At Alan Heath & Sons, we love to stay on top of the current and emerging bathroom trends so that we’re always ready to provide our customers with the latest and greatest in bathroom design.
As we’re now nearly halfway through 2024 (we know, we can’t believe it either!), we thought it would be the perfect time to take a closer look at the trends that are leading the way so far this year.
Minimalist trends
In recent years, there’s been a pretty big shift towards minimalistic homes, and the bathroom is no exception. Embracing simplicity, functionality, and clean lines, minimalist bathrooms offer a serene oasis within the home. One notable trend within this aesthetic is how it tends to favour walk-in showers.
The appeal of walk-in showers lies not only in their sleek appearance, which is ideal for a minimalist look, but many tend to enjoy how they’re generally easy to maintain. With minimal nooks and crannies for grime to accumulate, cleaning becomes that bit easier – a welcome relief in our fast-paced lives!
Plus, walk-in showers cater to a diverse demographic. While they provide accessibility for older generations, younger homeowners are also drawn to their contemporary allure. The versatility of walk-in showers allows for plenty of customisation too, making them a popular choice for those seeking a personalised bathing experience.
Just make sure to have a chat with professionals (like us!) as the materials used in a walk-in shower can vary and some are much easier to maintain than others. We also recommend making sure your design choices match your lifestyle, so you don’t get stuck doing extra bathroom maintenance if that’s just not your thing or you lack the time to commit to it.
Vintage and eclectic styles
Like any kind of style, we tend to see trends come and go, and vintage is now making a comeback! Inspired by trends like “cottagecore”, we’re seeing plenty of nostalgia-evoking trends reappearing, from retro-inspired tile patterns to quirky fixtures.
Vintage tile patterns, in particular, have experienced a resurgence in popularity. From intricate mosaic motifs to bold geometric designs, these tiles add a touch of whimsy and charm to any bathroom. Paired with contemporary elements, such as sleek fixtures and minimalist accents, vintage tiles create a harmonious blend of old and new, making your bathroom both stylish and functional.
Eclectic styles, on the other hand, celebrate individuality and creativity. By mix and matching elements—think a Victorian-era bathtub against industrial-inspired lighting—homeowners can create bold spaces that reflect their unique tastes and personalities
High-tech bathroom features
As technology continues to creep into every aspect of our lives, it’s no surprise that it has found its way into the bathroom as well. High-tech features, once reserved for luxury hotels and spas, are now becoming increasingly accessible to homeowners.
Smart showers, equipped with customisable temperature settings and programmable presets, offer a personalised bathing experience like never before. Automated temperature controls ensure comfort, while integrated speakers allow for a sensory escape, complete with all of your favourite tunes, podcasts, or audio books!
In addition to smart showers, we’re seeing clever bathroom innovations on the rise such as waterproof wall boards and motion-activated taps. These features not only enhance convenience, and can be fantastic for those living with disabilities, but also contribute to the overall sustainability and longevity of the space. After all, when you invest lots of money in a quality bathroom, you expect it to stand the test of time.
Space and accessibility
We’re also seeing a move towards bathrooms that focus heavily on space and accessibility. For example, you can decide to have a wall-hung basin fitted which is precisely what the name suggests— a basin that is mounted directly onto the wall, without the need for a pedestal or vanity unit. This minimalist approach not only makes the bathroom appear larger but also allows for easier cleaning by eliminating hard-to-reach areas around the base.
Inclusivity is a cornerstone of modern design, and nowhere is this more evident than in the push for accessible bathrooms. Taller toilets are typically 80mm higher than standard toilets, making them more accessible and comfortable for people of all ages and abilities. The added height reduces the strain on joints and muscles, making it easier for users to sit down and stand up—a particularly important consideration for older adults or individuals with mobility issues.
Eco-friendly bathrooms
Environmental consciousness is on the rise, which means that sustainability has become a driving force even in design. And nowhere is this more evident than in the bathroom, where small changes can have a big impact on our planet.
From eco-friendly materials to water-saving fixtures, homeowners are increasingly prioritising green solutions in their bathroom renovations. Bamboo flooring, reclaimed wood vanities, and recycled glass tiles are just a few examples of sustainable materials gaining traction in bathroom design.
Inspired by these trends and ready to bring your dream bathroom to life? Contact us today, we’d love to help!