but many smaller, more decorative features are key to creating a spa bathroom. From elevated essentials to soft, relaxing materials, here's everything you need to create a truly tranquil experience at home.

'The wellness trend has taken over right now from luxury hotels to home spas and gyms, and it’s increasingly shaping how we design bathrooms. Today’s bathrooms are envisioned as serene retreats, quiet, calming spaces where everything has its place,' says interior designer Jess Cooney.

It's about choosing decor and essentials with intention. The colors and materials you choose are crucial to creating that spa-like tranquility – natural materials like wood and marble, warm whites, light earth tones, and even hints of terracotta and mushroom hues strike the perfect balance between relaxing and luxurious.

'Clean-lined vanities, symmetrical layouts, and organic textures combine to create restorative environments that echo the spa experience. The emphasis is on calm proportion, natural light, and a restrained palette that supports nervous system regulation,' explains Rose Praino, Co-Founder and Creative Director of YDC Design.

A successful spa bathroom also hinges on careful consideration of the pieces you introduce, where they live, and how many items are on display. Clutter is the opposite of relaxing, so a calmly curated space is key to a design that promotes wellness.

Think elevated canisters for your everyday essentials, beautiful trays giving soaps, lotions, and fragrances a more curated look, and exquisitely crafted storage designs that bring another dimension to your bathroom, rather than being purely functional.

To help you curate a spa atmosphere in your bathroom, no matter the size or budget, we've curated an edit of essentials and little luxuries that will bring instant tranquility and thoughtful consideration to your space.

Shop Spa Bathroom Essentials

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There's an overriding trend this year in functional rooms for a softer, cozier feel, and the bathroom is no exception. To avoid a sense of predictability, skirted vanities are becoming one of the most popular and effective ways to achieve the look.

It's also a bathroom trend that has longevity – vanity skirts have an almost traditional feel, yet they still appeal in schemes of every size and style. And designers say they are the one trend really worth considering this year.

Here's why skirted designs are soaring in popularity, how they transform a bathroom vanity, and how to get it right. Plus, they can be achieved on a budget, so it's a really accessible way to elevate your bathroom in 2026.

Why Are Skirted Bathroom Vanities Trending?

There aren't that many opportunities in a bathroom to bring in softer materials – the obvious being a bath rug, window treatments, and sometimes a shower curtain. But a skirted vanity transforms a solid, angular feature into a softer and more decorative one.

'It softens an otherwise very rectilinear, cold plumbing surface, such as a pedestal sink,' agrees Boston-based interior designer Katie Rosenfeld. 'It correlates directly with the popularity of cottage and nostalgic chic right now.'

It's about making bathrooms, which can often be filled with hard lines and cold materials, feel warmer, personalized, and more considered in terms of decor. There's something far more comforting about a beautiful piece of fabric draped around the base of a bathroom sink than clunky doors.

It signals a real correlation to the way we now treat our cooking spaces – we've seen a clear shift towards soft kitchens, and it's now filtering down to bathrooms, and even laundry and boot rooms. In 2026, no room is purely about utility.

But the appeal of a skirted vanity goes beyond adding softness, pattern, and color. It can be incredibly practical, too. 'In small bathrooms, it can be a space-saving way of adding hidden storage,' explains interior designer Sarah Vanrenen.

'They can be more budget-friendly than vanity units, but there’s also a move towards creating bathrooms that feel more like furnished rooms than clinical spaces,' she adds, noting that the rise of the trend is more multifaceted than a simple aesthetic choice.

How to Get the Trend Right

Introducing a bathroom vanity skirt is easier than you might think – you just need to choose a fabric that complements your room's design style and color palette, and decide on an installation that holds up well.

'If they are being fitted to pedestal basins, we often use extra-strong Velcro, but if you are fitting them to the underside of a piece of joinery, they can also be fitted either on slim brass rails or on curtain tracks,' says Sarah.

This is a really important step – really think about what you store beneath your sink or in your vanity. If it's things you need to access regularly, a rail may be a better choice as it allows easier access.

If you store cleaning products or items used less often, Velcro is far easier to install and is often more affordable. The key here is that a skirt shouldn't impede function, but enhance it – while looking incredibly pretty.

Take your time choosing a fabric, especially where pattern and bold color are concerned. You want to choose something with personality, and that feels cohesive in the bathroom, but you also want it to be a design you won't tire of. And the style of your bathroom can be a great starting point.

'In more traditional bathroom settings, an all-over floral can look so pretty and a bit nostalgic. In more contemporary settings, a stripe always looks tailored and smart. Avoiding a fabric with too much white background is sensible as it won’t show up any water staining,' Sarah suggests.

'Go custom. It can be ruched or more tailored – treat it like any other skirted table or upholstery, and add various details,' says Katie, adding that the best patterns, prints, and materials are those that speak to the wider bathroom decor. 'Work with existing wallpaper, paint, and surroundings – a safe bet is always ticking or a check.'

Shop Bathroom Vanity Skirts and Fabrics

A skirt is the perfect way to elevate your bathroom vanity without losing out on valuable storage. It's a design detail that shouldn't impede function, but should absolutely improve the style and softness of your space.

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There's nothing worse than a too-big vanity in a small bathroom, taking up valuable space and impeding walkway flow when you try to access the storage. But it's not easy to find a small vanity with the same style impact as luxurious double designs.

Well, that was until I started scrolling through the Way Day deals and found perhaps my favorite sale find ever. The Classe 24" Freestanding Bathroom Vanity has the perfect proportions for a more compact scheme without compromising on elevated style.

With its golden oak finish, ceramic sink, and cane door details, it's got all the charm of a vintage design with the modern practicalities a small bathroom needs. And with over $45 off, it's the perfect time to give your small space the upgrade it deserves.

So often, small bathroom vanities are sleek, function-first, and lean relatively contemporary. But what if you want to infuse a more characterful style without compromising on space-saving design?

The answer is this charming freestanding vanity that packs a stylish punch in one compact design. With its classic wood finish and simple ceramic top, paired with the textured cane door details, it fits seamlessly into bathrooms of almost any style.

But it's the size that really appeals. Measuring just 24 inches in diameter, it's big enough to add plenty of hidden storage and usable counter space without overcrowding a small bathroom.

Plus, the double vanity doors mean they only reach half the length, so you don't have to awkwardly make space for them to open fully. Not only does it tick the box for a small vanity, but it also works in a space that has very limited floor space to navigate.

The wrong-sized bathroom vanity can completely compromise the functionality and flow of a small space, so swapping out an oversized unit for something smaller and more refined, like this charming design, will make a huge difference to your design.

And at a time when bathroom trends are all about personalizing rooms and prioritizing warmth and character over minimalist design, there's really no reason not to take advantage of this limited-time offer. Be quick – deals like this one sell out fast.

A bathroom vanity is the hardest-working feature in a small bathroom, so a design like this one is key to blending style and function in one compact package. If you're looking for more options, our edit of the best bathroom vanities has something for every space and style.

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The shift from open to broken plan layouts has been a huge topic of conversation in kitchens this year, but what about bathrooms?

Now more than ever, people are gravitating toward bathroom layout ideas that feel a bit more divided, and it's an approach interior designers are championing. A broken plan bathroom creates thoughtful zones and a greater sense of privacy.

So, if you're planning a refresh this year, take notes. A broken plan bathroom is set to become one of the most coveted designs, so we've asked designers exactly how to get the look right.

What is a Broken Plan Bathroom?

We have become very used to the classic bathroom layout, where you enter the room and the shower, bath, vanity, and toilet are all placed in one open room. But broken plan layouts are challenging this classic approach, creating clear zones.

It's about breaking up a large space where everything is visible in the same flow. Perhaps it's a shower nook, a glass divider separating the bath area, or even a dedicated space housing only your bathroom vanity.

'We’re seeing a growing interest in broken-plan bathrooms as people move away from purely functional spaces towards something more considered. Rather than one open room, subtle zoning allows areas for bathing, washing, and dressing to sit alongside each other while still feeling connected,' explains James Lentaigne, Creative Director at Drummonds.

'What makes it so appealing is the balance between openness and privacy. It brings a more architectural approach to the bathroom, with greater emphasis on layout, proportion, and flow. There’s also a practical advantage, particularly in larger spaces, helping to manage light, movement, and acoustics without the need for full enclosure.'

Why it's Trending

The emergence of broken plan schemes comes at a time when bathroom trends are shifting towards cozier spaces that feel more like a tranquil retreat than a functional room. But bathroom designs are also getting more personalized, designed less to impress and more to reflect the homeowner.

'Creating zones within a broken plan makes the floor plan feel intentional. It shows how the family uses the space beautifully and creates purpose within every area,' says Laura Williams, Founder and Principal Designer of Living Oak Interior Design.

It's that sense of understanding how a bathroom is used, rather than creating something that looks good to outsiders, that truly appeals, and a more segmented layout really aids this.

'We are constantly trying to refine how we live, looking at how the past has lived and trying to improve on it to work better with our current needs. Many people are staying at home more, so focusing on their needs more, rather than guests, and so wanting more space for their daily lives. It is actually harking back to the original bathrooms where loos were separate rooms,' says interior designer Octavia Dickinson.

'Broken plan bathrooms allow for more than one person to use different aspects of the bathroom at the same time. It also means there are zones for different things; a zone to go to the loo, a zone to have a peaceful bath in, a wet zone for the shower, a light zone for the basin to see well in,' she continues.

'It allows one to be playful and stick to more practical design in areas where it is needed, but splash out in areas that are less high traffic and less precious.'

How to Design a Broken Plan Bathroom

When designing a broken plan bathroom, decide on the element you want to have divided from the main space. It could be the shower in a separate nook, or the vanity in its own area that feels a bit more dressing room-like.

'Start with what items you want to have in your bathroom, if it's a bath, shower, toilet, basin, double basin, large double shower, etc, and then look at all the options of where they can go on your floor plan,' suggests Octavia.

'Think about the flow, and what you want near each other, and also where it is best to have the window(s). It makes sense to section off the toilet and also the shower, two areas that work well enclosed on their own.'

1. Introduce a Wet Room

One of the easiest ways to create a more broken plan bathroom is to introduce a wet room layout. The shower and bath sit behind a glass divider, naturally breaking up the room to keep the wetter areas away from the dry.

'A wet room is a sure way to create a beautiful broken-plan bathroom. Having the shower and tub together not only maximizes space but also creates a separation between the showering area and the vanity area,' says Laura.

In this bathroom, a glass divider between the wet room area, housing the shower and bath, and the vanity space is effective in zoning the two areas without blocking light. The areas feel separate yet still cohesive.

2. Use Furniture to Create a Broken Plan Bathroom

This bathroom feels far from a cold space, with a forest-themed tapestry covering the walls, which, on first look, you might assume only a freestanding bath lives in this space. But smartly designed pocket doors create a broken plan layout, hiding the vanity.

'There are several ways to approach [a broken plan bathroom], from partial walls or half-height partitions to changes in level or material. Glass screens and open frameworks can define areas without interrupting light, while freestanding pieces such as a bath or shower can act as natural dividers within the room,' says James.

A mix of the two has been used here, with built-in cabinets allowing the homeowners to switch between uses, and hide away the vanity and storage when they just want to relax in the tub. 'The pocket door vanity creates a subtle division between bathing and function while keeping the visual flow uninterrupted.'

3. Locate a Shower or Bath in a Dedicated Nook

Where some broken plan bathrooms require screens and dividing walls to be erected, others can work with the existing architecture and utilize niches and small closets to create a more zoned layout.

'It can create a more interesting bathroom layout where you are thinking about the different sections of the bathroom individually. Having the shower in its own niche meant it didn't need a door, giving the bathroom a more easy, relaxed feel,' says Octavia.

The key takeaway from utilizing niches and different zones is that you can get creative with different designs and materials within one (usually) small space. 'You can create vistas, arches into each section, and play with different door designs,' adds Octavia.

Broken plan layouts aren't about completely separating the different components of the room, but zoning and dividing to create a better flow and a greater sense of privacy. These spaces demonstrate how effective broken layouts can be, whether it's a glass screen to separate the shower or a vanity you can close behind pocket doors.

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Few materials work quite as hard as tiles in a bathroom. Yes, they're an incredibly functional feature, but they also add a lot visually, so needless to say, you want to choose them well.

And in 2026, bathroom tiles are seeing a real shift in style, away from stark whites and overstated geometrics and towards nuanced color palettes, gentler patterns, and more thoughtful applications.

Whether you're planning a renovation or are simply feeling curious, these are the biggest bathroom tile trends worth knowing in 2026, according to interior designers who have seen and tried it all.

The Bathroom Tile Trends to Know in 2026

We're firm believers that your bathroom tiles should be as visually striking as they are functional, and trend reports are always a great source of designer-approved inspiration. From the colors and patterns to the types of tile everyone's talking about, these are the 2026 trends to know for your bathroom ideas.

1. Tiles in Deep Saturated Tones

In the past, light, bright, and neutral tones may have reigned supreme, but 2026 is all about embracing a deeper, earthier palette for tiles. And it's not just the color itself, but also the undertones to ensure you are creating a space that feels warm and inviting.

'In 2026, bathroom tile is moving in a more expressive direction. We’re seeing people embrace richer, more saturated colors, like deep greens, garnets, and warm ochres, as a way to bring more mood and personality into the space,' says Jamie Chappell of Fireclay Tile.

'I’d keep the styling pretty intentional and let the tile be the star. If you’re going with a bold, saturated color, even something small – like a niche or a backsplash – can completely change the feel of the room, especially when everything else is a bit more understated.'

2. Artisanal Bathroom Tiles

The desire for texture and interest prevails, and tiles are one of the best ways to introduce a more organic finish to a bathroom scheme. As such, those more irregular forms, like zellige tiles, are proving popular.

'There’s also a big shift toward tiles that feel a little more lived-in and artisanal. Glazes with variation, movement, and depth give that collected, handmade look, which feels a lot more personal than perfectly uniform finishes,' Jamie notes.

'With more high-variation or handmade-looking tile, I like to balance it out with simpler materials – think warm wood, soft stone, or clean-lined fixtures, so the space doesn’t feel too busy.'

3. Pretty Patterns and Gentle Geometrics

Tiles that embrace pattern are back in a big way, but not the overly bold, geometric designs of past years. Instead, 2026 bathroom tile trends are gravitating towards softer, more nuanced patterns that feel considered rather than overwhelming.

'Pattern is coming back in a big way, too. From checkerboards to mosaics and more unexpected layouts, people are getting more confident about using tile to make a statement. Overall, it’s less about playing it safe and more about creating a bathroom that actually reflects your style,' Jamie explains.

'If you’re leaning into a pattern, the best thing you can do is commit to it. A checkerboard floor or mosaic wall can have a lot of impact, especially when you keep the rest of the space a little more minimal so it all feels cohesive rather than overwhelming.'

For Burcu Ercetin of Design & Curations, the most on-trend checkerboard patterns are those in more muted tones. 'Mid-scale checker patterns are making a BIG comeback, but in softer, more nuanced colorways rather than high-contrast only. Think cream paired with muted gray, or ivory with warm tones for a more elevated, European feel.'

4. Classic Palettes With a Modern Twist

Classic bathroom color pairings will always be in style, but when it comes to tile choices this year, designers say there is a shift towards a more modernized take on these beloved combinations.

'Updated classic palettes [are trending], where timeless layouts meet trend-forward colors. For example, emerald green paired with warm neutrals, or layered creams and ivories for a tonal, calming space,' says Burcu.

'Lean into a layered approach. Pair these tiles with natural materials like warm wood bathroom vanities, alternating stone accents, and mixed metals to create depth - while keeping the plumbing fixture finish consistent.'

5. A Return to Tradition

There are several traditional bathroom features making a comeback this year, and tiles are no exception. Tiles in classic patterns, timeless layouts, and natural materials are reinstating themselves as staples in bathrooms this year.

'Much like residential architecture as a whole, bathroom design is experiencing a resurgence in interest for traditional elements. Timeless tile palettes are much more desirable than bold tile choices,' explains Jaime Dupes, Senior Lead Designer at Copper Sky Design + Remodel.

'In 2026, we will continue to see hand-glazed ceramic tiles, natural stones, checkerboard floors, hexagon mosaics, and neutral colors dominating bathrooms. These sophisticated materials pair well with warm wood elements and nickel or brass plumbing fixtures.'

6. Color Drenching with Bathroom Tiles

If you thought color drenching would be a fleeting trend, think again. It's an approach that helps you to create a cozy, all-encompassing scheme, and in bathrooms this year, designers say tiles will be an important part of creating a tonal look.

'Color drenching has become one of the defining moves of 2026, and that styling crosses into tile as well. Upcoming bathroom designs are tile-drenched; our studio is running the same tile from floor to wall to shower with no interruption, no transition. What that creates reads as architectural rather than decorative. It stops being a tiled bathroom and shifts into being a styled room of the house,' says Karen Asprea, Founder and Principal of Asprea Studio.

'Depending on the look you’re going for, this can be done with either large-format tiles, creating a modern space, or with smaller tiles, creating a continuous texture. Resist the urge to break it up with a contrast border or accent tile; the restraint is the statement. Let fixture finishes do the work instead. A brushed brass faucet or an unlacquered bronze becomes the moment of contrast instead. The look is elevated, chic, and lasting.'

7. Herringbone Takes the Spotlight

When you think of herringbone, wooden flooring probably comes to mind. But designers are seeing this classic look make its appearance in bathroom tile trends, bringing an unexpected layout to these small rooms.

'I believe a herringbone tile pattern will stay current and big in 2026. It is a very easy way to create texture in a bathroom by simply creating a pattern from a brick tile,' says Caren Rideau, Founder and Principal of Kitchen Design Group.

There are so many ways to create the look, from zellige and porcelain tiles to more natural materials. In this scheme, brick floor tiles in a herringbone layout add a more rustic, Mediterranean bathroom feel to the design.

8. Mosaic and Matchstick Tiles

Bathroom tiles are getting tinier in 2026, with mosaic and matchstick becoming all the more desirable. But layout and application really are key with this tile style to ensure it looks chic instead of dated.

'For 2026, I’m seeing a lot of movement toward mosaic and matchstick tile, particularly in classic layouts and Moroccan-inspired motifs,' says Jaime Rummerfield, Founder and Principal of Jaime Rummerfield Design and Save Iconic Architecture.

'They bring in just enough pattern and detail to make a space feel special, but still really livable. I always think about how to keep things feeling timeless, and these styles strike that balance beautifully.'

9. Adding Striking Tile Designs in Smaller Doses

It can be tempting to fill your bathroom with bold tiles throughout in hopes of creating a really personality-filled design. But in 2026, restraint is the buzzword, and adding focal points in small doses is key to an elevated design.

'Homeowners are increasingly prioritizing color in their bathrooms, and tiles are an easy way to add both color and texture to a space,' says Cath Beckett, Co-founder of Yellow London.

'We like to take advantage of this by using tiles in plain colors like a bright blue, and more daring patterns like a vibrant stripe as bath surrounds, backsplashes, or even to encase an entire shower,' she explains.

10. Personality-Led Tile Choices

Talking of personality, tiles are being far more considered in designs this year. No longer are they taking a backseat to bold paint colors or statement wallpapers – instead, bathroom tiles are forming the basis of characterful style.

'We’ve had years of very safe, neutral bathrooms – beautiful, but often quite similar. That’s starting to shift. People now wish to bring personality into a space, rather than just playing it safe. So instead of defaulting to the usual options, it’s about looking for something that feels a bit more individual, whether that’s through color, texture, shape, or finish,' says Lesley Taylor BIID, Interior Designer and Founder of Baked Tiles.

'The key thing is to avoid the obvious. Rather than starting with a trend, start with the mood you want to create. Do you want something calm and natural, or something more bold and expressive? Once you’ve got that clear, you can choose tiles that help build that look, and this is where the fun can start, as styling then becomes much more creative.'

If one thing is clear, it's that this year's bathroom tile trends are shifting towards designs that embrace atmosphere and personality, rather than a basic style. 'Ultimately, the bathrooms that will stand out in 2026 are the ones where the tiles have been chosen and used in a way that reflects the personality of the person living with them,' says Lesley.

'It’s about creating something that feels a little less standard, and a lot more personal.' And if you're looking for characterful ideas to bring the rest of your scheme to life, take inspiration from the biggest bathroom trends for 2026 and beyond, as reported by designers.

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Your bathroom is one of the trickier rooms to redecorate. Other than a fresh coat of paint and some new hardware, changes can be expensive and disruptive, so it's important to be selective about the bathroom trends you choose to follow.

And according to designers, there are a few looks that dominated bathroom ideas in 2025 that are feeling decidedly outdated this year. From flat, cool-toned tiles to uninspired vanity designs, they're all looks they are actively avoiding.

Here are the outdated bathroom trends experts are tired of seeing, and the more stylish, timeless alternatives they suggest instead. The key theme? It's all about texture, interest, and unique design.

7 Outdated Bathroom Trends to Avoid

When you're designing a bathroom, every detail matters. From color and tiles to hardware finishes and vanity designs, it's a room full of a few elements that all have a big impact. And if you want that impact to be elevated and timeless rather than lackluster and outdated, these are the trends to avoid.

1. Oversized Showers

For a minute there, shower trends were all about the super-sized. Spacious shower areas, even those within a full bathroom, felt like the pillar of luxury in theory, but in practice, they feel vast, cold, and a bit of a waste of space.

'I think the bigger-is-better trend when it comes to showers is on the way out. For one, monster-size showers can get a bit cold. Also, who really needs all of that space? Using less space for the shower leaves room for a freestanding tub or makeup vanity. It's a win/win all around,' says Sarah Moore, founder of Sarah Catherine Design.

'A smaller shower footprint can actually make a big impact! Think less square footage with big statements like beautiful marble or colorful tile. These elements could otherwise feel overwhelming in a large space, but fit in perfectly in smaller baths. Smaller footprints can also keep you cozy in the shower while leaving room for more bold, interesting choices throughout,' she explains.

2. Cool-Toned Porcelain Tiles

Don't confuse calming and serene with cold and stark. Those cool-toned white and gray porcelain tiles may have had their moment in the spotlight, but in 2026, they are the recipe for an uninviting and outdated bathroom.

'Bathrooms that lean too sterile and pristine are falling out of trend. Flat porcelain tiles that lack texture and personality and read as lifeless are being swapped out for organic textures and natural stones. Those oversized, overly white, gray, and cool-toned porcelain tiles feel cold in bathrooms,' says Gabriela Eisenhart, founder and creative director at Silo Studio Design.

'We are noticing a gentle turning of the tide away from the once-ubiquitous pairing of white metro tiles and dark grey grout, a look that for years delivered crispness and order, yet now feels a little too rigid for the way we want bathrooms to feel today,' agrees Grazzie Wilson, head of creative at Ca’ Pietra, explaining that the stark contrast is the real issue at play.

So what should you choose instead? 'We typically renovate at least 10 bathrooms a year, and lately we are loving the use of zellige tiles, limestone, travertine, and quartzite,' suggests Gabriela.

'We are seeing a move towards bathrooms that feel softer, more grounded, and far more expressive in their materiality, where tiles are chosen not just for their shape, but for the way they hold color, texture, and light. There is a growing appetite for tonal spaces, where tile and grout sit closely together, allowing the surface to feel continuous rather than segmented,' adds Grazzie.

3. Geometric Patterns

There was a period where bathrooms became a haven for strong patterns, particularly where tiles were concerned. But designers say the era of bold geometrics is over, making way for more considered, classic tile layouts.

'Geometric and intricate pattern cement tiles. Cement tile is very porous and needs a special sealant. The pattern and look feel outdated, resembling a past trend,' says Maggie Goodrich of Third Street Architecture, noting 'Cement tiles aren't out; they are just evolving.'

'I would suggest going with a more organic shape that creates an interesting pattern once laid. Even mix different shapes and colors to create an interesting pattern, [like] a checkered pattern with different colors ranging from high contrast to a neutral contrast. These are all great ways to incorporate a cement tile that feels elevated.'

4. Tech-Filled Bathrooms

The spotlight has really been shining on analog spaces in 2026, and it's an ethos that is being carried into bathroom designs. Instead of filling your scheme with high-tech features (and in some cases, a wall-mounted TV!), trends are leading bathrooms to a more digital-free ethos.

The truth is, trends just aren't prioritising features that rely on tech that stops us from disconnecting. Instead, designers are seeing a clear shift towards spaces that prioritize spa-like spaces that prioritize sensory experiences and a calm atmosphere so you can truly disconnect.

'We’re seeing the rise of the ‘home spa’ bathrooms – wellness spaces designed to restore both body and mind and encourage disconnection. We actively design bathrooms as tech-free zones. As I often say, “our homes should be a retreat from the noise of the outside world,' says interior designer Juliette Byrne, who says the new focus is on 'soft lighting, calming colors, and thoughtful details like a place to sit, read, or simply pause.'

She continues: 'Ultimately, bathrooms are no longer just practical spaces; they’re becoming essential to how we recharge in 2026. Wellness in design is no longer a luxury; it’s an expectation, and clients are increasingly prioritising spaces that help them feel calm, grounded, and disconnected from the digital world.'

5. All-White Minimalism

It's no secret that interior design trends are moving away from all-white schemes, but it's particularly notable in bathrooms, where cold white rooms feel outdated and don't fulfill the warm, character-filled brief everyone is craving.

'We are fans of more is more and are seeing overly minimal, all-white bathrooms are on the way out for 2026. For years, bathrooms have leaned heavily into stark white palettes and ultra-minimal styling. While clean, they can feel clinical and lack warmth or individuality,' says designer Alex Alonso, founder of Mr Alex Tate.

'The shift is clear, bathrooms are becoming increasingly important design statements. Clients are embracing individuality, storytelling, and a sense of playfulness. We always encourage clients to move away from “safe” design and instead create spaces that feel deeply personal because that’s what ultimately makes a home timeless,' he explains.

While serene, spa-like spaces are trending, there's still plenty of space for bolder, more personalized designs if that's more your style. It's just about bringing those maximalist designs into your bathroom in the right way.

'Throw out thinking about safe, subtle wallpaper to create a calm space. Instead, bold, expressive wallpaper becomes the focal point of the room. We’re seeing a big shift toward graphic patterns, rich colour combinations, and designs that bring personality into the space, whether that’s Art Deco-inspired prints, mosaic-style patterns, or playful, layered motifs,' he explains.

6. Flat-Front Cabinetry and Vanities With No Detail

We've been talking a lot about kitchen cabinet details recently, from cutouts and backplates to pretty beaded trim designs. And it's a decorative element that's seeping into bathroom designs, hailing plain, flat-front vanities as outdated.

'Completely flat, handle-less cabinetry can feel a bit lifeless in a bathroom setting, especially in homes that otherwise have character,' says Cathleen Gruver of Gruver Cooley, who notes a shift towards something more visually interesting.

'Introduce subtle detailing like an interesting pull, reeded fronts, inset cabinetry, or even a furniture-style vanity. These elements add depth and craftsmanship without overwhelming the space,' she explains.

7. Overly Matching Schemes

We've probably all tried it – a bathroom filled with matching features, from color and material to every furniture piece coming from the same range, simply because it's easier and is guaranteed to match. But matching equals builder grade, and in 2026, it feels outdated.

'Bathrooms where every finish, metal, and material is identical are starting to feel overly coordinated and less curated,' Cathleen warns. Cohesion is key, but that doesn't mean you have to match everything.

'A more collected approach feels elevated. Mixing metals, incorporating vintage or antique elements, and layering textures creates a space that feels thoughtfully designed rather than overly prescribed,' she explains.

Shop Designer-Approved 2026 Bathroom Trends

Trends are shifting away from stark whites and flat finishes to designs that are filled with texture, warm tones, and visually interesting details. Trends are shifting towards personality and disconnection, creating a space that prioritizes wellness over fleeting styles.

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If you're embarking on a new bathroom color scheme anytime soon, why not consider the joys of pink before reaching for a palette of neutrals? While you may, understandably, have once written off this color as dated, designers are putting a modern spin on it, resulting in spaces that feel warm, soft, and slightly playful.

But instead of the bubblegum pinks or magentas of decades gone by, this bathroom color trend is all about nuanced and grounding shades of pink, which are calming, livable, and offer much more warmth and depth than neutrals.

Here, we've rounded up some of our favorite pink bathrooms to give you some decor inspiration. Whether you're looking for a rich and earthy pink to color-drench a powder room or a light, delicate shade that's just a step away from neutrals to soften this utilitarian room, these ideas have you covered.

1. Paint Walls a Grown-Up Plaster Pink

Decorating with plaster tones is one of the best ways to bring pink into a bathroom without it coming across as overly sweet or dated. Soft, dusky paint paints bring warmth and a sophisticated feel, while adding more depth than traditional neutrals.

Here, the interior designer Uns Hobbs used Farrow & Ball's Templeton Pink on the walls and panelling. 'It creates a cocooning, almost sun-warmed feeling in the room: relaxed but still lively,' says Uns. 'In the mornings, it feels gently energizing, and in the evenings it becomes much calmer and more atmospheric under artificial light.'

When using a pink paint like this one, using it on all the walls (and panelling in this case) creates a more modern look compared to using it as an accent color. 'The pink halfway up the wall would have made it feel decorative; carrying it across the walls and panelling makes the room feel intentional and immersive,' Uns explains. 'It softens the joinery, blurs the edges of the space. The result is a bathroom that feels considered and enveloping rather than bitty.'

2. Create a Whimsical Feeling With 'Barely There' Pinks

If you're looking for an alternative to neutral paints for a bathroom, the lightest, softest shades of pink – such as Paint & Paper Library's Plaster III, which was used here – are easy to live with and can read as a warm neutral rather than an obvious pink.

'This bathroom has a huge window, so using this pale pink makes the most of all the natural light that floods in,' says Ali Childs, founder of Studio Alexandra, who designed this bathroom for Glebe House. 'While the design is rooted in slightly eccentric English country style, it also has a Parisian sensibility with the black and white mosaic floor and vintage reclaimed floral basin and bath fittings.'

'The pale pink perfectly offsets the busyness of the florals and lets them sing, while the black and white floor adds a touch of the contemporary to keep it feeling modern,' says Ali.

3. Add Depth With a Deeper, Earthy Shade of Mauve

In smaller or lower light spaces like powder rooms, deeper shades of pink that read as mauve can be a great way to add impact and warmth. Here, the panelled walls were painted with Sherwin-Williams' Cocoa Berry, an earthy shade with brown undertones that gives it a contemporary feel.

'I love a pink bathroom: it's soothing but happy,' says the renowned interior designer Emily Henderson. 'I tend to prefer softer pinks or darker mauves, like in my powder bathroom. But any shade works with the right lighting and styling.'

4. Create a Playful Look With Blush Zellige Tiles

Pink bathrooms aren't just about painting the walls a rosy hue, but also colorful materials. Here, pink was added to the bathroom wall tiles, which brings richness and depth while adding a fun, unexpected look.

'Pink felt like the natural choice for this bathroom because the home’s original 1927 bath was pink, and we wanted to honor that history while maintaining the same playful, nostalgic mood,' says the designer Jennie Bishop of Chicago-based Bishop Studio.

'The zellige tiles were selected for their beautifully imperfect quality,' she adds. 'They feel casual and relaxed rather than precious or overly polished, which keeps the space from feeling too formal.'

5. Channel Pink in Unexpected Places

Farrow & Ball's Pink Ground is a pale blush pink which feels soft and calming. Here, it brings warmth to the room without feeling too bright or dark. 'This bathroom shows how a subtle wash of color can completely transform a space,' says the Houston designer Marie Flanigan.

'The soft pink tub becomes the focal point, while the nearly color-matched wall creates a gentle, layered effect that feels calm rather than overly bold,' she says. 'By echoing the tub’s hue on the walls, the color reads intentional and architectural instead of decorative. Infusing color in unexpected places – like a freestanding tub – adds personality while still feeling refined. It’s a playful way to introduce warmth and character into an otherwise serene, neutral bathroom.'

6. Pair Pink With Orange for a Colorful Look

In this bathroom, pink takes on a more colorful feel with the pop of orange. 'Playful pink pairs with the bold tangerine shade of the sink and the wallpaper's pops of graphic color for a fun and fresh feel that brings instant joy,' says the designer Michelle Morgan Harrison of Morgan Harrison Home.

'Pink doors, the tangerine sink with custom pink handles, a pink-shaded light fixture, and pink finishing details all come nicely together with a playful spirit,' she adds. 'Sometimes, more really is more in a small space.'

7. Create a Timeless Space With Warm Brass

When it comes to fixtures and fittings in pink bathrooms, brass is one of the most timeless options, complementing pink's warmth and setting a classic look. 'I am often drawn to pinks and feel like it works so well with polished brass, which we have used on the taps and shower head,' says the designer of this bathroom, Leonora Birts.

'I wanted this bathroom to be a calm and peaceful space,' she says. 'Because of its size, it couldn't be too busy. I think this tone of pink, mixed with an off-white (Farrow & Ball's Pointing) on the woodwork, really creates this sense of calm.'

8. Color-Drench Powder Rooms

Color-drenching is a stylish way to create a cohesive feel, and it's especially effective in small spaces such as powder rooms, making them feel considered and cozy. Here, Magnolia Home's Rosy Pink was used alongside a grasscloth wallpaper in a similar hue.

'Rosy pink sits in the red family, but it’s softened by adding that white, which makes it a warm, low-contrast color,' explains the designer Leslie Kramer of Lighthouse Home & Design. 'Warm colors feel close and enveloping, and when they’re diluted (like blush or dusty rose), they create a soft atmospheric effect rather than making the space feel small.'

9. Pair Soft Pinks With Warm Wood

'Pink has a reputation for being universally flattering, as many designers will attest,' says the designer Lynn Kloythanomsup of Landed Interiors, who used Benjamin Moore's Bridal Pink on the panelled walls here, along with wood tones to ground the room.

'We use wood as a neutral to counteract the color in our rooms,' says Lynn. 'The stained wood doors and vanity cabinet, brown stone vanity and tub counters, and cream penny tile on the floors act to neutralize a colorful space and bring it down a notch. This home also has elements of Arts and Crafts architecture, so exposed wood finishes are natural to the language of that style.'

10. Make a Statement With Pink Marble

Sophisticated and unexpected, this bathroom channels a pink marble sink and a whimsical floral wallpaper. 'The sink was fabricated from a custom pink marble, selected specifically for its soft tonal variation and subtle veining,' says the Houston-based designer Mary Patton. 'The natural stone adds depth and movement while still reading as refined and elegant.'

'Pink can often be perceived as playful, but when used in natural stone, it becomes incredibly elegant,' says Mary. 'The tone softens the space and creates a calming, slightly romantic atmosphere while still functioning as a statement moment in the room.'

'To complement the statement sink, I layered in a Gucci floral wallpaper for pattern and depth, and added custom Murano glass sconces for a soft, sculptural glow,' she adds. 'The combination creates a jewel-box moment that enhances the pink marble rather than competing with it.'

Elevate Your Pink Bathroom With These Decor Buys

Whether you're looking for some stylish decor to complement pink walls or are turning to smaller decor pieces to incorporate this hue more subtly, we've rounded up our favorite buys below.

With the right shade of pink and a thoughtful approach to texture, materials, and lighting, pink feels easy to live with and stylish. While pale, delicate pink paints work as a warmer alternative to the likes of white and gray, richer shades bring drama and depth, transforming bathrooms into considered spaces that don't shy away from making a statement.

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Benjamin Moore has revealed its best-selling paint colors specifically for the bathroom, and if you’re after a soothing, relaxing shade, the hunt is over. These top four are whisper-soft and pale without being bland.

We spoke with Helen Shaw, Director of Marketing at Benjamin Moore, and Arianne Barone, Color Marketing Manager, to find out how to decorate with these calming bathroom colors and why they are an endlessly popular choice.

Benjamin Moore's Most Popular Bathroom Colors

'These four shades are popular picks for bathrooms as they offer an innate sense of calm and wellbeing, transforming the space into a sanctuary,' explains Helen. 'Bathroom designs are increasingly geared towards comfort and relaxation, where a spa-like sanctuary is central, and every element is chosen to facilitate this as well as the room’s practical needs.'

'Soft, gentle colors paired with refined finishes make spaces feel serene and naturally confident, inviting you to pause and unwind,' she explains. 'Each of these shades, whether crisp white, pale gray, airy blue or soft sage, promotes a soothing atmosphere while keeping the space feeling open and welcoming.'

1. Simply White

Benjamin Moore's Simply White is an endlessly versatile, forever timeless white paint color that works in any bathroom, no matter its size.

'With just a whisper of warmth, Simply White has become a modern classic,' Helen explains. 'Celebrated for its clarity and ability to enhance natural light, this clean, crisp white keeps bathrooms feeling bright and fresh while remaining soft and welcoming rather than stark. Paired with veined marble and delicate metallic accents, it transforms a bathroom into a tactile, luxurious retreat reminiscent of a serene spa.'

Simply White works with a variety of finishes. Arianne Barone, Color Marketing Manager at Benjamin Moore, says, 'Simply White OC-117 is a brighter white paint color with a hint of warmth. Pair it with warmer neutrals and off-whites for a fresh but still welcoming look. Bring in weathered wood tones and creamy stone-inspired tile to lean into a more earthy, natural style.'

2. Angelica

Muted and gentle a touch romantic, Angelica, a pale lilac with gray undertones, is one of Benjamin Moore's most popular bathroom colors.

Helen says, 'This pale gray with a hint of lavender, Angelica, brings a gentle, spa-like calm to the bathroom. Gray tones with pink or purple undertones soften tiles and hard surfaces often found in bathrooms, adding warmth and subtle depth. Finish the look with sheer curtains that catch the light and touches of greenery for a refined, serene space.'

Angelica is subdued enough to uplift bathroom walls without dominating, making it one of the best colors for a small bathroom. Arianne adds, 'Angelica AF-655 is a pale gray with a delicate touch of lavender, bringing just the right amount of charm to a color palette. Pair it with beadboard, hand-painted tile and vintage finds to lean into a cottage look with cozy but eclectic appeal.'

3. Breath of Fresh Air

Breath of Fresh Air, Benjamin Moore's highly popular pale blue paint, loved for its subtlety, is highly versatile. A timeless pastel blue that complements traditional bathrooms and coastal bathrooms, it soothes, calms, and lifts.

Helen says, 'Breath of Fresh Air is a soft, airy blue that brings a refreshing energy to any bathroom. Perfectly paired with crisp white accents, it evokes a coastal-inspired feel. Light-filled spaces benefit especially from this hue, as its gentle undertones soften bright sunlight while creating a serene, restorative environment. Tongue-and-groove panelling, natural woodwork and textured floorboards add structure and warmth, grounding the palette without overwhelming the airy, nautical vibe.'

Arianne adds, 'Breath of Fresh Air 806 is a classic light blue paint color. It brings a breath of ease to any space. Pair it with natural linens, wicker accents, and fish scale tiles for a coastal look that emanates relaxation.'

4. Bassett Hall Green

A deep sage green that grounds a scheme, Bassett Hall Green is vibrant and muted all at the same time. Popular for its earthy feel, Bassett Hall Green brings a relaxed, organic feel to the bathroom.

Helen says, 'A sophisticated, modern sage green, Bassett Hall Green adds subtle color without overpowering the space. Its calming undertones make it ideal for creating a bathroom sanctuary, offering a fresh, fashionable alternative for those looking to experiment with color. This shade balances style and serenity, allowing the bathroom to feel both elegant and restorative. For decorating, pair it with warm neutrals and natural wood to create an organic, grounded look.'

While zingy green bathrooms can feel stark, Bassett Hall Green is popular due to its natural feel. Arianne adds, 'Basset Hall Green CW-480 is an earthy green that feels classic but still refreshing. Pair it with creamy whites, penny round tile and warm marbles for a more traditional look.'

From a classic crisp white to a romantic lilac, these four Benjamin Moore paint colors are the most popular choices for a reason.

'There is a versatility and softness to these four colors, which makes them very appealing for spaces like bathrooms that have hard surfaces – like tile,' Arianne says. 'When choosing a paint color for a bathroom, you need to make sure it works well with everything else in the space. All four of these colors take an easygoing approach to color, making them inherently adaptable. Most people want their bathrooms to feel calming and serene, and a cohesive color palette plays a key role in that.'

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People walk into my NYC bathroom and laugh. I’m not a particularly large person, but even I find the space uncomfortably small. From the toilet, you’re directly facing the sink, which is inches from the door on the left and a few more from the tub on the right. Counter space? Never heard of it.

So bathroom storage is a sore subject, but if I’ve learned anything living in New York, it’s that the only place to go is up – which is why our buildings are so tall, and why I’ve become obsessed with an organizational category on Amazon that uses almost no floor space but somehow unlocks a hidden-in-plain-sight area in my small bathroom that I’ve yet to tap: over-the-toilet.

While ‘over-the-toilet storage’ is quite possibly the least elevated, least sexy phrase I’ve ever typed, I have to say, these storage units are actually quite chic. Some are sleek, featuring large closed cabinets that look like built-ins, complete with open shelves for display pieces; others even have grand arches that give way to breezy rattan doors, turning something inherently unappealing into something unexpectedly beautiful.

I’ll be loading mine up with my ever-growing skincare and makeup collection, but even if you’re not dealing with quite the same spatial limitations, these units are just as good at clearing a slightly crowded counter elsewhere, beyond the bathroom.

I’m envisioning one in a laundry room (set over a large hamper, holding detergents and dryer sheets), or in a home office (over a small writer’s desk, corralling paper stacks, ink cartridges, pens, and perhaps the occasional cheeky 4 pm snack).

These over-the-toilet, over-furniture storage units, with their gorgeous custom built-in looks, are, without a doubt, something I would have purchased anyway – but with Amazon’s Big Spring Sale kicking off today (which, by the way, runs through March 31, even for non-Prime members), I am absolutely using this as an opportunity to snag this unexpectedly chic storage at a discount.

Over-the-Toilet Storage on Amazon

Three units I’m toying between below – and why I love each one.

Who knows? Maybe I’ll just take them all home and streamline every room.

Not that it hadn't occurred to me to install some shelves or bathroom cabinets, but as a renter, these freestanding, stilted solutions – lifting storage up and out of the way while carving out low-commitment real estate – feel like the smarter thing to buy during Amazon’s seven-day sales extravaganza this spring.

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Everyone seems to be craving a sense of tranquility in their bathrooms right now. A place to relax, unwind, and spend a bit of me time. And according to designers, bath nooks are the answer.

We instantly associate any nook ideas with coziness and relaxation, and it's no different in the bathroom. Transforming a corner or alcove of your space into a hidden bath space is the perfect way to create a more cocooning feel.

And it's a feature designers are frequently choosing over a luxury walk-in shower or a freestanding tub. Here's why a bath nook is the most coveted feature for 2026 and beyond, as well as plenty of inspiring ideas for creating one in your own home.

While a freestanding bath can feel like the ultimate luxury experience, there's no denying that there's something a bit exposing and cold about sitting in the middle of the room, with open space surrounding you.

Integrating it into a nook, however, gives you that same elevated experience, but in a cozier, more tranquil way. And it doesn't just work with freestanding baths, but built-in designs, too. It's that sense of retreat that designers say makes this upgrade all the more enticing.

'The appeal of a bath nook lies in creating a cocooning space to relax and unwind, turning the bathing area into a more intimate retreat within the home,' says Louise McGarry, Creative Director of Studio Braw.

'By tucking the bath into its own alcove, the design naturally frames the tub while making thoughtful use of the room’s footprint. This makes the space feel calm, considered, and effortlessly stylish, blending functionality with a spa-like sense of comfort.'

It's a look we've seen a lot of in small bathrooms to create a sense of bold design and zoning in a compact footprint, but it works just as well in larger schemes. 'There is something wonderfully comforting about a bath set into its own little corner,' agrees interior designer Hannah Llewelyn-Hughes.

'It feels sheltered and intentional, almost like stepping into a quiet alcove. Even in a larger bathroom, a nook brings intimacy and calm, which makes the whole experience of bathing feel more special,' she explains.

As well as being an assured way to create a calmer zone for relaxing and evening rituals, there's another benefit to bath nooks that you may not have considered. And it revolves around architecture.

'People are craving spaces that feel personal and restorative. We are far more conscious of how our homes support our daily rituals. A bath nook gives you that feeling of retreat without needing a vast room. It also introduces architectural interest, which many newer homes often lack, so it is a lovely way to add character,' Hannah adds.

There are a few things you need to consider if you want to create a bath nook that looks good and functions well.

'A well-designed bath nook starts with proportion and placement. The recess needs enough depth around the bath so the space does not feel cramped and room for ledges where items such as candles, books, or bathing products can sit comfortably,' says Keeley Sutcliffe, Design Manager at BC Designs.

You also need to consider the not-so-fun aspects of the design. Ventilation might not feel glamorous, but it needs some serious consideration if you want your bath nook to actually last.

'Think about access, cleaning, and ventilation,' says Adam Wollerton, Bathroom Design Manager at BK Eleven. 'Recessed spaces can trap moisture if not ventilated properly, and it is important to ensure that any ledges or shelves are positioned so they remain useful rather than becoming awkward gaps around the bath.'

If you get these things right at the beginning, the aesthetic elements can truly shine. As Adam explains: 'When those practical details are resolved early, a bath nook becomes one of the most characterful features in the room rather than just a stylistic gesture.'

5 Bath Nook Ideas To Create the Coziest Corner in Your Bathroom

If a bath nook sounds like the feature your bathroom is missing, look no further. Whether you have a freestanding tub or an alcove bath, here's how designers create these luxe spaces for the most relaxing retreat.

1. Utilize a Bay Window to Create a Bath Nook

If you have a bay window in your bathroom, it's the perfect place to create a bath nook – the architecture is already there for you. It will, of course, depend on how much space is available, but where there is enough depth, it can create a truly luxurious zone.

And this design by Marie Flanigan Interiors is a perfect example. The floor-to-ceiling bay window offers the perfect depth and width to place the bath, with wooden beams adding a lovely organic detail.

It's such a simple yet tranquil way to create a bath nook. You can enjoy the views as you relax (assuming there is enough privacy) and enjoy that cozy feel from the surrounding walls.

2. Add Character With Stripe Tiles

Creating a bath nook opens up a unique opportunity to get really playful with your design. If you want to create a true focal point in your bathroom, a classic pattern tile goes a long way.

In this bathroom by Studio Duggan, a green and white stripe pattern has been created along the outside of the nook, continuing around the bath for a tile-drenched look. It's bold and playful without overwhelming the small proportions of the room.

This is a great example of how to create a bath nook if your space doesn't have existing architecture to make it work. By adding a frame around your bathtub, you can instantly create that enclosed space without having to change the bones of the room.

3. Integrate Shelving For Bath Nook Storage

Designing a bath nook is more than just how you create the surrounding structure. You still need to consider practicalities like storage – after all, no one wants clutter surrounding them as they try to relax.

'Small practical touches such as a recessed shelf for oils or a ledge for a book make all the difference,' says Hannah, who designed recessed shelving into the wall of this bath nook to house a mix of essentials and decor.

Try to be considerate about what you keep on your bath nook shelves and how you display them. A tray, such as Target's Threshold™ New Traditional Ceramic Bath Tray, is great for keeping product bottles together in one place and creates a more considered look.

For other essentials like face towels and shower caps, baskets are essential for a tidier and more organized shelf. McGee & Co's Tatum Woven Laundry Basket comes in two sizes, the smaller being perfect for shelf storage.

4. Use Micro Cement for a Textured Finish

It's easy to get carried away with the visual elements of a bath nook, but you have to think about practicality, too. As such, choosing the right materials is key to a successful bath nook. It needs to be water-resistant while also looking good.

'Think about materiality,' Louise advises. 'Micro cement is a great option as it is one smooth, waterproof surface free of grout lines. This works particularly well on curved areas.'

It's not just micro cement that works well, but any material that easily adapts to curved silhouettes. 'Any sort of natural textures help to create the cave-like atmosphere – limestone or tumbled marble are also great options,' she explains.

5. Create the Illusion of a Nook With a Shower Curtain

If you don't have the existing architecture to create a bath nook, or if you don't have the means right now to add new structures, there are other ways to create the sense of a nook.

Don't underestimate the power of a well-designed shower curtain. Take this scheme as an example – the freestanding bath is located at the end of the bathroom, and by adding a shower curtain, a zoned nook has been created.

If you're going to try this method, you need to choose a high-quality shower curtain with a bit of pattern or texture to it. Something plain can fall a bit flat. Anthropologie is great for elevated designs, such as the Cotton Seersucker Shower Curtain featuring classic blue and white stripes or the Maeve Organic Cotton Ruffled Stripe Shower Curtain with a charming ruffle edge.

If you've been looking for ways to elevate your bathroom, this is your sign to upgrade to a bath nook. It's luxurious, tranquil, and adds a chic architectural feature to your scheme. And it's easier to add than you might have thought.

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When you think about it, a bathroom is the perfect place for a fireplace. It adds warmth and comfort, and can help to create an irresistibly cozy atmosphere that invites you to truly relax – and that is exactly what has been achieved in this beautiful bathroom redesign.

For interior designer Robin Bird, the fireplace was the starting point, becoming the focal point of the overall scheme. Paired with a reinvented layout and improved lighting, the room has been transformed from a vast, dark space to a bright, inviting retreat.

And it's proved to be the missing piece of the home's puzzle. Embracing the property's Spanish Ranch style and expertly bringing the natural landscape in, the design is a masterclass in getting a large bathroom right. Here's how she nailed the brief.

A large bathroom can feel like a true luxury, but it can also make a scheme trickier to design. It was certainly a point of contention in this bathroom – the spacious footprint required a thoughtful approach to layout.

'Its biggest issue was its large size, which was a problem the whole house had. Huge rooms with diminutive fixtures, out of proportion to their rooms, were jammed into the corners. This room with tiny windows felt deceptively claustrophobic for its enormous size,' explains designer Robin Bird.

Natural light was another element that needed attention – the surrounding woodland blocks light throughout the day, so paired with tiny windows, it made the home feel really rather dark and uninviting. But it's something Robin was quick to rectify during the redesign.

'Adding a panoramic shower window and a set of French doors to the porch was essential not only to let light in, but also to capture the beautiful nature surrounding the property,' she explains.

'All of the windows and doors were strategically placed to capture the coastal oaks and landscaping vignettes, so there was something beautiful to look at through every window, whether or not the sun was out.'

Bathroom color choices played a crucial role in the design, used to emulate the surrounding landscape while also creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere that felt sympathetic to the home's style and architecture.

'In this particular space, the art above the fireplace – a watercolor by Sofia Mitsola called Sarcotub – was my main color inspiration, along with the woodland outside. Art in general really influences how I design a space, and this bathroom is a prime example,' Robin explains.

'In the art, I see a hardworking woman sinking deep into a bathtub chamber of utter contentment. And I wanted that feeling for the whole room. The zellige tile on the floor and shower walls pulls greens, blues, browns, and golds, which complement the richer wood tones in the space,' she continues.

'The warm white wall color, use of plaster, as well as the wooden doors, vanities, trim, and baseboards are all consistent throughout the house and help keep a cohesiveness even if the tile color or patterns change from room to room. The art pulls in all the room's colors but doesn't distract from the nature outside.'

The artwork takes pride of place in the bathroom, perched atop a statement fireplace – a feature Robin describes as non-negotiable, with the whole design revolving around its success. 'Once I'd decided that the fireplace and a tub facing it were a 'must', it gave me the parameters I needed to fit in everything else.'

But if there's one thing that truly stands out in this design, it's the unrivaled sense of symmetry – most notable in the vanity area, where two wooden units flank the fireplace – that instantly captures the eye, creating a balanced and visually appealing finish. And it's a detail that was entirely intentional.

'I primarily gravitate towards older homes where there is a constant play of symmetry vs asymmetry. But in this space, whether it was a reaction from how the room looked before, I didn't want your eye to fall on a "quirk" or to have one thing hold your attention. I wanted your eye to fall on the entire space and have a harmony to it,' Robin explains.

There's no single feature that stands out in the design for Robin, rather the combination of many and the way the room makes you feel. 'I love the tile – its variations, how it plays against the light with all its imperfections, and how it brings the outside in. And the things a picture can't capture,' she construes.

'The bathroom has radiant heat, which is always cranked on. Coming in from the sauna or hot tub on a cold day to the fireplace crackling quietly and dogs asleep on the warm floor. That's my idea of a perfect experience and the height of luxury.'

This redesigned bathroom ticks all the boxes: well-suited to the home, complementary to the landscape, and filled with just the right amount of character and personality. It also makes a strong case for adding a statement fireplace to a bathroom.

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I spend a lot of time speaking to interior designers about small spaces, especially bathrooms, where extra care and attention are required to balance sufficient storage with visual appeal.

And as open storage is always championed in compact spaces, I thought I'd experiment by using only open solutions to see what works and what doesn't. And it's fair to say, I learned a lot about small bathroom storage from the process.

These are all the open bathroom storage solutions I tried, and months down the line, the ones that have proved essential and those that didn't quite meet the mark. Spoiler alert – you really do need a mix of open and closed storage for the best results.

3 Open Storage Solutions I Tried in My Small Bathroom

My small bathroom has always lacked built-in storage. Other than a recessed medicine cabinet, the only place I had to keep products and essentials was on the windowsill or a ledge behind the toilet.

'People often don’t plan properly for storage in bathrooms, and leaving space for it wherever possible is really important,' says interior designer Laura Stephens. 'People often end up stacking toiletries on the countertop or in corners, which looks untidy and can make everyday routines more frustrating.'

And clutter was certainly becoming an issue in my space, so I tried a few open storage options before committing to more built-in solutions. And although I made a few small bathroom storage mistakes, there are some I would never want to be without again.

Stayed: Wall Shelves Beside the Bath

My open storage experiment began with my shower area. I have an over-bath shower, and without a built-in niche or ledge, my products end up lining the perimeter of the tub. It's not functional, nor does it look organized.

I've seen a lot of people have success with shelving that hangs over the shower head, like this Flex Wall Mounted Optional Shower Caddy from Wayfair, but I don't have the right shower fixture for this to work, so I opted for floating shelving on the wall at the end of my bath instead.

I love the look of glass shelves with brass fixtures, so I installed Anthropologie's Nellie Shelf, which comes in three sizes, on the narrow wall next to my bathroom window, and it's been such a success. It's the perfect size to hold my most-used shower products without looking overfilled or messy, and it's away from the water flow while still being easy to reach.

I also love glass shelving because it not only looks elegant, but it's so easy to clean. Even purple shampoo rings wipe away easily without leaving a trace. This open storage solution is perfect for small bathrooms, as long as you have the wall space at the far end of your shower or bath. Needless to say, this one stayed!

Failed: Open Vanity Design

I've seen so many beautiful small schemes that feature a bathroom vanity with open shelving rather than closed cabinet storage, and I immediately wanted to try it in my own scheme to utilize the space below my sink, especially as designers usually advise against cabinet doors in a compact space.

'Limited space means every element has to work hard. Vanity doors that swing open can interrupt movement, create awkward moments, and make the room feel cramped,' explains Melissa Hutley, co-founder of Hutley & Humm.

But while this approach did work from a functional perspective, it didn't quite live up to expectations aesthetically. The vanity really has to work hard in my small bathroom, and it quickly created a more cluttered look, despite attempts at elevating it with pretty woven baskets.

And it's an open storage attempt I was quick to fix, with some designer guidance. 'A simple solution is to add a curtain under the vanity, with shelves behind. It’s an easy, flexible way to add storage at any stage, keeping the space tidy without sacrificing style,' says Carina Raymond, founder of Studio Raymond.

If you do prefer easy-to-access closed storage, small bathrooms work much better with drawer-focused vanities. 'Choosing drawers over doors for vanity units is another simple but effective tweak too, it improves accessibility, organisation, and overall flow in the room,' Melissa notes.

Stayed: Wall-Mounted Towel Rack

I've always wished I had somewhere to store towels in my bathroom. I've seen some people keep them in a vanity or a freestanding unit – I distinctly remember my grandmother's floor-to-ceiling bathroom cupboard that kept towels perfectly warm.

But I don't have space for anything like this, so I instead looked for open storage that allowed me to keep bath, hand, and face towels nearby. And it turns out, wall-mounted designs are the perfect towel storage idea.

'One solution is to fit a smaller heated towel rail above a wall-mounted toilet. This keeps the rail off the floor, maximises circulation space, and removes any hazard in a tight bathroom,' says Melissa.

My toilet sits below a sloped ceiling, but I had the perfect wall space behind my bathroom door for a wall-mounted towel rack. After a lot of shopping, I chose Rejuvenation's Riley Train Rack with Double Towel Bars in Aged Brass, and I'm so happy I did.

I love that I can keep my towels rolled up on the rack above, and also hang the towels currently in use on the bars beneath. It's become a really hardworking feature in my bathroom, and it creates a luxury hotel feel. It's probably the open storage solution I've had the most compliments on, too.

While not everything was successful, I learnt a lot from trying to only use open storage in my small bathroom. More things worked well than I expected – it was really only the bathroom vanity that failed. Take note from designers and embrace drawers for closed storage, or add a sink skirt to conceal shelves filled with essentials, as I did. It's a small, and generally affordable, swap that transforms the look of your small bathroom.

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With a chronic hip and foot issue, slipping is the last thing I need. That’s why I’m finally saying goodbye to my slippy bath mat and replacing it with a hygienic, fast-drying stone mat that looks gorgeous to boot.

The Dorai Stone Bath Mat from Amazon is a bit pricier than a fabric or towel option, but it comes with a host of benefits, including improved hygiene, rapid drying, firm non-slip functionality, and long-term durability.

It’s a great, natural way to reduce toxic items in your bathroom, as it’s made from diatomaceous earth and recycled paper.

Why I’m Switching to a Stylish Stone Bath Mat

I do my laundry multiple times a week, and always include my toweling bath mats. Even then, they often come out of the wash smelling musty. My rubber-backed microfiber ones that don’t slip cannot go in the dryer, and so drying them without that 'wet dog' smell in the winter and early spring is a continued problem. The ones without the rubber backing slip. It’s been a lose-lose situation in my bathroom for a while now. Plus, I don’t really like how they look.

With a connective tissue disorder that means I can easily dislocate my joints if I slip, and a chronic hip and foot problem that is particularly painful, any slip after showering can seriously injure me, so it’s time for a fix.

That’s why I am switching to a different material, and after reading hundreds of reviews and listings, I have settled on the chic Dorai Stone Bath Mat from Amazon, which measures 23.6 x 15.4 x 0.4 inches, and is perfect in my family bathroom and my tiny en suite shower room.

It’s Made from Sustainable, Natural Materials

Its natural materials reduce the chance of introducing toxic plastic or synthetic fibers into bathrooms, but also, the diatomaceous earth component makes it naturally anti-pest and more antibacterial than others. Not to mention, it’s a great way to create a non-toxic home.

Diatomaceous earth is a material that is formed naturally over millions of years, from the silica shells of tiny algae called diatoms. These are now mined and crushed into a powder, and have many modern uses, including pest control inside and outside the house.

With these bath stone mats formulated with this material and recycled paper, they are sustainable, and come with a host of useful properties:

• Naturally fast drying: Water hits millions of microscopic holes, allowing easy and fast evaporation. It’s touch-dry in seconds and fully dry in minutes. Towels and microfiber can not compete with this speed and convenience.
• Non-toxic: The materials are free from plastics, PFAs, and other microplastics that can leach off into the environment.
• Hygienic: The diatomaceous earth, though harmless to humans, is like millions of tiny shards for microscopic germs or larger pests. It slices up the cell’s casing, or an insect's outer armor, and dehydrates it and disrupts its nervous system, causing death. That’s why these types of stone mats are more hygienic than towels or synthetic fibers. You can still clean it, but use the manufactuer advises to hand wash only. For regular cleaning, rinse in the bathtub or shower with warm water. Spritz with diluted hydrogen peroxide occasionally, and use the included sandpaper to buff the surface to remove stains and restore absorbency.
• Stylish: Bath stone mats are chic, minimalist, and lend a sense of stylish texture to any bathroom without adding bulk or unhygienic materials that are prone to mold, mildew, or bathroom smells.

What Shoppers Love About These Stone Bath Mats

More than 70% of verified shoppers on Amazon for this product rate it five stars, with thousands of positive reviews. One called this product ‘life changing’, remarking on how fast it absorbs water from your feet, and that it doesn’t have any bacteria or mold buildup after a year of use.

Others, including Jennifer ,C note how it ‘makes you feel like you’re at a spa.’ She adds, ‘Sleekest bathmat around, makes you feel like you’re at a spa! I bought this during Black Friday, so I got it for a good price. It’s slip-resistant and fits perfectly in my small bathroom. It was my first time using a bath stone, and I won’t go back. It also dries up the water instantly.’

Others call it a ‘super absorber’, ‘hygienic’ and ‘quick-drying’, with the latter stating it’s a ‘great upgrade from traditional mats.’

One considered shopper remarked in their five-star review that the ‘high quality’ has withstood the test of time, and after a year of constant use, they have sanded it lightly once, which buffed its surface right up, speaking to its ability to stay in good shape in the longer term with minimal maintenance.

What to Shop

Having a non-slip bathmat not only makes your bathroom safer for all members of your household and for guests, but also adds a stylish, modern touch to this hard-working area of the home.

Here are some alternatives to consider, as well as useful non-toxic bathroom swaps and items that are highly functional, better for your home, and the planet.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

For more ways to be sustainable at home, and use less harsh chemicals, delve into our top non-toxic cleaning products, and the signs you need to switch to non-toxic laundry detergents.

There's nothing like sharing one small bathroom between three people to teach you a lesson or two on how to get the storage situation right. And I've made plenty of mistakes during my communal living that I never want to repeat.

The truth is, a small bathroom is only as good as its storage – it's crucial to how well your scheme functions, but also how it looks. No one wants a cluttered, overfilled bathroom that looks the opposite of relaxing.

And I learned that the hard way. These are the small bathroom storage mistakes I've made and what they taught me, and how you can easily fix them if you're making the same errors I did. I promise, it's easier to rectify than you might think.

4 Small Bathroom Storage Mistakes to Avoid

It's easy to lose sight of the storage options that work best in a small bathroom, so it helps to learn from other people's mistakes to fix your own. Here's the faux pas I made, and that designers see all too often, and the best ways to fix them.

1. Not Having a Vanity

Floor space in my small bathroom was really limited, so we stuck to a pedestal sink instead of a larger bathroom vanity unit and let the medicine cabinet do all the heavy lifting. And honestly? It was perhaps the biggest small bathroom storage mistake we could have made.

'One common mistake in a small bathroom is choosing a basin on a frame rather than a vanity unit. Vanities provide essential storage under the basin, which is so much more practical in a small bathroom,' says interior designer Laura Stephens. 'Without adequate storage, bathrooms quickly become cluttered, making a small space feel even smaller and less functional.'

There are lots of ways to work around a small footprint and still make space for a vanity. One option is to opt for a shallower unit, like the Kamiaya Walnut Single Bathroom Vanity from Wayfair, which has a reduced depth of 17.7", freeing up walkway space.

You could opt for open storage beneath the sink, too. 'If you prefer something less solid, you can add a sink skirt around your basin and create shelves underneath, saving space without compromising style,' suggests Laura.

2. Using the Edge of the Bath as Shower Storage

Like many common bathroom designs, we didn't have any proper storage around the shower, which meant various product bottles were stacked around the perimeter or the alcove bath that often created a domino effect of falling bottles every time you tried to reach for something.

'Without proper storage, bathrooms quickly become cluttered. Bottles end up on shower floors, and temporary trolleys or baskets take up valuable space, making a small room feel even tighter and less calm,' says Sophie Pringle of Pringle & Pringle. 'Shower or bath niches are essential, particularly if there isn’t room for a ledge.'

If you are in the process of designing a small bathroom, making space for a niche or ledge in the shower is a great move to help create dedicated storage space. However, if you are looking for a solution in an existing scheme, some alternative options are much easier to implement.

For an affordable, renter-friendly solution, this Brass Over The Shower Storage from Target adds plenty of space to store shower products and hooks over your showerhead. I also love a bath caddy for shower storage that looks more intentional – McGee & Co's Pickens Rattan Bath Caddy is a personal favorite.

3. Relying On Cabinets Rather Than Drawers

The most popular ways to add storage to a small bathroom are through cabinetry. Whether it's vanity cabinets or medicine cabinets, it's always some sort of cupboard with shelves inside. But I realized quite quickly that drawers are often more useful and space-friendly, yet something I lacked completely previously.

'In small bathrooms, a common storage mistake is relying on doors in vanity units rather than drawers. Doors need space to swing open, which can be tricky in a compact layout and often means someone has to crouch or step back to access items,' says Melissa Hutley, co-founder at Hutley & Humm.

'Drawers, on the other hand, are much more user-friendly and you can stay standing while reaching for toiletries, and everything is neatly organised within easy reach,' she explains.

A bathroom vanity with drawers is the best option to maximize storage in a small space, and for an elevated look, Anthropologie's Spindle Single Bathroom Vanity is a timeless choice. For additional storage options, consider adding something like this Bamboo Rolling Organizer from Wayfair.

4. Not Utilizing Empty Nooks

Even small bathrooms have awkward nooks that can be utilized, especially above the toilet. My biggest error was not using this area better – it was relatively tall, so it would have been perfect for some shelving or even a cabinet. And it's a small bathroom storage mistake designers see all too often.

'One of the most common mistakes is not providing enough storage above the toilet. These areas are often overlooked but can be incredibly useful in a compact bathroom,' says Carina Raymond, founder of Studio Raymond.

'The alcove above is a fantastic opportunity to install closed shelving – perfect for storing extra toilet roll, products, and other essentials out of sight,' she adds. Something as simple as adding a shelf, like this Glass Shelf with Gallery Rail from Rejuvenation, doubles the storage space above your toilet without getting in the way.

If you have the space, you can also find taller storage units that sit above the toilet and create so much space for essentials, whether it's toilet rolls, towels, cleaning supplies, or overflow products. IKEA's FRÖSJÖN Over-the-Toilet Shelf is a great, affordable option, or consider Anthropologie's Fern Wood Arch Wall Cabinet for a chicer look.

Sometimes we become so focused on the small proportions of our bathrooms that we lose sight of the opportunities for new storage solutions. My key takeaway from sharing a small bathroom is to look at the awkward corners and untapped zones to see how they can work harder.

We’ve loved seeing small bathroom design trends shift toward being braver and bolder with color. However, not all hues are suited to small spaces, and designers warn that some shades are best avoided when square footage is limited.

While small spaces might sometimes feel awkward or tricky to perfect, often, powder rooms or small bathrooms are the perfect place to harness your creativity. Pocket-sized in the best possible way, embracing a rich, earthy paint color creates a statement that instantly invites guests inside.

While there are plenty of colors you can count on to bring your small bathroom to life, some bathroom colors have the opposite effect. Adam Wollerton, Design Manager at BK Eleven says, 'The colors that tend to work least well in small bathrooms are those that feel either too stark or too busy, because they exaggerate the room’s limitations rather than easing them.'

1. White

It comes as no surprise that stark whites have been left out of this year's bathroom color trends. A shade that tends to feel cold, they don't do small bathrooms any justice.

Lauren Rasken, founder of Lauren A Balkan Designs, explains, 'The worst colors for a small bathroom are stark, cool-toned whites. While pure white is often assumed to make spaces feel larger, it can read flat and clinical, exaggerating shadows and making small rooms feel colder and more cramped.'

Keeley Sutcliffe, Design Manager at BC Designs, agrees, 'Stark, bright white is often assumed to be the safest option for a small bathroom, yet it can be one of the most unforgiving choices in a confined setting. In compact rooms, white tends to exaggerate shadows, corners and changes in plane, which makes the space feel more clinical and less comfortable to use on a daily basis. Under artificial lighting, it can also take on a harsh tone that strips the room of any sense of warmth or softness.'

You don't have to avoid all white paints, just look for colors with a little warmth and richness. Lauren explains, 'Instead, warm white, soft ivories and beige-toned materials, paired with layered lighting and natural textures, reflect gently and create the illusion of space without sacrificing warmth.'

2. Pale Grays

While some of the darker hues among the best gray paints might work in a small bathroom, cooler-toned grays lacking depth are best avoided.

Interior designer Nina Litchfield explains, 'On the flip side, the biggest mistake I see is people defaulting to flat grays or cold, "dull" whites in an attempt to make the room feel larger. When you combine those tones with the bright white task lighting typical of bathrooms, the result is often quite sterile and, honestly, a bit unbearable to spend time in.'

Interior designer Millie Turner agrees, 'I also tend to steer away from very cool, stark grays, which can feel gloomy and uninviting under artificial lighting.' Whether you're injecting some character into a powder room or redesigning you en suite shower room, always aim to create contrast, explains Millie. 'More than any specific shade, what I try to avoid is a lack of contrast. When everything is one pale tone, walls, vanity and floor, a small room can feel flat and undefined. Even in a lighter scheme, I will always bring in depth through cabinetry, hardware or pattern so the space still feels considered and layered.'

3. Black

Dark paint colors are ideal for making a room feel snug, but it's worth knowing that when it comes to decorating with black, that rule doesn't always apply. Not only can the shade be tricky to style, it can also make a small bathroom feel even smaller.

It's sometimes thought black is a color that makes a bathroom looks more expensive, but in a confined space, it can only emphasise its smaller proportions, giving the eye little to focus on. Grazzie Wilson, Head of Creative at Ca’ Pietra, explains, 'Flat black can feel heavy and uncompromising in a small bathroom, particularly when applied across large areas without relief.'

She adds, 'In compact spaces, black tends to absorb light aggressively, which can make the room feel compressed and demanding unless the proportions, lighting, and finishes are very carefully handled. Without texture or tonal variation, it often lacks the nuance needed to work comfortably at close quarters.'

Decorating with a moody color palette isn't a total no-go though, Grazzie explains, 'While darker shades can be successful when they have warmth or movement, a uniform black surface risks feeling severe, making fittings and junctions stand out too sharply and drawing attention to the room’s limited scale rather than softening it.'

4. Overly Saturated Hues

Colorful bathrooms are a joy to get ready in, but always keep in mind that overly saturated tones can dominate small spaces and only emphasize the room's confines.

Nina explains, 'I’d also be wary of colors that are too oversaturated or neon. While I love a bold choice, a color that is too "loud" can quickly become claustrophobic when it’s bouncing off four walls in a tight space. It’s all about finding that balance between a "pop" of personality and a color that actually feels lived-in.'

Adam agrees that while some colors make a bathroom feel happy, others are best avoided in smaller spaces. 'Highly saturated brights, such as strong reds, yellows or electric blues, can also be problematic in small bathrooms because they dominate the space very quickly and can feel intense to live with on a daily basis. While these colors can look appealing in small doses, using them across large areas often creates a sense of pressure rather than personality, and they can be difficult to balance with fittings and finishes without the room starting to feel disjointed.'

Helen Shaw, Marketing Director at Benjamin Moore, adds, 'It is also important not to choose a paint color that recasts light in an artificial or unflattering way – colors such as bright blues, greens, and yellows can have this effect and can cause problems when applying make-up or grooming.'

5. Cool Blues & Greens

Not all pale blue paints are a no-go in small bathrooms, but cooler tones are best avoided if you want a space that feels bigger than it is.

Helen explains, 'As bathrooms are full of hard surfaces from tiles and mirrors to fixtures, it’s best to steer clear of strong shades with cool undertones.'

Interior designer Leonara Birts adds, 'I think with bathrooms, you have to avoid cold colors. Bathrooms should be inviting spaces you want to be able to relax in. Certain shades of blues or greens can feel quite cold.'

If you're a lover of pastel schemes, try warmer pinks or blues instead, advises Leonora. 'I tend to go for either neutral palettes or softer pinks and blues alongside cream on the woodwork, making sure you add some pretty fabrics to the room in the blinds, gathered shades or chair cushions and good levels of lighting (no spots!) that can be dimmable.'

While cooler tones and overly saturated brights are best avoided in small bathrooms, plenty of other shades are worth considering. Whether it's a moody jewel tone or an organic, earthy hue, opting for colors with depth will instantly make a compact bathroom feel more inspiring.

When I decided to paint my small bathroom a dark, chic color, I knew I was leaning into a bold trend. Chic, moody bathrooms had been filling my feed for months, promising cocooning comfort and hotel-level drama in even the most compact spaces.

So despite my small bathroom and its limited natural light, I caved and reached for a rich, burgundy red shade instead of playing it safe. What I didn’t realize at the time was that while the dark bathroom trend absolutely delivers on style, it also comes with a bit of a learning curve.

At first, this small bathroom color idea felt like a design win. The room instantly felt more cocooning, more impactful –⁠ a tiny space with big personality. But here's the thing: dark paint amplifies mistakes just as much as it elevates a space.

What I Wish I'd Known Before Painting My Small Bathroom Dark

As Helen Shaw, director of marketing at Benjamin Moore, explains, compact bathrooms, like a powder room or petite master bathroom, can actually benefit from going dark.

'In small bathrooms that don’t have much natural light, dark, rich colors like plum, deep green, or navy blue can create an instantly immersive, cocooning effect,' she explains. 'Painting walls, cabinetry, and even bathroom furniture in the same hue amplifies the drama and gives the space a seamless, sophisticated look.'

'Don’t be afraid to embrace the proportions of a small room by using darker shades in a color-drenched scheme,' agrees Ruth Mottershead, Creative Director at Little Greene. 'Whilst color drenching can’t make a small room larger, it can embrace the size of the space and create something that feels intimate and cocooning,' she continues. 'By painting the ceiling, walls, and woodwork in the same shade, there are no stark color contrasts to draw the eye to the ceiling line, creating the illusion of space and height in a room, providing a beautiful, cohesive backdrop.'

So, as Helen and Ruth suggest, instead of making the room feel smaller, color drenching the walls and woodwork in a rich color blurred the edges of my bijoux space and helped to create a sense of calm. Just the impact I was trying to make.

Patrick O’Donnell, brand ambassador at Farrow & Ball, echoes this, noting that 'Dark shades are surprisingly effective in a poorly lit room, as darker walls tend to recede. It can also create a wonderful backdrop to pictures on the wall, allowing them to register in a new light.'

He adds that even nuanced blacks, such as Railings by Farrow & Ball, and deep browns can feel smart and sophisticated, while earth tones bring warmth and tranquillity without overwhelming the space. 'Browns as a color family are making a comeback and will make a beautiful, elegant statement in any room, but especially smaller rooms. Often, they add warmth and work effortlessly with pinks, greens, and blues,' Patrick recommends.

In short, my burgundy paint choice itself wasn’t the problem –⁠ it was how that paint behaved that I'd not been forewarned about.

Here’s the part no one really talks about: once you go dark, lighting becomes everything. Suddenly, my single overhead light wasn’t cutting it. The room looked flat in the morning, overly dramatic at night, and wildly different depending on where the light hits the walls.

Plus, the lighting highlighted every imperfection in sight,⁠ which was all down to my too flat choice of paint finish. Instead, I should've gone glossy.

'For a truly luxurious feel, opt for a semi-gloss or high-gloss paint finish,' Helen recommends. 'The reflective quality of these finishes adds not only highlights architectural details or panelling, but also adds depth and enhances the sense of space.'

'While selecting the perfect color might seem like the ultimate factor in achieving your desired look, choosing the correct finish is equally important,' Ruth adds.

'When painting small spaces, carefully consider how natural light interacts with your color palette,' she advises. 'Our Intelligent Gloss, with its high sheen level of 87–90%, offers a glamorous, high-gloss finish, will dramatically transform a space with unique light-reflectance and fabulous richness of color.'

Additionally, pairing bathroom lighting thoughtfully with different paint finishes can completely transform how the room looks and feels, as Hollie Moreland, creative director at David Hunt Lighting, explains.

'Gloss finishes will catch light and reflect it, bringing a sense of glamour to the space, while matt surfaces will absorb light, creating depth and calm,' Hollie explains. 'For glossier surfaces, position spotlights that lightly skim the walls, as opposed to hitting them directly, which will softly illuminate the surface for added drama.'

'For matte surfaces, consider installing double wall lights with frosted bulbs that will gently bathe the matte surface in light, creating a cocooning and ambient effect,' Hollie advises. 'And in color-drenched spaces, considered use of light is paramount.'

'In a small, dark bathroom, carefully considered lighting can create a gorgeous interplay of shadow and light, delivering a beautifully intimate setting,' she continues. 'Layering different light sources, such as wall lights, pendants, or flush ceiling lights or illumination on either side of your mirror, will create a soft, atmospheric effect.'

In the end, painting my small bathroom a dark color wasn’t a mistake –⁠ I was just missing a few key ingredients to really make it shine.

The shade itself delivered exactly what the trend promises: depth, drama, and a cocooning feel that makes the space far more inviting than it ever was before. But it also reminded me that bold choices demand a little more thought, especially in compact rooms.

Despite the learning curve, I don’t regret going dark. If I were to do it again, I’d plan my lighting scheme better before opening a paint tin and consider my paint finish more carefully. The good news is that in hindsight, I can repaint with a glossy top coat and add in some rechargeable sconces to really lift the space without any need for new wiring.

There's an outdated 'rule' that seems ingrained when it comes to choosing colors for small bathrooms. Beige, white, even a pale gray, all 'safe' choices. The aim is always lighter, brighter, bigger. But as small bathroom decor becomes less purely practical and more playful, the color options are becoming bolder too.

Whether it's a downstairs powder room or a small main bathroom, these bijoux spaces are perfect for experimenting with colors, and actually choosing something other than a neutral can make the space feel bigger. As interior designer Millie Turner says, 'I’m a big believer that small bathrooms can handle more, not less, when it comes to color. They are the perfect place to be braver and more expressive than you might be in a large living area or bedroom.'

Inspired by the latest bathroom color trends as well as long-loved hues that will always be timeless, these are the six best colors for even the smallest bathrooms. If you prefer traditional design or a more striking contemporary space, there's something here for every space, regardless of its size.

1. Yellow

Yellow is undeniably a bold choice. Cheery and always inspiring, it's no wonder its more understated counterpart, 'butter' made an impactful debut last year. Whether you're going down the safe (but trendy) route of butter or lemon or embracing sunnier shades like ochre or mustard, yellow bathrooms have a unique charm that's guaranteed to uplift your small bathroom.

Typically, using yellow without overwhelming a home can be hard, but it couldn't be easier in a small space like a bathroom. Take the space (pictured above) designed by interior designer Nina Litchfield as proof. 'I’ve always felt that small bathrooms shouldn’t be treated with caution, she explains, 'they are actually the perfect place to get a bit playful. Because the footprint is limited, you can create a really immersive, "jewel box" experience.'

Nina adds, 'Especially here in London, where the sky can stay quite grey, stepping into a bathroom with warm, vibrant tones is such a mood booster. I love a monochromatic approach that uses different textures.'

2. Inky blues

Long-loved for a reason, a traditional-leaning inky blue is a clever choice for a small bathroom color. Rich enough to add depth yet mid-toned enough not to overwhelm, it's a fail-safe choice for a powder room or narrow shower room. Millie says, 'I’m particularly drawn to deeper mid-tones in compact bathrooms, colors like inky blues, olive greens, earthy reds. In a small bathroom, these tones do not make the space feel smaller in a negative way, instead they make it feel intentional, enveloping and properly designed rather than purely practical.'

Keeley Sutcliffe, Design Manager at BC Designs, agrees. 'A deep, inky blue works particularly well in a small bathroom because it softens the edges of the room rather than trying to push them outward, which can often feel forced in compact spaces.'

She adds, 'When blue has depth and warmth to it, it absorbs light gently and creates a more immersive atmosphere, allowing the eye to settle instead of constantly registering boundaries and corners. This can make a smaller bathroom feel calmer and more composed, especially when the colour is used across walls and joinery rather than as an isolated feature.'

3. Off-whites

Warm enough to make a bathroom feel less sterile yet still enduringly timeless and neutral in nature, off-whites will always be a wise choice for small spaces.

The beauty of working with neutrals is their reliability; using the best off-white paints will ensure your small bathroom remains not only stylish, but stands through the coming and going of trends. Helen Shaw, Marketing Manager at Benjamin Moore, explains, 'Creamy whites and soft greys are safe choices if you are looking for a more neutral look in a small bathroom; however, this does not mean you have to eliminate bright colors altogether. Opt for a pop of color on bathroom cabinets or accessories to lift the space.'

Despite stereotypes, neutral bathrooms are far from boring, they're classic. Adam Wollerton, Design Manager at BK Eleven, explains, 'When working with a compact bathroom, color needs to work harder than it does in a larger space, not by disappearing, but by shaping how the room feels to be in over time. Soft, nuanced tones tend to perform best, particularly those with warmth or complexity, because they stop the space feeling stark while still allowing light to move around the room.'

Adam suggests, 'Off-whites with a gentle undertone, such as chalky creams, stone or putty shades, create a sense of openness without the coldness that pure white can bring.'

4. Terracotta

Terracotta paint might sound bold, but with irresistible warm and cocooning qualities, it's an appealing color choice for a small bathroom.

Whether it's pink-toned Persimmon by Benjamin Moore or the warmer, red Kalahari Sunset by Behr, terracotta is surprisingly versatile. Grazzie Wilson, Head of Creative at Ca’ Pietra, says, 'A warm terracotta tone can be surprisingly effective in a small bathroom because it brings depth and character without overwhelming the space, particularly when the color carries a softened, earthy quality rather than reading as bold or rustic.'

She adds, 'In smaller rooms, this kind of warmth helps counteract cooler light conditions and creates a sense of enclosure that feels welcoming rather than closed in. When used through tiles with subtle variation, the color gains richness without becoming dominant, allowing the room to feel layered and considered.'

5. Aubergine

'The best colors for a small bathroom are often saturated hues,' says Lauren Rasken, founder of Lauren A Balkan Designs. 'Whether dark or light, such as Farrow & Ball’s aubergine-toned Brinjal (pictured in the powder room above) or Benjamin Moore’s mauve-toned Amethyst Sky. Painting both the walls and ceiling in a soft satin finish creates a cohesive, enveloping effect that transforms the space into something chic and intimate.'

The perfect place to be brave with jewel tones, you can transform a small bathroom into a pocket of unexpectedness by opting for a vivid, deeply saturated paint like aubergine. Interior designer Anna Haines advises, 'Very dark colors can work beautifully in a small bathroom, but often need reflective surfaces like using a gloss finish, mirrors, or considered lighting to help bounce light around the room and prevent it from feeling too enclosed.'

Helen agrees. 'In smaller bathrooms that don’t benefit from much natural light, dark colors can be a particularly impactful choice, creating an immersive cocooning feeling. For the ultimate design statement, combine with a lustrous, high gloss finish to create a look that oozes opulence. Painting bathroom furniture and cabinetry in the same dark tone as the walls will also add to the dramatic effect. Layer this glossy finish with metallic accents such as gold, brass or copper to add depth and a touch of luxury.'

6. Pale Pink

A few years ago, committing to a pink paint would've sounded daunting, but with shades like Setting Plaster and Dead Salmon to choose from, adding subtle color to a small bathroom has never been more inspiring.

Interior designer Leonora Birts says, 'With this bathroom (pictured above), I wanted to create a calm but warm and inviting space. I think the combination of pink and brass works so well together, so here we chose Farrow and Ball Pink Ground on the walls and the taps and shower in a polished brass finish.'

Whether it's Farrow & Ball's pastel paints or Benjamin Moore's French Lilac, other muted tones can invite character into a small bathroom, too. Helen says, 'Offset hard surfaces often found in bathrooms like tiles, mirrors and fixtures by picking a hue that allows the walls to bring a sense of softness to the space. Soft pastels such as pale blues, greens and lavenders will create a sanctuary-like feel, perfect for relaxation at the end of the day.'

A place where you have more free rein than you might think, small bathrooms aren't all bad; in fact, they're the perfect place to live out your colorful fantasy and decorate with a shade you wouldn't normally. By considering bathroom color combinations, you'll have a space that not only uplifts but feels accomplished and considered, destined to look good for years.

No tub setup is complete without a bath caddy. But for something that is such an essential, it can be difficult to find a design that is water-resistant and mold-proof, yet still visually appealing enough to elevate a bathroom.

A bath caddy is a real workhorse, used as both a styling piece and the single item that holds essentials while you bathe. I picked out a chic wooden design months ago, and while it looks lovely, I have noticed it's already going moldy. So if you, too, have been struggling to find a design that ticks the functional and aesthetic boxes, McGee & Co. has just launched the Pickens Rattan Bath Caddy.

This chic design single-handedly elevates your bathroom without becoming moldy after just a few uses (wooden caddies, I'm looking at you). This switch has added the same texture and warmth to my bathroom, but it's not going to struggle in the damp conditions.

It's not often you come across a bath caddy that looks good and is actually fit for purpose, but this rattan-look design is exactly that. You don't have to contend with all the gaps you get in metal designs (perfectly sized for a phone to fall through), nor does it encounter the same damage and warping as wooden ones.

It sort of takes the best of both designs to create something that feels truly elevated. And it's already receiving rave reviews, all of which are 5-star so far. 'This looks fabulous on my big tub. It is better than expected, high-quality, a substantial piece,' writes one customer, whose compliments focus on the beautiful quality.

For others, it's the size that truly appeals. 'It is the perfect depth to keep your drinks and bath add-ins and will be so nice to style with a candle and some salts,' writes another.

The design is one that feels really cohesive with the way people are approaching bathroom design right now. A quick glance at this year's bathroom trends, and you'll know that there is a clear shift towards warm, welcoming spaces that invite you to truly relax and unwind. And this bath caddy feels really inline with that ethos.

It's easy to get caught up in the beauty of this bath caddy, but the functional aspects are really worth highlighting. A bath caddy needs to be mold-resistant, and the polywicker weave (a plastic weave that mimics the look of the natural material) makes sure that it's fit for purpose.

Another thoughtful detail is the handles, which take the brunt of the weight of everything you store and display on the caddy. Instead of leaving them as bare metal, the weave has been carried all the way around. It's not just a decorative detail, but one that protects the edge of the bath over long periods of use.

For me, this bath caddy is one of the few that really meets the mark. It's a charming design that creates a beautifully decorative detail on your bath, but function has still been prioritized.

Whether you're striving to create a spa-like bathroom or simply want to find a bath caddy you don't have to continuously replace, this rattan design is the perfect piece. Rattan brings warmth and texture to your bathtub, and the functional benefits make it truly hard to resist.

Bathroom colors have never been the most exciting. Until recent years, it was a sea of white and gray. But in 2026, it’s these once-popular ‘safe’ shades that designers actually warn against using if you want to create a more interesting, unique bathroom.

Bathroom color trends have shifted toward warm, soft, nature-inspired hues, and cold, neutral shades are no longer the go-to they once were. So which colors are officially on the out? And which shades should you be trying instead? We’ve turned to interior designers to discover the dated bathroom color trends we shouldn’t be bringing into our spaces in 2026 – and the chicer hues to try instead.

1. Black and White Schemes

Bathroom trends are moving away from designs that just look good in a picture and towards spaces that bring comfort and warmth. And bathroom colors are following suit, with stark contrast feeling entirely outdated.

'Bathroom color trends that feel dated in 2026 reflect an earlier emphasis on visual impact over comfort and longevity. High-contrast black-and-white palettes are a good example,' says Mary Gordon, co-founder of InSite Builders & Remodeling.

'Once associated with sleek, minimalist design, these combinations now seem harsh and overly designed in a space that homeowners increasingly want to be calm, restorative, and welcoming. The shift is away from sharp contrast and toward tonal, layered palettes that are softer and more enduring.'

If you like the sense of contrast that a black and white bathroom creates, swap it for warm white and cozy brown hues. It hits the mark without feeling stark. Instead, this combination feels rich, warm, and utterly timeless.

'Warm neutrals are increasingly preferred because they resolve many of these issues while offering greater flexibility. Soft stone tones, muted sand, chalky beige, and clay-adjacent hues create a gentler backdrop,' adds Keeley Sutcliffe, design manager at BC Designs.

2. Deep, Dark Blues

Bathrooms are becoming softer and more serene in 2026, and the colors are the first feature to signal the shift. As such, many of the deeper, less inviting shades of past trends are on their way out, replaced by more earth-inspired palettes.

'Some of the bathroom colors that now feel dated for 2026 are those that arrived quickly and were applied too literally. Overly saturated blues, particularly glossy navy and inky cobalt, have begun to feel heavy and inflexible because they dominate the room rather than working with it,' says Grazzie Wilson, head of creative at Ca’ Pietra.

'There is a clear move towards richer, more complex color stories that feel layered and full of depth. Deep umber, tobacco, and clay-based browns are appearing more frequently, bringing a sense of depth that works beautifully with texture and variation in tile glaze. Alongside this, darker greens are evolving away from obvious botanical shades towards moss, lichen, and mineral-led tones.'

3. Cool Gray

This one comes as no surprise. The 2016 trend may be in full swing right now, but cool-toned grays are another palette designers say you should avoid in 2026. It's cold, uninspiring, and brings none of the warmth and character that are dominating the bathroom design world.

'Cool gray bathrooms are also losing relevance. Gray became popular as a safe, resale-friendly neutral, but in bathrooms, it often reads flat and cold. Gray finishes can mute natural light and leave the room feeling stark, which runs counter to today’s growing focus on warmth, wellness, and everyday comfort,' says Mary.

'Cool gray in bathrooms is starting to feel boring and under-stimulating; it lacks the warmth and personality homeowners are craving,' agrees interior designer Amy Courtney. 'Richer tones like warm creams, rust, and dusty teal blues bring depth and character.'

4. Overly Saturated Jewel Tones

Much like certain shades of dark blue, other deep hues are also beginning to feel a bit outdated and unaligned with this year's trends. Decorating with moody colors definitely still has its place, but not when it comes to these colder shades.

'Heavily saturated jewel tones are less current when used as dominant wall or tile colors. Shades like emerald and sapphire can read theatrical, and when color overwhelms a space rather than supporting it, the design becomes dated quickly,' says Mary.

If you love the look and feel of a moody, dark bathroom, consider luxurious burgundy hues or even rich browns that feel earthy and warm. It's about choosing colors that feel timeless and inviting, whether those palettes are light or dark.

5. Cool-Toned Pastel Hues

Those preppy pastel hues that you've seen all over Instagram might look pretty in pictures, but designers say they are the quickest way to design a dated bathroom in 2026. The truth is, their cool undertones and lackluster undertones just don't meet the cozy, warm style everyone is craving right now.

'Soft pastels are also falling out of favor. Colors such as powder pink and mint green now feel more nostalgic than intentional and often lack the grounded, timeless quality homeowners are looking for,' says Mary.

'Cool blush pinks and pastel-led schemes that once felt fresh can now feel overly decorative,' Grazzie agrees. 'Muted reds with earthy undertones, including softened oxides and brick-adjacent shades, are also being used to add warmth without slipping into softness, particularly when applied through handmade or glaze-reactive tiles where colour shifts naturally across the surface.'

There are no rules when it comes to choosing the best color for your bathroom, but this designer's advice helps to ensure your scheme feels timeless for years to come. It's less about colors that are in or out, and more about how you use them.

Mary Gordon summarises it perfectly: 'The shift in 2026 is less about avoiding specific colors and more about moving away from rigid, high-impact schemes. Bathroom color is becoming warmer and softer, supporting the space as a true retreat rather than a design statement.'

Bathrooms are changing. The focus on utility is giving way to softer, more decorative designs, and it's sparking the revival of a few traditional bathroom features that are set to bring life and personality to schemes of every style.

There are elements of a traditional bathroom that feel right at home in the style and atmosphere we are all craving from these spaces. They encourage characterful details and designs that are about more than streamlined storage and water-tight features.

And these elements are in all different shapes and sizes. From vanity designs to lighting and tiles, these are the traditional bathroom features designers say will be most coveted this year, and how to bring them into your own space tastefully.

1. Built-In Bath Nooks

There's something about a freestanding bath that always appeals, but it's not the only way to create a sense of luxury with your tub. In 2026, it's time to reintroduce built-in bath nooks to the equation.

'I’m loving built-in baths. The Victorians often used them with panelled sides, and we’ve taken that idea and elevated it into clever nooks and genuinely luxurious spaces. A built-in bath becomes a strong visual focal point and adds architectural interest to the space,' says interior designer Uns Hobbs.

'I’m particularly drawn to designs with a stone surround as it instantly feels special and creates generous ledge space for candles, plants, bath products, and even an iPad to watch or read something while you soak. It gives the bathroom a true spa-like feel,' she explains.

These bath nooks are not just a striking architectural feature in a bathroom, but they are incredibly practical, too. The tiled surfaces make them incredibly water-tight, and they can be designed to hide shower fixtures for a more seamless design. It's the opposite of a freestanding bath, but one that is equally as striking.

2. Traditional Washstands

Bathroom vanities are a staple in any space, but in 2026, the traditional washstand is making a comeback in designs of every style. It means losing some hidden storage, but designers deem it a worthy sacrifice.

'I would love to see the traditional console sink make a comeback. The white porcelain, the metal legs and frame – it conjures up sentimentality and heirloom values. While I prefer the more ornamental to the prosaic, in either case, the negative space that either silhouette provides allows for a graceful framing of all the materials chosen for a powder room,' says Elaine Bauer Brooks of Bauer Brooks Interior Design Studio.

It's a look that has evolved, bringing traditional bathroom style in a less literal way. Materials can vary from classic metal to a more modest wood design, like in this scheme, featuring deVOL's Victorian Washstand.

'deVOL has always loved traditional furniture and cupboards and takes most of its design influence from Georgian, Victorian, and mid-century pieces. So, the washstand fits right in with that, along with the same colors as our kitchen cupboards and our beloved aged brass taps; it feels right at home,' says Helen Parker, creative director of the brand.

A washstand can often mean less surface space than a traditional vanity, but you can introduce wall-mounted storage and decor for the essentials that would usually live on your bathroom countertops. This Starck T Toothbrush Holder from Duravit is a perfect example, as is this Wall-Mounted Bathroom Caddy from Anthropologie.

3. Ornate Wall Lights

Bathroom lighting can easily feel a bit stark and sterile, especially if you are relying on a bright overhead light. But designers are reintroducing decorative ambient lighting to bathrooms that brings equal parts style and function to designs.

We've talked a lot about the power of layered lighting in kitchens, but it can be just as impactful in bathrooms. It's a space that really lends itself to more decorative, ornate wall lights, whether it's around a vanity mirror or a more unexpected wall placement.

It's a lighting approach that not only creates a more inviting atmosphere, but it doubles as wall decor with a truly traditional feel. It's also a much more flattering light than using the ceiling light alone.

Pooky's Long Roddy Wall Sconce adds a charming vintage feel to bathrooms, while a more unexpected design like McGee & Co's Danica Single Wall Light or the Cloud Organic Glass Sconce Wall Light from Anthropologie creates a more sculptural look.

4. Traditional Tiles to Ground the Bathroom

When it comes to bathroom flooring, more traditional floor tiles inspired by the Victorian, Edwardian, and even Georgian periods are enjoying a revival, infusing schemes with a classic yet infinitely more interesting look.

The checkerboard design has been back in the trends and our spaces lately, and it's just one of many more traditional styles making a comeback. But it doesn't have to mean busy, colorful, or even maximalist in style – even the most contemporary-adjacent decorators can get involved with traditional flooring designs.

'In terms of design impact, patterned Victorian-style floors fundamentally change how a bathroom is seen. They introduce a strong horizontal plane that grounds the room, balancing the curves of baths and basins while lending a sense of visual discipline,' says Grazzie Wilson, head of creative at Ca’ Pietra.

Take this bathroom, for example. The flooring is really quite simple, with a classic black and white color scheme. But the simple addition of the black triangular corners on each white tile really brings the floor design to life, taking it from basic to something entirely more decorative. It's simple, yet instantly becomes the focal point of the design.

5. Two Single Vanities in Place of a Double

It's become the norm to install a double vanity where space permits. A long countertop, ample storage space, and an easy way to fill a space. But there's something a bit more curated about two single vanities, the more traditional way to add two sinks, and more versatility with the design.

'I think we will start seeing two single vanities in primary bathrooms versus one long vanity with double sinks. Functionally, the separation of space opens up so many possibilities and also feels more formal. In 2026, people are really valuing space and thoughtful details, both of which are achieved with the two vanity concept' says Mary Beth Sullivan of MB Sullivan Design.

'A shift to two vanities ultimately changes the floorplan of bathrooms. The single long vanity almost always gets shoved into a corner where there is a long run of space. By breaking up the counter space, you have so many more options in terms of layout.'

This approach opens up the bathroom layout opportunities, but Mary advises against having the two vanities back to back 'to avoid the effect of the infinity mirror'. Instead, consider layouts that create a sense of symmetry. 'The vanities could be flanking the entrance to the bathroom or even to the entrance of the shower,' she suggests.

Shop Traditional Bathroom Features

Blending design styles is a proven way to create schemes that feel layered and curated in an authentic way, rather than a showroom approach. And mixing in these traditional bathroom features is a great place to start, bringing personality and timeless appeal to your space.

A tidy bathroom doesn’t happen by accident. People who keep their bathrooms clean and organized all have a few key tools and habits in common.

From smart storage solutions to simple daily habits, these five tips will prevent clutter from building up and make upkeep effortless.

Here's why you shouldn't try organizing a bathroom without them, according to the experts.

Five Things People With Tidy Bathrooms Always Have

1. Drawer Inserts Amplify Functionality and Ease Access

The number one thing the most organized people have in their bathrooms is good drawer organization. They are the best ways to organize deep drawers, and are a must when trying to keep a room with lots of small items, such as Q-Tips or hair ties, neat.

Meg DeLong, professional organizer and co-owner of The Tidy Home Nashville, says, 'We always hope most bathrooms we organize have as many drawers as possible. This makes splitting up the space and organizing a bathroom vanity super easy, especially with drawer inserts.

'These clear inserts from Amazon come in multiple sizes and can fit right into your drawer space to give you all the categories you need without them moving all over the place.'

2. Adopt a Less-is-More Outlook

Bathrooms can be one of the trickiest rooms of the house to organize by virtue of the number of different products we need. From hair and body care to medications, dental and beauty products, it can be a lot to fit in.

Times this by the number of people who share the space, and, as Meggie Mangione, pro organizer and author of Give Clutter the Middle Finger (available at Amazon), phrases it, 'Your bathroom counter can look like someone tipped over an entire Walgreens shelf.'

That doesn’t mean you have to wage war against your daily skincare routine, she assures. Instead, the trick is to think about smart storage and adopt a less-is-more approach. Rather than bulk buying and having lots of products on the go at once, take inspiration from the underconsumption trend and commit to not buying anything new until the existing products are used up.

Then, when organizing, Meggie suggests adding a vanity tray. 'Corralling everything onto one stylish surface instantly creates the illusion that your counter display is intentional and thoughtfully curated. It’s a small change that brings order without sacrificing convenience. Plus, if you get a cute vintage one, you can pretend you are a cast member on Bridgerton!'

We love this antique mirrored tray, from Anthropologie, for this look. Or, for something more modern, this marble scalloped tray, also from Anthropologie.

3. Functional Racks and Dispensers Are Key

The quick things people with spotless bathrooms do, such as wiping down counters and taps after use, can help keep a bathroom looking tidy, but mess prevention is the best first defence.

Cathy Orr, co-founder of The Uncluttered Life, says that this starts with smart, functional organizing tools.

Towels, for instance, quickly fall off hooks and end up in messy heaps on the floor. Cathy shares, 'I like ones that make it convenient to wipe your hands off after washing them.' The Yamazaki Home Towel Rack, from Wayfair, is ideal if you need something movable that will also allow towels to dry quickly. This provides the extra benefit of preventing musty bathroom smells, too.

'I also like a very functional soap dispenser,' Cathy continues. To keep bathroom counters tidy, opt for a practical soap dispenser such as the refillable glass dispenser from Target. You can see through it, so you know when to refill, and the heavy glass base means it is less likely to fall over on a slippery counter with wet hands.

'Pair it with this stone coaster, from Amazon, designed to absorb spills and prevent sticky soap rings around your sink for extra tidiness.

4. Moisture-Tolerant Storage

An abundance of organizers does not always make for a tidy bathroom. Rather, the right items do, especially in a space so prone to moisture buildup.

Small bathroom storage in particular needs to be breathable to allow for air to circulate, preventing mold and damp smells, Cathy urges. This makes maintaining the storage and keeping the space tidier easier long-term.

'Essentials for bathrooms include a great way to store paper products (toilet paper, paper hand towels) and essentials. If I’m doing this in a powder room, I try to use a basket with a lid or a decorative, but large enough, container.' The wicker on these woven lidded baskets from Target, for example, will allow air to flow, so nothing spoils.

'I place them so that others will see and use it,' Cathy continues, 'but won’t be so large that it becomes an eyesore.' You might also find DampRid Moisture Absorbing packs, from Amazon, helpful.

5. Employ Simple Systems for Success

Practical spaces call for practical home organizing systems. People with tidy bathrooms always have the simplest systems in common, making putting items back and retrieving them from storage intuitive, even with damp hands.

If products are too difficult to get out of a drawer, you are less likely to bother with them, leaving them to expire and become clutter. Similarly, if items are too much of a hassle to put back, they will start to clutter countertops. The solution is to add easy-access storage that works around your existing routines.

Bathroom wall storage is a good example of this, Cathy suggests, as is a well-organized linen closet that keeps all your bathroom essentials exactly where you need them, in the bathroom, and not in a closet halfway across the house.

What to Shop

Meet the Experts

It isn't just about what storage you add to your bathroom; there are some common bathroom design mistakes that could make keeping a bathroom tidy tricky, too.

When we think about toxins at home, most of us picture nonstick cookware or black plastic utensils in the kitchen. But experts say bathrooms can be just as problematic – especially right now, when we’re spending more time indoors and doing seasonal clean-outs.

According to toxicologists, some of the everyday bathroom organizing items many of us rely on could quietly expose us to harmful chemicals without us realizing it. From organizers to bins and caddies, what you store your essentials in matters just as much as the products themselves.

Here, leading toxicologists break down which common bathroom storage items are worth replacing now to reduce exposure, plus safer swaps you can make for a healthier home

Toxicologists Say Plastic Storage Is the Most Toxic Part of a Bathroom

It might be surprising, but the worst toxicity offenders in your bathroom are usually storage items. While they might help keep things tidy, using ones made from toxic chemicals should be at the top of your bathroom decluttering checklists to make a home less toxic.

Bruce Jarnot, global materials compliance expert, toxicologist, and product compliance advisor at Assent says, ‘In the bathroom, personal care, storage, and cleaning products, including dental floss, often contain PFAS.'

Polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are a group of long-lasting synthetic chemicals often used in plastics to make them nonstick, stain-resistant, or water-repellent. They can accumulate in the body and environment over time.

As we head into a new season and spend more time refreshing our routines and homes, it’s worth noting that studies show PFAS can disrupt hormones, contributing to low mood, low energy, and broader health issues over time. Reducing your exposure now –especially in the products you use on your body – can be a simple but meaningful step toward feeling better in the months ahead.

How to Easily Spot the Swaps to Make

To check if a bathroom storage item contains PFAs or BPA, you can try the following steps:

• Check the labeling or packaging – Look for terms like ‘BPA-free’ or ‘PFOA-free’ (a common type of PFAs) on the product itself, its box, or the manufacturer’s website. Many brands now label items if they are free of these chemicals.
• Look at the recycling code – Plastic items often have a small triangle with a number (1–7). Codes 3 (PVC), 6 (PS), and 7 (other/PC) may contain BPA or related chemicals, while 1 (PET), 2 (HDPE), 4 (LDPE), and 5 (PP) are generally considered safer.
• Research the brand and product online – Manufacturer websites or independent product reviews sometimes list whether PFAs or BPA are present.
• Contact the manufacturer directly – If the packaging or website doesn’t specify, email or call the company to ask about PFAs or BPA in that specific item.
• Use caution with unknown plastics – If you’re unsure, it’s safest to replace the item with ones labeled BPA-free, PFAs-free, or made from glass, stainless steel, or FSC-certified paper rope alternatives.

Luckily, it is fairly easy to switch over to non-toxic home essentials to make your routine less damaging to your health, but don't forget about the toxic items in your bedroom and elsewhere, too.

Bruce Jarnot, toxicologist, adds, 'When shopping, look for items made from natural materials like cotton, bamboo, wool, or glass, and labels that state "PFAS-free" or "PFC-free”. If the ingredient list is long, look for chemicals that include “fluoro” as that signals the presence of PFAS.’

When organizing your makeup and skincare, store them in opaque storage off the counters. This protects them from humidity and sunlight to prevent early deterioration, keeping them in top condition for longer.

Beyond storage, Amberly Johnson, certified toxicologist and director at Utah Poison Control Center at the University of Utah, adds, ‘Our bathrooms are filled with products that can cause toxicity, including medications, personal care items, and cleaning supplies.

'Medications can be dangerous if not taken as directed or if ingested accidentally by children exploring their surroundings. Young children might mistake personal care products or cleaners for something edible. Additionally, getting cleaning products on the skin or in the eyes or inhaling their fumes can also pose serious risks.’

Other Tips For Reducing Toxicity in Your Bathroom Storage

Additionally, when organizing makeup and organizing skincare, keeping products off your countertops is especially important right now, as rising humidity and longer daylight hours can speed up breakdown and reduce effectiveness.

Storing them in drawers or cabinets helps protect formulas from heat, moisture, and sunlight, preventing early deterioration and keeping products safer to use.

Luckily, it is fairly easy to switch over to non-toxic home essentials to make your bathroom storage less damaging to your health.

As we head into spring cleaning season, it’s a perfect time to revisit how we store potentially hazardous items at home. Amberly Johnson notes that organizing medicine cabinets properly helps keep medications safe and in good condition, preventing early deterioration.

She advises, 'Prevention is key to avoiding poison exposure in our homes. Store medicines out of reach or in places where they are not visible, such as behind closed cabinet doors or inside a locked box [available at Amazon]. Always keep medicines in their original, child-resistant packaging to make them harder to access and easy to identify.'

With more time spent at home during the winter months or during seasonal clean-outs, it’s also important to rethink where we keep everyday cleaning products. Amberly adds, 'Don’t forget to organize cleaning supplies the same way.

'Place cleaners, including dishwasher detergent, in high cabinets that children cannot reach, and store them away from food to prevent cross-contamination. Remember, your local poison control center is available 24/7 at 1-800-222-1222 if a poisoning occurs or if you have any questions.'

Taking a few minutes now to reorganize medicine and cleaning supplies can prevent accidents, protect your family, and make your home feel safer and more orderly for the season ahead.

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FAQs

Are shower curtains toxic?

Shower curtains are relatively unassuming bathroom items, but they are potentially one of the most toxic.

Dr. Paul Savage, toxin expert and chief medical officer at MDLifespan explains, ‘Most of the ones on the market are made from PVC, which can release volatile organic compounds (or VOCs) into the air.

'These VOCs aren’t great, and they’ve been linked to respiratory issues and other health concerns. Swapping to a fabric or PEVA shower curtain is a simple change that can make a big difference.’

How you clean a bathroom can have a big impact on both your health and your home. Right now, as many of us focus on seasonal deep cleaning, choosing cleaning products that are gentler can make a real difference.

Opt for less harsh cleaners, like cleaning with vinegar, or explore plant-based alternatives to create a bathroom that feels healthier, safer, and more relaxing – turning your space into a true wellness retreat rather than a source of hidden toxins.

I love my bathroom to look nice and tidy, but the counters can become cluttered fast.

Having storage to hand that is easy to access and doesn’t get in the way of is often the easiest fix for improving functionality in high-use areas. That’s why I’m snapping up a compact Joseph Joseph cosmetic storage organizer from Amazon.

It’s great for organizing small bathrooms, and I love that it dismantles easily for thorough cleaning, which is a must in busy bathrooms.

Why a Compact Organizer Is Key in Cluttered Bathrooms

This item is Amazon’s Choice, a label that brands and retailers cannot pay to use, which gives us important information about the quality and functionality of the Joseph Joseph cosmetic organizer. It means that Amazon shoppers buy it often, rarely return it, it’s usually in stock, and well rated.

One such shopper, ‘Vicky Y’, who rated it five out of five stars, said they ‘got one and loved it so much I bought another. Helps me organize my bathroom countertop.’

That’s exactly the reason I’m getting one too, as in my tiny en suite, there is only a little windowsill for surface space above the sink, and not much will fit on there. The compact dimensions of this item, however, make it a handy addition to small spaces or those with limited counter space like mine, as it’s only 3.82 inches deep, 6.69 inches wide, and 4.72 inches high.

As pictured below, it’s so compact that it’ll even fit in a small bathroom alcove, a handy storage space that can easily become cluttered for the lack of room, usually, to house an organizer. The Joseph Joseph one will fit most, however, as well as any little shelves.

If you have under-sink cabinets as part of your small bathroom storage, you can also use the Joseph Joseph organizer to keep the internal shelves tidy, and with it being so lightweight and useful, bring it in and out to use the products stored within, as needed.

Another Amazon shopper that gave it five stars, Mihaela, said, ‘Very convenient to use, fits my make-up and brushes perfectly. Also fits very well on top of a standard sink. Clean and modern look. Definitely recommend.’

Resident decluttering method tester and content editor, Chiana Dickson, says, ‘I’m a big fan of Joseph Joseph products for their quality, so in a busy space such as a bathroom, where frequent use and humidity are factors, this little organizing gem will be very handy.

‘I particularly like that you can take all of the different elements apart for a thorough clean so you can clear any dust, debris, and grime that might build up from cosmetic products. There’s nothing worse than putting your hand in any organizing bin or product, and connecting with something slimy or damp, and the construction of this will help avoid that.’

The product is made from Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (known as ABS), which is a strong, sturdy plastic that’s made to handle everyday bumps and wear while still looking smooth and polished. For a bathroom organizer, this means it won’t crack easily if dropped, resists moisture and common bathroom products, keeps its shape over time, and maintains a clean, attractive finish that’s easy to wipe down.

What to Shop

If you like the concept, but would like another configuration that better fits your needs or bathroom counter dimensions, here are my top picks.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Using a slim bookcase as a storage idea in a small bathroom can also help make use of an awkward gap and keep essentials neatly out of sight.

With tile walls and hard floors, bathrooms are some of the hardest rooms to keep warm in the middle of winter. Add humidity, and towels can take days to dry completely. The result? Musty odors and potentially even mold.

Enter the Japanese-inspired Yamazaki Home Tower Towel Rack, from Amazon. Designed with small, sleek spaces in mind, it will maximize airflow and promote faster drying; this sleek, space-saving solution is on wheels, too, so it's not just practical, it's super-practical.

It's an essential upgrade to banish bathroom smells for good, experts say. Here's why.

The Minimalist Yamazaki Tower Towel Rack Is Highly Functional

When getting rid of musty smells in a bathroom, many of us look to deep cleaning a bathroom and drain cleaning solutions, overlooking our towels as the potential cause. This is especially true if you struggle to keep a bathroom warm in winter.

Even if you use your towels correctly, storing them incorrectly between uses can slow the drying process further. The result? A musty-smelling house and potentially even irritated skin as bacteria develop between the fibers.

James King, the operations manager at DeluxeMaid, explains, 'If you leave damp clothes or towels in your bedroom, expect things to smell musty. The fibers in the fabric provide mold spores with a food source, and the moisture allows them to grow super fast. The solution is easy here: make it a habit to hang wet items to dry in a well-ventilated area.'

That's where the Yamazaki Home Towel Tower, also available at Wayfair, comes in to save the day. Available in black and white, the thin-profile cart can hold up to four bath towels neatly, offering them ample space to dry completely, and more quickly than being bunched up on a hook.

The rack also offers space to dry bathmats, so you don't end up having to waste time freshening up sour bathmats between washes.

Besides hanging the towels out flat to reap the benefits of air drying, it's also vital to improve bathroom ventilation so that air can flow more freely.

The benefit of the towel drying rack having wheels is that you can pull it out into a well-heated, ventilated space when you first hand-dry towels, and tuck it away later in the day, saving space in small bathrooms without adding to visual clutter. Stuck in a pinch, it can also double as a rack for drying clothes indoors in winter, too.

It is, by far, one of the simplest tips cleaners swear by for fresh-smelling bathrooms.

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Finding it difficult to find homes for all of your towels, or space for them all to dry? Experts have finally answered the age-old question of how many towels you need to help you cut back on irritating clutter.

We asked Shea McGee a deceptively simple question with a lot riding on it: if you had to bet on one bathroom trend defining 2026 – a finish, a color, a material – what would it be? Given the designer's long-standing affinity for warm metals, her answer caught us off guard. Nickel.

‘I think the polished nickel is going to be the trend of the year because I think people are ready to move,’ she says, pointing to a collective exhaustion with golds, gunmetals, and other aged finishes that – through sheer overuse – have started to do the storytelling for us. ‘We’re seeing so many silver accents in decor, lots of silver frames and silver decorative objects, and I think that as people warm up to the idea of kind of going back to silver tones, you’ll see them go back to those classic polished nickel tones in the bathroom.’

This doesn’t mean ripping out your bathroom vanity tomorrow. Fixtures matter, but even a trinket dish or towel hook can reroute a space towards this Shea-approved bathroom trend.

And as the laws of design tend to play, when one trend rises, another recedes. For Shea, what’s losing its lustre is the wave of hyper-colorful, retro-inspired bathrooms that have dominated the past few years – often paired with the very warm, aging metal accents now on their way out.

‘I think there’s a time and a place,’ she says, spoken like the true future-focused designer that she is. ‘We do lots of colorful, bold, small bathrooms, but when I’m in a primary bathroom, I’m thinking about my client and if they’re going to be mad at me in three or four years,’ she chuckles.

‘No, truly! I mean, I want them to love it for a long time,’ she adds. A bright yellow toilet might thrill today, but time has a way of humbling us. Still, Shea's not advocating for a completely neutral bathroom either. ‘I love to layer patterns, and I love incorporating color into jewel box moments.’ What she's pushing back on is simply color deployed for shock value alone – the best bathrooms feel like you.

‘I think I’ve seen more people go with what they love. And that’s really exciting to me.’

So the 2026 bathroom TL;DR isn’t about chasing the newest trends. It’s about knowing yourself. If a colorful trough sink feels genuine to you, keep it. If it doesn’t, don’t manufacture a personality for the sake of a trend. And when it comes to metals, consider this a sign to give gold, brass, and gunmetal a breather. According to Shea, polished nickel is back, in bathrooms and beyond.

Ahead, a few essentials to help your space shine in the right ways this year.

Shea McGee is often an excellent barometer for where design is going. This time, the needle swings seaside – but not in a coastal-grandmother, wicker-everything way. It’s cooler. See the look play out in her refreshingly whimsical spring 2026 Target collection.

If you're currently in the process of planning a new bathroom, chances are you're picking out a bathtub, wall color, and flooring type. But have you considered storage?

It may not be as glamorous or exciting, but it's undoubtedly an essential – and our professional organizers say there's one particular bathroom storage idea you should never overlook.

Not only is it important for a clutter-free bathroom, but it's also crucial for safety. Here's why closed, secure storage in bathrooms is a non-negotiable, according to our experts.

The 1 Bathroom Storage Essential to Never Overlook

Whether you're perfecting your small bathroom storage ideas or working on organizing a modern bathroom, Martha Carol-Stewart, the owner of Chaos Organizing, stresses that these rooms are often thought of only as spaces for getting ready for the day or to prepare for bedtime. But, in fact, they're actually some of the most used areas of a home.

'Bathrooms need to function as a spa to take care of our skin and wash off the worries of the day, a pet care facility where our animals are groomed and taken care of, and most importantly, a place where our family comes for their healthcare,' she explains. 'Medicine cabinets are often in every primary bathroom.'

Therefore, the one storage detail she says she always encourages homeowners not to overlook is closed, secure storage.

'Lockable drawers or cabinets create a safe place for medications and personal items, while reducing visual clutter,' she advises, and helping to keep bathroom countertops clear.

'This is especially important in homes with children,' she adds. 'Simple solutions like interior cabinet locks or locking storage boxes,' such as the number one bestselling Lockabox One available at Amazon, 'make a big difference without complicating the space.'

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Of course, you'll still need to keep your everyday items, like your toothbrush, toothpaste, and face wash, close at hand. For these bits, Jill Katz from One to Zen Organizing, says homeowners should never overlook the need for a countertop organizer, like this one available at Amazon.

'We all want our counters cleared and streamlined, but we will always want to keep certain items out and ready in our bathroom, such as our toothbrush, toothpaste, or other essentials that can get wet or that we use every day,' she says. 'An organizer like this allows for individual choices of various sizes.

'We are going to put items on the counter anyway, and purchasing a product like this creates a calm intentionality that we professional organizers like to see in our clients' spaces.'

And, there's no doubt that countertop organizers like this make it easier to become a morning person, too, as organizing your morning routine is the first step to a streamlined wake-up.

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If you're generally short on bathroom storage, this under-sink storage hack is a simple, on-trend fix.

Nothing transforms a bathroom quite like color. It dictates the mood, atmosphere, and style of the space in a way no other feature can. And if your scheme needs a fresh injection of energy, look no further than 2026's bathroom color trends.

This year, the shift away from white continues, replaced by warmer, richer colors that support some of the biggest bathroom trends emerging, from spa-like spaces to earth-inspired abodes.

But there are more bathroom colors designers predict will be big this year – these are the seven most coveted hues you should have on your radar for a stylish bathroom refresh in 2026.

7 Bathroom Color Trends for 2026

This year, expect bathrooms to continue to evolve into retreats that focus on comfort and wellness. They are rooms that welcome us, feel inviting, and bring a sense of calm, but they are also rooms that can shine with a bold or unexpected statement. Whichever way your style leans, these are the 2026 bathroom color trends to know.

1. Soft Greens Paired With Stone Hues

Until recently, creating a calming, serene bathroom was to paint the entire scheme a light, bright shade – usually white. But 2026 bathroom color trends are about tones that feel softer and are heavily inspired by the natural world.

'Bathroom color palettes continue moving toward warmth, depth, and a stronger connection to nature. People are already moving away from stark whites and cool greys, and that will only deepen,' says interior designer Laura Hammett.

'Soft ivory tones, warm stone, and soft greens will become increasingly popular. These colors feel grounding and timeless, and they work beautifully with natural materials like stone and timber. In a bathroom, color should create a sense of calm and relaxation, and these palettes achieve that without overwhelming the space.'

2. Clay, Stone, and Terracotta Tones Move In

As people continue to crave materials that bring texture and organic style to bathrooms, colors inspired by natural materials are also becoming increasingly sought after.

'By 2026, we expect bathrooms to move toward warmth and tactility. Marble-drenched spaces will continue to rise in popularity, but with a softer lens – think creamy veined stones and honed finishes that feel calm rather than cold,' says interior designer Rebecca Hughes.

But it's not just the usual stone we are used to. 'Warm neutrals like sand, clay, and mushroom will dominate, reflecting a desire for bathrooms that feel restorative, grounded, and deeply personal rather than stark or clinical,' she explains.

And there's a real emphasis on these colors that are inspired by materials typically used for pottery, as interior designer Lauren Gilberthorpe explains: 'Rich terracotta and earthy neutrals remain strong favourites. Their timeless quality and depth give bathrooms a sense of permanence and warmth, making them a versatile choice for a scheme that will age gracefully.'

3. Sophisticated Yet Moody Browns

Our revived love for brown interiors is here to stay in 2026, and it's also making its way into bathrooms. It's a hue that suits anyone who likes to decorate with moodier colors, but it also works well in historic properties.

'Bathrooms are a great opportunity for a bolder, more unexpected take on color. We have seen a growing interest in the brown color family, and a color like our Color of the Year 2026, Silhouette AF-655, is a great hue to consider,' says Arianna Barone, color marketing manager at Benjamin Moore.

'It balances between gray and brown, giving it just the right amount of warmth and elegance. We find that people are looking for their homes to feel cozy but still considered. It is the perfect introduction to browns if you previously found yourself leaning towards grays and charcoals.'

4. Pale Pinks Emerge as an Unexpected Favorite

Perhaps the biggest bathroom color trend of the year, pink bathrooms are proving more popular than ever. But we aren't talking bold, vibrant shades, but rather softer, creamy tones that add a refined elegance to a scheme.

'Pale pinks and creamy whites are increasingly popular, creating spaces that feel soft, calm, and quietly sophisticated. These shades bring a sense of lightness without feeling cold, and they work beautifully alongside natural materials such as stone, timber, and brass,' says Lauren.

It's a reimagined take on the usually preppy palette, taking it from childlike to something entirely more sophisticated. 'Dusky pink feels particularly relevant for bathrooms in 2026 because it sits at the intersection of comfort, nostalgia, and playfulness, offering warmth without tipping into sweetness,' agrees Grazzie Wilson, head of creative at Ca’ Pietra.

5. Rich, Navy Tones For a Darker Scheme

Returning to the theme of bold bathroom colors, navy is, perhaps unexpectedly, one of the shades to know about in 2026. It's deep, dark, and moody, but it's also considered one of the true classic colors – and it's an underrated way to bring blue into your scheme.

'Bathrooms in 2026 will continue to favor restrained, architectural palettes with clean whites paired with deeper tones like navy,' says Robert Bakes of Bakes & Kropp, who notes that thoughtful lighting and clean lines are key to this color's success in a bathroom.

In this bathroom, navy blue glossy tiles on the wall bounce light, creating depth and interest. The navy blue vanity, which reads a shade darker, adds a classic feature to the room. It feels bold and dramatic, yet still utterly timeless.

6. The Return of Earthy, Grounding Color Palettes

Warmth and timeless style are pillars of a successful bathroom, and that ethos relies on good color choices. And in 2026, those earthy tones we all love so much are becoming all the more prevalent in bathroom schemes.

'Earthy colors are having a moment in interiors, and I’m seeing so many bathrooms designed in serene, nature-inspired greens. Think soft sage, warm olive, and cool lichen; versatile, understated hues with a calming, spa-like feel. They evoke the natural world and have an instantly soothing effect, so it’s no wonder we love them so much,' says interior designer Kathy Kuo.

'I love creating moments of dimension and visual interest in a bathroom, and the walls are an amazing canvas for exactly that. Add a wallpaper in a pretty botanical print, install wainscoting and paint it green, or use a limewash paint to bring a sense of depth and movement to the walls,' she suggests.

7. Softer Shades of Blue

Navy isn't the only shade of blue trending in bathroom colors this year. At the other end of the spectrum, softer blues are also set to be a big hit, creating a sense of calm and restraint in schemes of every size.

'Soft blue will stand out in bathrooms in 2026. As spaces become more spa-like and restorative, these gentle hues feel natural. Paired with classic Thassos marble tile and celeste-blue mosaic accents, the look gains depth and visual interest,' says Bebe MacKellar, designer at Fanny Bolen Interiors.

There's a real versatility to this bathroom color trend. In this scheme, the vanity and woodwork have been painted a soft shade of blue, highlighting the pretty tones in the patterned wallpaper, but you could also take a white space and fill it with soft blue decor.

There's a quiet restraint to this year's bathroom color trends. While there are some beautiful tones and bolder hues, they all nod to more natural references, making them feel really rather timeless and easy to decorate with. It reflects the shift in the way we use our bathrooms, embracing warmth and comfort over bold design decisions.

January might be the month where we look ahead, making plans and setting goals, but it's also a month that encourages a slightly slower pace – one that lends itself to moments of reflection on the past year.

At Homes & Gardens, we take the opportunity to look back at the beautiful house tours we shared throughout 2025 and the schemes that you, our readers, loved the most. And here, the focus is on bathrooms that caught your attention.

It was an interesting year for these practical rooms. They became more layered, more lived-in, and all the more inviting. And these particular designs, favored by you over the last year, are the perfect snapshot of how bathrooms were shaped in 2025.

1. An Organic, Neutral Bathroom in an Adobe Home

The small portions and dated design didn't deter interior designer Sarah West in this organic neutral bathroom remodel. Located in an Adobe home, she had a rare opportunity to blend warm style and playful design with a charming historical architectural style.

And it was the textured finishes that really brought the design to life. 'One of the standout design features of this project is the hand-troweled plaster walls, which add a rich, tactile quality to the space. The subtle movement in the plaster beautifully complements the home’s original thick adobe walls, enhancing its organic, handcrafted feel,' Sarah says.

'The juxtaposition of the reclaimed doors with the smooth limestone countertop provides subtle visual interest and blends old details with new. The use of reclaimed materials not only adds warmth and authenticity but also reinforces the timeless character of the adobe architecture,' she adds.

The project centered around honoring the historic bones while infusing the small bathroom with contemporary touches. And it's thanks to the mix of materials introduced that this look has been achieved. 'This integration of texture, craftsmanship, and historical reference makes the design feel rooted in the space and thoughtfully reimagined.'

2. A Moody Meets Elegant Design in a Philadelphia Mansion

The powder room is a true statement piece in this historic property that has been transformed into an elegant home originally by architect Horace Trumbauer, and now remodelled by Autumn Oser and Andre Golsorkhi, the husband and wife duo behind Haldon House, on behalf of their friends.

It was once a house in need of rescuing, left in a bad and dreary state. But the remodel couldn't be further from its unfortunate starting point. ‘The features in this home are unique and could never be created again. We were fortunate that our friends wanted to lean into the original features and authentic charm and detail. They didn’t want to just strip it all away, and that was important to us,’ Autumn explains.

The powder bathroom is a perfect example of their sympathetic approach to the redesign. It might be the smallest room in the home, but the design wows as soon as you set eyes on it. The custom limewash walls in a deep green tone set a dramatic backdrop and bring out the traditional molding on the walls.

The custom marble sink is a luxury addition the design, and becomes the star of the show. The wooden bathroom vanity table nods back to that traditional style, creating a more organic finish against the sleek marble. Brass hardware is the perfect finishing touch – together, these elements feel timeless and characterful, paying true homage to the historical roots of the property.

3. A Modern Bathroom With European Influences

Deeper, moodier tones may have been at the center of 2025 trends, but the bathroom in this modern European home in Tennessee proves there was still an appetite for lighter, more neutral schemes.

'The architecture has a quiet grandeur rooted in European tradition, and I leaned heavily on antiques and timeworn materials to give the interiors depth and history,' says designer Lauren Sullivan, of the studio Well x Design.

It's not always easy to create such a look in a bathroom, but she has done so exquisitely. The tall, cathedral-style ceilings introduce that sense of grandeur, while warm paint colors and layered decor add the desired warmth and antique sensibility.

The freestanding bathtub beneath the window centers the room, while a shower nook recessed into the wall creates a more livable atmosphere. Decor is key to the finish of the design, taking the space from a utilitarian bathroom to something more cozy.

The vintage-style bath rug adds warmth and interest, as do the natural window treatments. On the walls, framed illustrations reintroduce personality, while shelving creates a streamlined place for storage and extra decor, such as ceramics and small houseplants.

4. A 1920s Cottage Bathroom Painted an Unexpected Hue

After years of remodeling and designing beautiful homes for her clients, it was time for Daniella Dolman, creative director and designer at FOR Design, to turn her attention to her own home, a 1920s cottage.

The remodel included a large expansion, taking the home from a space with a small kitchen and one tiny bathroom to a spacious three-bedroom and four-bathroom abode. And it was the primary bathroom that caught your attention last year.

'In the main bathroom, elegance is found in the absence of clutter and the weight of materials. A floating double vanity, carved from thick marble, hovers with quiet confidence,' explains Daniella.

'I decided against any visible hardware, no ornament – just the poetry of proportion and light. The space is meant to feel like a Parisian atelier apartment open, tonal, and utterly intentional.'

It's the bathroom color here that's perhaps the most striking – and surprising. The rich, purple hue adds a sense of drama and opulence that you just couldn't achieve with a lighter shade. It's bold, a little daring, but has an air of timelessness about it. It's the antithesis of white, boring interiors.

5. A Reimagined Bathroom with Mediterranean Influences

After a few years of living in the space and implementing a few DIY solutions, owner Jennifer Rothbury decided it was finally time to give her primary bathroom the update it deserved, transforming the space from bland and dated to something all the more inviting.

'When designing the bathroom, the style I was aiming to achieve was a calm, timeless sanctuary where I could unwind after a hectic day. The material choices consist mainly of wood, terracotta, and marble – all natural materials which I felt worked beautifully together,' she explains.

'They are all very tactile materials with natural and individual patterns and grains running through them, which is visually pleasing. Natural materials do require a little more maintenance with sealing, but that little effort is worth the beauty of them in my opinion!'

The result is a bathroom that feels like stepping into a spa, filled with warmth and texture that invites you to enjoy and linger. The marble elements introduce a more elevated feel, creating contrast to the more textured natural finishes. The vanity follows the same palette of natural and sleek – it's a true lesson in getting a neutral bathroom right.

6. A Warm, Patterned Bathroom in a London Townhouse

The tall, narrow layout of this London townhouse meant each room required a more considered layout. But each of the five floors has been filled with joyful color and riotous patterns to design spaces that feel sophisticated, yet still have that comfortable, youthful air.

‘I was listening to the family tell me they wanted a home to be proud of, and one they could entertain in. They’re young and not very traditional, but I got the sense they wanted to impress, so my mood board quickly became about sumptuous materials, jewel colors, plenty of pattern, and the idea that more is more – a real sense of theatre,’ says Lara Bates, founder of design studio Lara et al.

And the bathroom was no exception. There's a joyous mix of colors, patterns, and materials that really bring the small yet impactful room to life. The botanical wallpaper with shades of red and blue creates a vivacious base, while woodwork finished in Caravan by Paint & Paper Library brings a warmer touch.

But there's also an almost vintage feel to the decor here. The gold, ornate vanity mirror, the opulent bathroom chandelier, the leather corner chair, and even the charming sconces all add a sense of old among the new. It balances the playful elements, creating a design that feels reminiscent of the owners' style, yet still feels right at home in the townhouse proportions.

Each of these bathrooms has its own style and aesthetic, but the best bathrooms of 2025 all feel layered and are filled to the brim with personality. It perfectly captures the bathroom trends of the past year, and forms a charming basis for the designs that are set to appeal in the year ahead.

It’s of course cliché, but January means a home reset for me. And I am not taking on a total remodel, just tweaking my key rooms so they feel refreshed for the new year. I always focus on the kitchen and the bathrooms first, as it’s these spaces I find get the most tired toward the end of the year after so much use over the busy festive period.

After a deep clean, I like to switch out the smaller accents, and in a bathroom that’s simple – new soap dishes, shower curtains, bath mats, mirrors, and fixtures all work together to give the room a fresher look. And this year, I am sourcing most of my bathroom upgrades from Joanna Gaines' new spring collection at Target. Brimming with chic brass accessories, the chicest shower curtains, and towels in the most soothing colors, the new range is perfect for those small, affordable buys that are going to make a big difference and require zero effort.

Shop Chic Bathroom Decor from Hearth & Hand with Magnolia at Target

Not only will Joanna Gaines' bathroom decor transform your space into a stylized oasis, but it can do so for a really good price. If you're in the process of planning a bathroom, or even if you just want a quick New Year's bathroom refresh, these are the products to help you create the most stylish, inviting, and practical space.

While it's part of the overall bathroom design, a shower can often feel like its own entity, especially if you have a designated shower area with its own enclosure. It needs to feel cohesive with the rest of the room, but shower trends deserve a mention in their own right.

As you look for inspiration for this year's bathroom trends, don't forget to give the shower ideas their own moment, whether it's through the materials you use, the colors you choose, or the accessories you add to create something statement.

And the good news? Designers say this year is all about the shower, with new materials and designs coming into the limelight. Here are the most coveted shower trends to know for 2026, along with tips on how to incorporate them into your scheme.

9 Shower Trends to Know About in 2026

Whether you're reworking a shower room or you simply want to make your shower look more expensive, this year's trends have plenty to inspire your space. From tiles to architecture and even final decorative touches, these are the looks you'll be seeing everywhere in 2026, and how to introduce them to your scheme.

1. Unique Shower Benches

We've seen the rise of the sculptural bath stool, and even the emergence of charming, decorative shower stools. But 2025 is taking this a step further, with bigger and better shower benches that blend style and functionality.

'One of the biggest shower trends we anticipate for 2026 is the rise of unique, sculptural shower benches. We’ve seen the standard square and corner benches time and again, but adding a distinctive bench design is an unexpected way to elevate the shower,' says Kailee Blalock, co-founder of House of Hive Design Co.

'It’s also the perfect opportunity to play with materials. I love introducing either a bold statement marble or a coordinating stone that ties in with the bathroom vanity countertop. It’s a small moment in the overall space, but it’s where you can take a risk, whether that’s with shape, texture, or even a contrasting color.'

2. Windows in Showers

As spa-style bathrooms begin to re-emerge, there is one architectural feature that is becoming increasingly sought-after in showers: a window. We're not talking about a general bathroom window, but actually in the shower area for a dose of natural light.

'I have been getting more requests for windows or natural light in showers, and for the color palette to be simple, clean, and straightforward. I believe there is a deeper intention behind this consistent request – more than just simple aesthetics and style trends,' says Sondra Zabroske, architect at Four Brothers Design +Build.

'In our daily routines, there are fewer and fewer places where we are not bombarded with screens and can be alone with our thoughts. The shower seems to be the last stronghold. You can hear yourself think; it's a space that allows you to process your day and actually have a break from technology. If this is the case, to me it only seems natural to want a space less fussy and light-filled.'

3. Long Shower Curtains

If you have an old, plastic shower curtain, leave it firmly in 2025. This year, designers are embracing a more stylized, tailored look – they're approaching shower curtains the same way they would window treatments in other rooms.

Opting for long shower curtains that stretch from floor to ceiling elongates the room and creates a more elevated look. To really nail this trend, opt for beautiful designs on cotton or linen – you can easily add a shower liner behind to make it more waterproof.

This bathroom by Ethan Charles Design is a chic example. Hanging the shower curtain directly from the sloped ceiling all the way to the floor creates a more integrated look rather than a basic functional accessory. The lighter tones add contrast to the earthy green tiles – it's full of personality and character without being too busy.

4. Curved Shower Profiles

It's not just kitchen trends that curves are making an appearance in, but in bathrooms, it's a little bit more architectural. Instead of just curvaceous decor and accessories, curved doorways, profiles, and walls are proving a coveted look.

'We are seeing a growing appetite for softly curved shower walls, particularly in homes where bathrooms are becoming more sanctuary-like. These fluid lines not only make the space feel more organic and calming but also add a sculptural quality that feels bespoke,' says Grazzie Wilson, head of creative at Ca’ Pietra.

'Tiles are perfect for this type of design; smaller formats or flexible mosaics hug the curve beautifully, allowing for a seamless, flowing look that enhances both function and artistry in the shower zone,' she explains.

And she's not the only one noticing this curvy trend emerging. 'We have been seeing clients who love incorporating arched openings. The floor plans also have curved or oval-shaped showers in plan. It does not always need to be rectangular,' adds Wayne Adams of BVA BarnesVanze Architects.

5. Bold and Moody Tiles

White tiles always feel like a safe bet. It's an expensive element of the design process, and one you don't want to have to redo or replace anytime soon. But moody colors are here to stay, and designers say it's a palette we will all be embracing in our shower designs in 2026.

'One of the big shower trends heading into 2026 is the rise of bold, saturated tile. We’ve seen color exploding across furnishings, and it’s now making its way into architectural finishes – especially shower walls,' says Kristen Bonney-James of KBJ Interiors.

'I hope that homeowners feel inspired to move beyond the standard white subway tile and embrace richer hues that bring personality, warmth, and artistry into their bathrooms. Ground bold shower tile with a neutral paint color to keep the space beautifully balanced.'

6. Brushed Nickel Finishes

Brass is a truly timeless bathroom hardware finish, so it goes without saying that it's not going anywhere as we head into 2026. But trends are starting to embrace cooler tones, especially brushed nickel.

'Showers are becoming more design-led and tactile, and finishes play a huge part in that shift. Brushed nickel is set to be one of the defining choices going into 2026 because it feels softer than chrome but is still contemporary,' says Richard Eaton, design manager at Tissino.

'In a shower space, it adds warmth and depth to the fittings, complementing everything from clear glass enclosures to textured tiles. Carrying the finish through on faucets, shower heads, and frames creates a harmonious look that feels deliberate and considered, transforming the shower into a true focal point of the bathroom.'

7. Retro Metal Shower Enclosures

Showers are levelling up in 2026, but not in the way you might think. The focus is on shower screens and enclosures, in particular, how they can double up as a striking focal point. The answer? Retro-style designs.

'Most recently, we have seen a lot of requests for retro metal shower enclosures, ones that have nice finishes like brass or nickel; they have an art deco vibe,' says Wayne, noting a shift towards more decorative, statement shower designs.

This design is a perfect example and embraces the curved trend at the same time. The arched shower door creates a beautiful architectural moment, while the brass and glass doors pay the perfect homage to a more traditional style.

8. Juxtaposing Materials for a Chic Look

Confidence is the buzzword when it comes to shower designs in 2026, where contrasting materials are mixed and matched to create a striking yet still classic look. It's about playing with bold materials and pairing them with quieter looks for a space filled with artful juxtapositions.

'One of the biggest shower trends going into 2026 is pairing bold, expressive materials with refined, luxurious details. Think dramatic marble or oversized lighting to give the bathroom attitude, balanced with softer elements like drapery panels or plaster walls to keep it feeling elevated rather than stark,' says interior designer Kate Hartman.

'It’s the juxtaposition of materials, colors, and textures that makes this look feel fresh, modern, and original. Start by choosing one statement element and let it anchor the shower’s mood, then soften and refine the space. The goal is a curated mix that feels luxurious without being too precious, where contrast creates character.'

In this bathroom, a bold marble has been introduced for the bench and niche, while a calmer white zellige tile has been used on the walls. It's a look that lets the marble shine as the statement, and the tiles ground the space. It's both chic and timeless.

9. More Monolithic Materials

As we head into 2026, people are increasingly seeking bathroom designs that create a sense of calm. As such, large-format tiles are making a comeback, mixed into designs to create that seamless look.

'I see showers moving toward a quieter, more architectural sensibility. Clients are asking for spaces that feel restorative rather than showy, and that shift is shaping the next wave of design,' says Christopher Boutlier, principal designer at Christopher Boutlier Interiors.

'The biggest trend is the move toward monolithic materials. Large-format stone, porcelain, or terrazzo panels create a seamless envelope without the visual noise of heavy grout lines. It gives the shower a sculptural stillness that feels both modern and timeless.'

Shop 2026's Shower Trends

This is your sign to let your shower be the star of your bathroom in 2026. Whether you spruce up your shower walls with a marble niche or are looking for ways to give your walk-in shower more impact, these trends have something for every style and space.

The thing about guest bathrooms is that people will always tell you when they’re good. Design-minded visitors love to linger on thoughtful details – a great hand soap, a bold but beautiful wallpaper, a chic Scandinavian hand towel. What they won’t tell you is when something’s gone wrong. You’ll only hear about that later, if at all, in the form of a whispered postmortem: there weren’t any dry hand towels.

Mortifying – but avoidable. Designers, having been both guests and hosts more times than they can count, know exactly which details matter most in a guest bath, and which oversights undermine even the best-looking space.

Whether you’re refreshing a powder room or prepping for overnight visitors this season, ahead are six guest bathroom mistakes designers always notice – and what to do instead.

1. Insufficient Counter Space

‘One of the biggest faux pas I see is not having enough empty space on the counter,’ notes Elizabeth Vergara, CEO and Founder of Vergara Homes. ‘When you’re going in with your purse or any personal items you need, you want to have space to put them down.’

It’s an issue anytime, but it becomes especially glaring when you’re hosting overnight. Guests need room to set out toiletries without sending a soap dish or decorative object flying. ‘Some people overly decorate their bathroom counters, leaving very little room for the guest to actually use it,’ Elizabeth adds.

The solution isn’t to discard your guest bathroom essentials entirely, but rather, invest in some smarter bathroom storage. ‘A simple tray or a set of small baskets keeps everything organized while still giving guests a clean surface to use.’

2. No Signs of Life

For Cornelia Guest – actress, author, philanthropist, designer, and perennial authority on good hosting – a guest bathroom should always include a nod to nature. Without flowers, botanicals, or even a eucalyptus bundle tied in the shower, the space doesn’t just feel stale – it feels unfinished.

‘Fresh touches matter!’ Cornelia says. ‘I always love having flowers in the bathroom. They bring life and elegance to the space.’

That life doesn’t have to mean an elaborate arrangement. A simple bouquet from the market works, as does a countertop carafe filled with water and sliced citrus or mint. ‘These small gestures make guests feel welcomed and pampered!’ she muses.

3. Poorly Placed Toilet Paper

There’s a particular kind of hosting miscalculation where the toilet paper exists, but not in a place a guest would ever think to look. A roll balanced on the back of the toilet might make sense to you; to someone else, it registers as absence.

No need to overcomplicate it. Rolls should be immediately visible, within reach, and ideally treated as a design moment. The solution isn’t more paper, but clearer placement.

‘Sometimes toilet paper is placed in very inconvenient places or you have to reach very far to get it, which is not convenient,’ explains Evelina Juzėnaitė, Principal Interior Designer at Planner 5D. ‘It’s better to store it in a convenient place or in a visible place, for example, in a basket, on a shelf, or in a freestanding holder next to the toilet.’

4. Not Enough Towels

A guest shouldn’t have to pause mid-hand wash and assess the towel situation. No hand towel, a single bath towel hanging nearby – possibly meant for use, possibly not – creates a moment that doesn’t need to exist. Hand towels should be easy to spot and clearly intended for guests, not tucked away or left open to interpretation.

‘Running out of towels can be awkward at times,’ notes Cornelia Guest – visitors don’t want to sound rude by asking. ‘I keep extras ready so guests feel cared for and comfortable.’

That matters even more for overnight stays. In those cases, keep 'good' towels of every kind folded and in plain sight – so they’re impossible to miss, and no one ever has to ask.

5. Unpleasant Aromas

This one doesn’t benefit from euphemism. A bathroom that doesn’t smell fresh undermines even the most considered design, full stop. No amount of expensive hand soap or marble detailing can compensate for the absence of scent control.

The expectation isn’t constant fragrance, but consistency. Something should always be in place: an ‘always-on’ option like a diffuser, or a discreet, on-demand fix like a room spray.

‘This one I rarely see, but is still worth bringing up: not having the necessary items to keep the bathroom smelling fresh,’ notes Elizabeth Vergara. ‘It’s a bathroom, so you want to ensure there is always something to keep it fresh, whether it be a candle, diffuser, room spray, or even a hidden plug-in. Personally, I go a step further and add Poo-pourri that is easily accessible to ensure that no matter what, the fresh scent stays.’

6. No Trash Can

A guest bathroom – even if it is technically a 'half bath' – has to operate like a full one. That includes a place to dispose of the small, unglamorous necessities no one wants to exit the room holding.

‘This may seem like a minor detail, but the absence of a trash can can make you feel uncomfortable,’ notes Evelina Juzėnaitė. ‘It’s not necessary to put a large trash can there; a small, inconspicuous one in the corner of the room will suffice.’

Wastebaskets aren’t the most thrilling design category, but they are one of the clearest signals that a space has been thought through. A well-designed one becomes a small but telling opportunity to flex your amazing taste.

The best mistakes, of course, are the ones you never have to make. With the guest bathroom sorted, consider the rest of the house. Discover the home buys designers regret purchasing in 2025 – and what they’d do differently – so you can enter 2026 a little wiser.

The shower curtain is often the most overlooked element in an otherwise well-appointed bathroom – the last thing chosen, and usually the least inspired. Which is strange, given the sheer amount of visual real estate it occupies. Done right, it can anchor the entire space. Done wrong, it undoes all the good work around it.

Whether you're called toward lace trims and pinstripes, full-on tapestry scenes, or any bathroom trend in between, we found shower curtains that do more than their job. They make the room.

The Cut is all about Homes & Gardens helping you invest in pieces that feel current now, but won’t date as trends shift. Finds that elevate a room today and still feel right years from now. Whether it’s a sculptural accent chair or a chic pendant light, our editors will curate an edit that balances style, longevity, and quality. Consider this your shortcut to smart, beautiful shopping.

It can be quite tricky to decide on the best color for your guest bathroom. These spaces are usually small with limited space to make a design impact, so color really becomes the focal point.

And if you are redecorating your guest bathroom any time soon, you're probably searching for inspiration that suits your taste and will also impress guests. Not always an easy balance to strike.

Unless, of course, you turn to interior designers for advice. They've designed plenty of guest bathrooms and have a trusted list of colors they always return to. Here are the 5 they recommend for the chicest (and most impressive) scheme.

5 Colors Interior Designers Always Use in Guest Bathrooms

There are so many beautiful colors to consider for your guest bathroom. Just a glance at this year's trending bathroom colors leaves you with so many options. Some colors make a bathroom look more expensive, and others are centered around certain design styles.

So if you're suffering from decision fatigue, rest assured, you're not alone. But to help you start on the right foot, here are a few guest bathroom colors worth considering, all of which lend themselves to artful layering and timeless decorative details.

1. Bold, Moody Shades

On the other end of the spectrum, the guest bathroom is the perfect opportunity to experiment with bolder colors – in particular, moody hues. Consider it a confidence zone, somewhere to create a design that wows.

'A guest bathroom is the perfect place to create a jewel-box effect with a bold, dramatic shade. Colors like Evening Sky 833 or Hidden Falls 714 make a striking statement,' says Hannah Yeo, senior manager of color marketing at Benjamin Moore

'For maximum impact, consider color-drenching the space by painting the walls, trim, and ceiling in the same hue to blur boundaries and make the room feel more expansive. Balance the richness of these colors with light and reflective surfaces, whether through natural light or thoughtfully placed mirrors and glass accents.'

2. Soft Nature-inspired Colors

Adding color doesn't have to be ultra bold if that isn't your style. You can't go wrong with taking inspiration from nature – these soft, organic shades instantly appeal to the senses, creating a calmer, more relaxing feeling.

'I always recommend guest bathroom paint colors that are serene in nature – think warm whites, soft blues, and light earthy greens. These kinds of paint colors create a calming atmosphere and provide a relatively neutral backdrop that’s particularly ideal when guests are getting ready for the day,' says interior designer Kathy Kuo.

In this guest bathroom, paneling painted a soft green hue has been paired with a charming floral wallpaper, green vanity lighting, and an unexpected red mirror. It feels fun and playful, yet still sophisticated and elevated in style. It's the perfect balance of timeless and personality-filled.

3. Warm Neutrals

Neutrals are a classic and safe bet in a guest bathroom, as long as you stick to warmer shades. For designers, it creates a calming atmosphere that instantly invites you in, making your guests feel welcomed and comfortable. And it's also incredibly versatile.

'Stick with warm neutral paint colors to keep the environment universally appealing. This also lets you change the personality of the room through towels or small accessories for those pops of color, even trendy ones if you want,' suggests Robin Burrill, CEO and principal designer at Signature Home Services.

'If you prefer a softer look, create a neutral oasis with timeless, easy-to-love hues such as Swiss Coffee OC-45, Pale Oak OC-20, or Morning Dew OC-140. These colors bring a sense of calm and versatility, making them ideal for a serene, welcoming space,' adds Hannah.

For interior designer Rebecca Hughes, the chicest guest bathrooms are elevated by striking brass details, as shown in her project pictured above. Warm, rich neutrals are classic, but it's the metallic accents that create a sense of luxury in the design.

'Timeless neutrals in a guest bathroom are a staple. They pair well with any other decorative features in the space and can be instantly elevated by brass or gold fixtures. In our recent St John’s Wood Town House project, we incorporated a beautiful brass grid design to screen the shower off from other elements in the bathroom,' she explains.

'With fixtures, fittings, and hardware, I always say to invest in the best possible. Hardware is the jewelry of a space – those subtle details that elevate a bathroom from functional to fabulous. In this project, whilst some elements are more subdued, the golden elements add a beautiful sense of warmth.'

4. Heritage Hues

If you want to introduce a guest bathroom color that will still feel utterly classic and stylish in ten years or so, looking to heritage palettes is a great place to start. These shades have already been around for decades, with no signs of falling out of favor.

'Soft, heritage-inspired tones like warm taupe, soft blue, and sage green work beautifully in guest bathrooms. These colors are serene, universally appealing, and can give even a small space a sense of retreat. They create a feeling of sanctuary without overpowering the room,' says interior designer Laura Hammett.

'As with every space, it’s important to layer textures, finishes, and tones so the guest bathroom feels considered yet effortless. Consider pairing these tones with brushed brass handles, stone-effect vanity countertops, and wooden vanity units to soften and warm the space further.'

5. Playful Patterns

It's not just the color alone to consider in a guest bathroom. When choosing the right shade for your space, you might also need to reach for a standout material or statement pattern – especially if you are bringing in color through wallpaper or tiles.

'Selecting the right scheme for a guest bathroom is more than just picking a color – it's about achieving lasting beauty and harmony throughout your space, says Rebecca, who recommends adding something a bit more striking in a small guest bathroom. A full tile layout or a busy wallpaper, like in this design, can instantly elevate the look.

'I tend to embrace classic English influences with a relaxed, layered approach – creating spaces that feel effortless and comfortable yet still beautifully curated. I’m a firm believer that design should have longevity, rather than feeling too trend-driven.'

When it comes to guest bathroom colors, designers always recommend embracing classic colors rather than trending ones. Whether you embrace neutrals, experiment with earthier tones, or go bold with a darker hue, it's about selecting palettes that stand the test of time, while giving your guests the sense that the design has actually been considered, rather than an afterthought. Don't forget to stock up on guest bathroom essentials before visitors come to stay. The little things are always the most memorable.

'Bathroom’ is starting to feel like the wrong word. For most of us, it’s a micro-studio: a place to take calls, do your face, light the candle you’ve been saving, and skim a magazine in ten stolen minutes. No surprise, then, that one of the biggest bathroom trends of the past year and the year ahead has been character – a nostalgic, lived-in sensibility borrowing straight from the living room.

Think heritage prints, softened silhouettes, and the homespun ease of linen flounces. Suddenly, our loitering feels... justified. Why not add a chair?

From café curtains to candle sconces, here are 24 pieces that let your bathroom behave like what it’s already become – your unofficial private hang, finally styled like the home it’s been functioning as all along.

The Capsule is Homes & Gardens' series of carefully curated products designed to help you achieve a complete look. Think of them as design formulas – pieces chosen to work in harmony, perfect if you know your style and want an edited selection to bring an entire room together.

Designing a guest bathroom can be surprisingly tricky. These spaces need to feel both welcoming and practical for a variety of visitors, which often leads homeowners to play it safe with 'timeless' neutral shades. While there’s nothing wrong with this approach, it’s important to ensure the room doesn’t feel bland or lack personality.

I spoke with leading interior designers to get their tips for creating guest bathrooms that feel stylish, inviting, and full of character. One bathroom color consistently came up as a no-go: pure, cool white.

While white remains a classic and widely popular choice, it can also feel stark and uninspiring – risking a guest bathroom that comes across as cold and flat rather than the warm, inviting sanctuary it should be.

Why Should You Avoid White in a Guest Bathroom?

When I asked interior designers if there was a color they steer clear of when designing guest bathrooms, there was a unanimous answer: white. 'It feels sterile and, frankly, a little uninspired,' says Kristina Khersonsky of STUDIO KEETA. 'It doesn’t bring anything to the space and often ends up feeling more like a hospital room than a considered part of the home.'

Designer Kristina Lawrence also tends to avoid white in bathrooms. 'Not only can it be too harsh while looking in a mirror, in smaller guest baths, pure, hard white can emphasize shadows, making the room feel tighter and less inviting,' she says.

White paints can be tricky to get right in small rooms, which often receive less natural light. Instead of creating a light and airy look, they can feel dull and flat. 'Avoid stark white paint in a guest bathroom when possible,' agrees designer Hannah Blumenthal of Studio Olivine. 'It's never the most flattering shade, especially in rooms with little to no natural light like guest bathrooms and powder rooms.'

'Guest bathrooms can be a fun place to bring in color, especially since they are not used every day,' says Hannah. 'In a recently completed project in Washington, DC, we originally chose a creamy off white for a guest bathroom. Although it looked serene, the bathroom felt lackluster. We changed the paint color to Mizzle from Farrow & Ball, and suddenly the shower tile, wood vanity, and marble countertop took on a new life.'

What Colors Should You Use Instead of White?

Many designers favor colors richer than white in guest bathrooms, but what shades exactly? Below, we've rounded up three hues that designers regularly turn to, instead of white, to make this often forgotten-about room feel cozy and inviting.

1. Earthy Neutrals

'You don’t have to go super bold if you want to avoid using white in a guest bathroom,' says Kristina Khersonsky. 'Instead, I recommend an off-white with an undertone, think warm sand, soft greige, or even a putty tone. These colors are still neutral and calming but offer depth and warmth, which is especially important in a space meant to welcome guests.'

Kristina Lawrence also recommends earthy neutrals instead of white. 'A guest bath wrapped in a warm oat mineral wall color, paired with honed soapstone counters and a minimalistic sconce, instantly feels elevated yet calming,' she says. 'These gentler hues maintain the clean lines of minimalism while introducing enough warmth to help guests feel enveloped, relaxed, and genuinely welcomed.'

If you're wondering what the best earthy neutral paint colors are for guest bathrooms, there are plenty of options, from light tones to something much richer and cocooning. 'Consider creating a soothing retreat with deep, indulgent tones such as Little Greene's Chocolate Colour, or with gentle, natural stone hues or soft, warm grays such as their Rolling Fog Dark, which will wrap the room in comforting warmth,' says Ruth Mottershead, creative director at Little Greene.

When decorating with soft neutrals in your guest bathroom, consider channeling the color-drenching trend – where the one shade is used everywhere to include the ceiling and woodwork, which will help the space feel cohesive and cozy.

2. Soft Pinks

Similar to earthy tones, a soft pink is another designer favorite for guest bathrooms, adding a bit more interest than neutrals while maintaining that same calming feel.

Another reason they make a good choice for bathrooms is that warm tones are more flattering on the skin than cool tones, such as green. 'Avoid using hues with green undertones in bathrooms – they can cast an unflattering tone and make your reflection appear dull or even sickly,' says Brynn Olson. 'Instead, choose warmer shades with subtle pink, red, or orange undertones. These colors enhance natural pigments, creating a flattering, healthy glow every time you look in the mirror.'

The interior color consultant Charlotte Cropper also recommends decorating with pink in guest bathrooms. 'Pinks are brilliant in guest bathrooms because they’re flattering on the skin and incredibly versatile: pink-based neutrals, earthy rose and plaster tones, or red-based taupes like Lick's Taupe 03 or Weekender by COAT Paints,' she suggests

3. Soothing Pastels

Another way to add more color to your guest bathroom is to embrace pastel room ideas – from soothing blues to butter yellows. 'I lean toward colors with broad appeal, like pale yellow or sage over white,' says interior designer Rona Edelman. 'Both hues evoke warmth, calm, and light without overwhelming the eye. They create a gentle, inviting backdrop that helps guests feel comfortable and relaxed, and they also pair beautifully with most tiles, finishes, and bathroom fixtures.'

Helen Shaw, color expert at Benjamin Moore, also points toward soothing pastels for guest bathrooms, adding that they are an effective counter to all of the harsh lines and hard surfaces.

'Bathrooms are full of hard surfaces, from tiles and mirrors to fixtures,' she says. 'Offset this by picking a hue that allows the walls to bring a sense of softness to the space rather than opting for a strong shade with cold undertones. Soft pastels such as pale blues, greens, and lavenders will create a sanctuary-like feel, perfect for guests to feel relaxed at the end of the day.'

As with any design rule, not using white in a guest bathroom comes with a caveat: if it works in your space with your style, then great. However, much like powder rooms, guest bathrooms can be the ideal space to be more experimental with color since they aren't used full-time, so why play it safe with white? You want these spaces to feel soft and warm and inviting, and often white can do the opposite.

Whether it's a plaster pink or a sandy beige, each of these colors adds softness and stops the space from feeling sterile. Don't forget to layer decor too – textiles and contrasting materials are key to adding flair to these functional rooms.

For most of us, our homes never see as many visitors as they do over the festive period. And it's probably the first time since last year that you've taken the time to really look in on your guest spaces.

And the most overlooked room? Your guest bathroom. If it's been barely used over the last 365 days, it's probably seen better days, and it might even be feeling a bit out of style. And according to designers, there are a few things that will definitely make your guest bathroom feel outdated.

But fear not – hosting season is just gearing up, so there's still time to get your space into shape, and plenty of easy swaps and fixes to give your guest bathroom a much-needed refresh before friends and family come to stay.

6 Things Making Your Guest Bathroom Look Dated

No one is suggesting you rip out your guest bathroom and start from scratch, but there are a few small-scale swaps and updates you can make to not only refresh your guest bathroom but to create a more elevated hotel-style experience, too.

1. Shower Curtains with Overly Busy Patterns

When your guests come to stay, you want them to feel really comfortable, but also like they are getting a bit of a luxury experience, and a worn-out shower curtain will not only make a guest bathroom look dated, but can make it feel a bit unclean, too.

'Old shower curtains with excessively busy patterns are a sure-fire way to make a guest bathroom feel dated. The good news? This is one of the easiest bathroom elements to update. I recommend shower curtains in solid colors or petite prints that don’t overwhelm the space,' says interior designer Kathy Kuo.

'A textured shower curtain is another chic way to bring in visual and tactile interest! And to create a truly luxe look, choose an extra-long shower curtain instead of the standard height; this gives the illusion of a taller ceiling and creates a more seamless, polished appearance,' she suggests.

2. A Builder-Grade Guest Bathroom Mirror

Nothing says outdated and overlooked more than a guest bathroom fitted with basic, builder-grade features, and the most obvious of them all? The vanity mirror. After all, it's the one place you can guarantee your guests will spend time looking at.

'Are you still living with that big, builder-grade mirror over your sink? Swapping it out is a quick and easy way to add instant style to a guest bathroom. A vintage mirror can give you character, and a new piece will help your room look current,' says interior designer Laura Medicus.

Your guest bathroom is the perfect place to bring in a more decorative mirror, or that design you loved but just wasn't quite right for your main bathroom. The Frida Fluted Wood Wall Mirror from West Elm is a playful yet timeless choice, or for a metallic option, the Jane Brass Scalloped Framed Mirror from Magnolia is so chic.

3. Lack of Decent Storage

It's easy to overlook the more functional details in a guest bathroom. You don't use it frequently, and guests won't be bringing bags full of toiletries, but inadequate storage will leave your guest bathroom feeling cluttered and dated.

'When it comes to an outdated guest bathroom, the first thing we notice is a lack of storage and functionality,' says Jody Jones, a Chicago-based interior designer and founder of Blue Indigo Designs.

While you might not need to store the same volume of items you would in a primary bathroom, you still need somewhere to store guest towels, cleaning supplies, and small essentials and gifts you might like to leave out for guests.

'We love having a designated area in our guest bathroom's linen cabinets or vanities for those forgotten hygiene items. Think toothbrush, toothpaste, lotions, and sunblock. Similarly, we love having a drawer equipped with electrical outlets for hair tools all ready to go for your guest,' Jody adds.

Display any spare essentials in a tray on your guest bathroom countertops (this Threshold Rattan Tray from Target is a stylish option), hide overflow toilet paper and cleaning supplies in pretty boxes, such as Rejuvenation's Rinna Rattan Collection, or add wall-mounted storage, like this Mid Century Bathroom Cabinet from West Elm, in smaller schemes.

4. Underwhelming or Unflattering Lighting

We've all experienced arriving at a gorgeous hotel for the weekend, only to be let down by the bathroom lighting. And there's nothing like a bad lighting scheme that provides only harsh down lighting to make your guest space feel unwelcoming.

'Another telltale sign that you have an outdated guest bathroom is the lighting. No one wants shadows or spotlights when they are getting ready,' says Jody, noting one of the most overlooked elements of guest bathrooms.

'Make sure to use a layered approach when updating bathroom lighting. We love a brass or bronze sconce to add some warmth to the space while providing just the right amount of lighting.'

A designer-approved way to add extra lighting and a cozier feel is with a bathroom lamp perched on a vanity or open shelf – this wood and white design from Amazon is waterproof, cordless, and dimmable, perfect for a guest bathroom.

5. Overly Stylized Plumbing and Hardware

We often recommend going a bit bolder with guest bathroom colors for a fun design moment and to create the boutique hotel look, but that doesn't mean you should go wild with trending features. Because past trends in a guest bathroom will result in a space that looks instantly outdated.

Robin Burrill, CEO and principal designer at Signature Home Services, says 'The biggest culprits dating guest bathrooms are trend-driven choices, like the overly stylized plumbing or cabinet hardware that are in now. A guest bathroom is usually smaller and used less frequently, so anything trendy tends to linger long after it has gone out of style.'

'Cabinet hardware, especially, can be swapped out quickly when your tastes change, so you can add character without locking the room into a trend. Go crazy with that if you want, but to avoid the guest bathroom looking dated later, be prepared to update the hardware when it's time!'

6. Grout Lines That Have Seen Better Days

There's nothing like grime and build-up to make a guest bathroom feel dated. As a space you use yourself very rarely, it's important to go in and do a deep clean before guests arrive, and check if any tiles need regrouting.

'Over time, grout lines naturally collect dirt, lose brightness, and can start to discolor unevenly, especially in areas that are exposed to water or steam,' says Grazzie Wilson, head of creative at Ca’ Pietra, who notes that bad maintenance can make a guest bathroom look just as dated as out-of-style trends.

'A deep clean or re-grout can quite literally lift the entire room, brightening the tile surface and restoring definition to patterns or layouts that may have become muted over time. It might not be the most glamorous part of a bathroom, but it is often the detail that defines how fresh and polished the space feels.'

It's never been easy to give your guest bathroom a refresh, and these designer tips will ensure your visitors have the best experience in your home. Don't forget to top up your guest bathroom essentials to really elevate your guests' experience.

As we head further into the colder, darker months, I've noticed one major bugbear with my bathroom. When there isn't bright daylight beaming through the window, it feels really rather dingy.

And suddenly, I'm rethinking my bathroom lighting. It needs to be brighter during those dark evenings, but I'm not up for a total rewire, so I need something rechargeable, strong enough to light the room, yet still feel warm and stylish.

And I think I've found just the product. This Pack of 2 Motion Sensor Lights from Amazon is exactly what my bathroom is missing, and with 35% off in the Black Friday sales, it's a budget-friendly solution, too.

There are always a few changes we need to make to our homes as the seasons change, especially as we head towards winter. In many rooms, it's about swapping lighter fabrics for something thicker, or removing those brighter pastel hues for colors that lean a bit richer.

But in our more functional rooms, much like the bathroom, those changes tend to be a bit more functional. How can you make the room feel warmer as the temperatures drop, and how can you brighten the room when daylight is scarce?

Experts often talk about layered lighting, and I have had so many recommendations recently to add a bathroom lamp. But I have a small bathroom where surface space is at a premium, so a lamp is a bit of a luxury.

Yet these rechargeable motion sensor lights fill the gap perfectly.

They're not only magnetic, making them super easy to install, but also motion-sensor and dimmable, so they're perfectly functional for every need at any time of day. They add a soft light throughout the dark winter days, and they come on overnight when I need to use the bathroom and can't face the brightness of the big light.

I really love how easy they are to use – it's always a bonus when you don't have to call someone else in to do the job for you.

It's the versatility of these lights that makes them so appealing. You can install them inside your bathroom vanity or medicine cabinet to illuminate the contents for easy access, or you can add them beneath a cabinet to instantly brighten your whole sink space.

They are also USB-C chargeable, which is so handy, and the charge lasts from 7 to 45 days, depending on how frequently you are using them. There are five different levels of brightness, so you can find the level that works best for you and where you will be using it. Those small, customizable details really make a difference.

And what I love the most? It's how sleek and discreet they are. These lights are far from bulky and slot seamlessly into your bathroom without creating an eyesore. They're the perfect addition for functional lighting in a layered approach that still feels stylish and in-keeping with your bathroom aesthetic.

And they aren't the only rechargeable lights in Amazon's Black Friday Deals. Here are a few other options worth shopping for with major discounts.

These discreet under-cabinet lights are the perfect way to light your bathroom vanity without creating a visual divide. One of the biggest bathroom lighting mistakes you can make is not creating enough illumination during the darker months, and this small but mighty light eradicates that problem. And while they are so heavily discounted, now is the perfect time to get your hands on them.

How do you make a small, windowless, dark bathroom feel as chic and stylized as the rest of your home? For most of us, it's a space we'd rather close the door on and forget about entirely.

But Drew Michael Scott, A.K.A. Lone Fox, has just proved that the boldest design decisions will bring a windowless bathroom to life, and make it the chicest room in your home. And honestly? There's a lot about his design that you'll want to recreate.

We've talked a lot about how a bold powder room is the most coveted feature, and Drew has only further confirmed it with his newly revamped space. And there's so much to love about the design, from the not-quite color-drenched scheme to the unexpected ceiling and the DIY rope design. Here's a closer look at the space.

If there's anything we can all learn from color trends this year, it's that the idea of trying to make the tiniest spaces in our homes feel bigger is a wasted opportunity to create something truly special.

It's the jewel box theory – rather than trying to escape small proportions, you should embrace them and lean into the natural darkness and compact layout. And that's exactly what Drew, better known as Lone Fox, has achieved with his latest project, where color has become the true star of the show.

The Color

'I decided to dive in the other day and paint my bathroom this stunning, bold color here. This is called Rumors by Behr Paints, and I think it looks so good on the walls,' he explains in the video.

This deep red hue, which was actually Behr's Color of the Year last year, wraps the small space in warmth and drama. It exaggerates the coziness of the room, creating a real design moment that just cannot be achieved with lighter colors. And while the obvious choice would be to color drench the bathroom, he's gone for something a little bit different.

'I decided to paint the ceiling [with] Setting Plaster by Farrow & Ball. It made it feel like there was a window in the room, and the walls were bouncing off onto the ceiling, kind of giving it this pinkish tone, because sadly, this is a windowless bathroom,' he notes.

And it's such an impactful choice. Using this lighter color (but not white, and still warm) on the ceiling gives this illusion of a skylight above, creating a sense of brightness that instantly tricks the eye. It's also worth noting that he has avoided ultra-matte paint finishes, which is key to this light-bouncing look.

To add interest to the room, he decided to keep the black and white mosaic tiles on the bathroom floor, which adds a vintage nod and a touch of texture to the space. It's a subtle feature, but anything more could easily overwhelm the small space.

The DIY

It's not just the bathroom flooring that has been used to bring in texture – he also included one of his playful DIY moments here, too.

Instead of leaving the two pipe poles white, which would have really stood out like a sore thumb against the moody red walls, he decided to wrap them in rope to create a warmer, more textural look.

'I just added a little hot glue to the bottom and started wrapping it with rope. There really is no rhyme or reason to this; you're just going to keep going and going and going until it is fully wrapped with rope,' he explains.

The Decorative Details

And he's added some charming vintage details that really tie everything together. 'I also hung up this little cabinet that I've had for years and just have never put it anywhere, and a couple of pieces of art,' he adds, explaining how he got smart with toilet paper storage and added a touch of personality.

He's brilliantly blurred the lines between traditional style and playful design in this project. The wooden bathroom vanity topped with a marble countertop, paired with the silver mirror and brass lighting, adds a classic touch, while the oversized plant, rope detail, and bold color choices feel more playful.

'Super quickly and easily, I transformed my simple little bathroom into this, which I think looks so bold. Honestly, the color choice was so, so good. I love the rope accents and all the little details.'

Shop the Look

From the bathroom colors to the charming decorative details, this design proves that a windowless bathroom needn't hold back your scheme. You can go bold with your wall paint in a small space – Drew's choice to lift the room with the subtle pink ceiling paint proves that the right combinations can instantly elevate even the most compact room.

A bathroom is a space dedicated to rituals. It's where we get ready in the mornings and unwind in the evenings. It's the room where we enjoy relaxing bubble baths and carry out our all-important skincare routines.

Despite this, bathroom lighting can often feel a little sterile. Yes, we might light a few candles around the bath every so often, but the rest of the scheme focuses on overhead and vanity fixtures. But designers say it's time we start considering a bathroom lamp.

That's right, these cozier, more ambient light sources are making their way into our bathrooms, guest bathrooms, and powder rooms, and designers say it's the one thing that will instantly elevate your space. Here's why they say you should add a lamp, as well as a few chic buys we're loving.

A bathroom needs to be functional, but it should also be a space that you enjoy spending time in, that brings you relaxing comfort, and creates the perfect atmosphere for beginning and ending your day.

And lighting is so important for creating that sense of warmth and coziness. While overhead lighting is often rather bright, a lamp adds a warmer, more ambient glow. 'Warm, low-level lighting has an extraordinary ability to relax both the room and the person in it,' says Jo Plant, chief creative officer at Pooky.

'There’s nothing quite as jarring as stepping from the gentle glow of your living room into a bathroom that’s brighter than a film set; it wakes the brain up, spikes cortisol, and completely derails that wind-down moment. A small lamp helps bridge the gap beautifully, easing you into the space without flicking on the main lights and shattering the calm,' she explains.

If you've been keeping up with the emerging bathroom trends for 2026, you'll know that those relaxing, spa-inspired bathrooms are making a strong comeback. And it's a look that focuses on atmosphere, something lamps are key to creating.

'If you’re hoping to create more of a spa-like sanctuary at home, then introducing a rechargeable lamp into your bathroom is a wonderfully simple place to start. Pop one on a shelf, a cabinet, or a sideboard, anywhere that stays blissfully splash-free, and you’ll instantly soften the space,' says Jo

A lamp can be a charming addition to even the smallest bathrooms, too – even, perhaps unexpectedly, a powder room. And now is the perfect time to add these final touches ahead of a season of hosting.

'We love lighting layers and believe they can work in any room,' says Jessica Bennett, creative director at Alice Lane Interior Design, who says a powder room is the perfect place for a lamp. 'That’s where a lamp can make the most impact. It can act as a nightlight and is perfect to leave on while guests are over.'

In a guest bathroom, give the real hotel experience by layering a lamp with subtle motion sensor lights from Amazon, which you can easily install under a cabinet or at floor level for a soft, practical light source. The perfect pairing with a lamp to create that layered lighting Alice recommends.

In particular, cordless lamps that are small in size and easy to charge are an ideal choice for bathrooms and powder rooms, as they perfectly blend style and functionality, as Jo explains.

'It’s a truth universally acknowledged that powder rooms are often the final frontier in any decorating project, and lighting is usually the thing that gets left behind. A cordless lamp is the easiest way to banish gloomy corners and create a warm, welcoming glow, especially if you’re adding lighting after decorating,' she says.

'These petite spaces are also the perfect spot to inject a little personality. Mixing bases and shades lets you create something charming and unique to your home. As ever, just keep lamps clear of splashes and spills, but otherwise a rechargeable design is both stylish and wonderfully practical for cloakrooms.'

Pooky is the master of all things portable lighting. Their Genesis rechargeable cells can be paired with many of their cordless bases and shades for the chicest of flexible lighting. And of course, you have the viral Addison Ross Bobbin Lamps that not only add a soft lighting to your bathroom, but a pop of glossy color too.

There are a few things you need to consider before adding a lamp to any bathroom, regardless of size. Safety is something you always need to think about when it comes to lighting, especially in these damp rooms.

'IP-rated lights used to be terribly sensible and not terribly beautiful, but that’s no longer the case. The key is understanding which ‘zone’ you’re placing your lighting in, as that determines the IP rating you’ll need,' says Jo.

'A simple rule of thumb: the closer the light sits to water, the higher the protection required to avoid shocks or faults. Once you’ve got that in hand, you’re free to focus on the fun part: the style!'

When it comes to the style of lamp you add to your bathroom, be thoughtful about the materials you introduce and how they will wear over time. 'Depending on where you place it in your bathroom, and if it’s a powder bath or not, you’ll want to consider the material of the lamp and shade,' says Jessica.

'Due to steam, avoid paper or fabric shades in bathrooms that will be used for showering or bathing. If the lamp is a living material, such as brass, expect it to age. But we think that only adds to the beauty of the lamp,' she notes.

'Lamps can absolutely be placed in powder rooms as long as the scale is correct,' adds interior designer Mallory Mathison Glenn. 'I love to use a pair of antique porcelain jar lamps on a bathroom vanity. Custom shades to match the wallpaper are also a must!'

Shop Our Bathroom Lamp Edit

If your bathroom feels like it's lacking cozy appeal and warming ambience, this is your sign to add a lamp to your scheme. It's a small detail that makes such a difference to the appeal of the room, and has slightly more impact than a shower lamp – although they can make the perfect pairing. It's such an underrated type of bathroom lighting, but one you will never regret adding. Trust us!

It's no secret by now that my design style consists of two color palettes: neutrals and moody hues. So it probably comes as no surprise that anything pink is an immediate no, whether it's in my home or my wardrobe.

But when I saw Heidi Caillier's latest bathroom project, a pink room with her usual vintage flair, I wondered if I'd been too hasty in my rejection of this seemingly feminine hue. The bathroom might be pink, but it doesn't feel as girly or preppy as the color often suggests.

Instead, this bathroom feels elegant and refined, the perfect balance of soft and bold. And suddenly, I'm wondering if I've been wrong, that actually, pink might just be one of the chicest bathroom colors you can choose. Heidi certainly thinks so.

There are certain colors we most heavily associate with bathrooms – white for a neutral space and blue for a bolder design. But pink is perhaps the last hue most of us would choose, assuming it to be too sweet and feminine for an elevated space.

But all it takes is one design to prove that this often overlooked color actually has a place in our bathroom designs, and Heidi has made a strong case with this project that pink can be chic and sophisticated in the right space.

And she hasn't held back. Pink has been color-drenched across the paneled walls, the ceiling, and even the freestanding storage unit, creating an inviting atmosphere and the illusion of great space.

Why does it work? The almost earthy hue contrasts with the varying gray shades in the bathroom floor tiles, creating a more natural feel. The wall paneling adds depth to the design, taking the walls from flat to something more layered.

The vintage feel of the furniture and decor also helps to balance the colors here, creating a more timeless, elegant look. The traditional wash stand-style vanity adds to the elegance of the space and creates a less built-in feel.

The freestanding bathtub adds another layer of luxury, and paired with the vintage bath stool and natural rug, it feels elevated yet not overstated. It brings a more rustic texture to balance the more pristine pink wall color.

It's those natural materials and textures running through the design that tie everything together. From the bathroom rug to the storage baskets in the cabinet and even the blinds over the window, these natural woven finishes bring warmth and texture to the space.

And then there's the warm, metallic details scattered throughout. The base of the washstand and the vanity lights pair beautifully with the warm pink paint color, while the darker, aged finish of the cabinet hardware adds to the vintage appeal.

In her Instagram caption, Heidi describes the design as 'made to look like it’s been there forever,' and it sums the space up perfectly. It proves that this pretty palette has a place in our homes outside of a children's bedroom.

And after seeing this design, it's surprisingly become an alluring option for my bathroom. It's unexpected, but I think we can all agree that in the right design, it has all the makings of a chic color palette.

Shop the Look

Pink is the last color I thought would pique my interest, especially drenching a bathroom, but Heidi has once again proved that the right shades and styling can make even the most unexpected hues feel elevated and desirable. Could 2026 be the year pink finally makes a comeback?

There's a misconception that to create a layered, visually interesting bathroom scheme, you need to introduce color and pattern. And for the minimalists and the neutral-lovers, it's an approach that can really jar with their style.

But if you're looking for ways to add interest to your small bathroom this year, there's one detail that can make all the difference: texture. And designer Marie Flanigan has just taken to Instagram to remind us all that 'texture can be just as powerful as pattern.'

It's all about artful layering and a thoughtful approach to the areas where you introduce different materials and textures. Here's a closer at look at the space, and the cues you can take from Marie's timeless ethos.

Sharing a small bathroom from a recent project, Marie has proved that you don't need to fill your space with pattern to add interest. While it can be effective in the right room, if you prefer a more subdued palette, texture is key to an elevated scheme.

This tiny space is decorated with neutral colors, but Marie has introduced a mix of materials, all with unique textures, to really bring the space to life. It has just as much interest as a pattern, but in a more pared-back way.

'Texture becomes the story here,' Marie writes. 'The open weave of abaca brings quiet movement to the walls, its coarse strands catching light in subtle ways. Paired with natural stone, it creates balance as soft meets strong, organic meets refined.'

Every element is considered, from the wall finishes to the decorative details. As Marie explains, contrast is key here – natural, organic materials pair with rougher, more industrial finishes like concrete for a layered look. And there are a few places to focus your attention.

The Wall Finishes

In a small bathroom, the walls need to work harder. In Marie's design, she chose to introduce a textured wallpaper, Synamay Chalk Wallpaper by Mark Alexander, to bring warmth and tactility to the space.

But bathroom wallpaper is not the only option, although it is usually the most impactful and inviting. A textured paint finish, like limewash, will also add plenty of texture, although you will need to bring in a softer element somewhere to create contrast between the textures.

Similarly, wood paneling and tiles with an irregular finish (zellige is a great example) can also add that depth and tactile finish that bring a small bathroom to life. It's about choosing materials that add dimension to a room, rather than sticking to flat finishes.

The Sink

The sink is one of the few places in a small bathroom that you can really have fun. Instead of an average porcelain sink, opt for something more statement and textured, like stone.

Marie opted for a beautiful marble basin with really strong veining to bring in a different texture and create a subtle contrast to the wallpaper. Marble is a chic option for a timeless material that adds a sense of luxury, but there's no reason why you can't go even bolder.

A concrete basin not only adds maximum texture, especially in a small space, but it also creates a striking design moment. It's tactile and unexpected, and brings a different feel to the room, still without bringing in bold colors or patterns.

The Bathroom Lighting

No matter the size of your space, bathroom lighting is always essential. So why not have fun with it? A beautifully textured fixture can be the difference between a bland, boring space and something more visually interesting.

Marie opted for the Elliot Medium Dome Pendant from Lumens, a cement-look fixture. It's a much more industrial feature compared to the other materials in the space, adding a smoother texture to the design.

Textured glass can work just as well if you're not so keen on the concrete look. Look for fixtures with an interesting form, whether it's a fluted glass sconce, like the Mallory Crystal Sconce from Pottery Barn, or a ceiling light with hammered glass.

If you've gone more industrial with your sink or wall finishes, your lighting is an opportunity to bring in a softer texture, like a pleated linen or rattan shade, like Anthropologie's Twila Rattan Shaded Sconce.