Top bathroom trends of 2021
Read time: 4 minutes
1. Sophisticated lighting schemes
It’s no secret that a great lighting plan can make or break a space, and bathrooms are no exception. In 2021 we’re expecting to see lighting evolve past sconces and harsh downlights to make use of more intentional lighting choices. Integrated lighting that takes advantage of LED technology will lead the way, with backlit mirrors and lighting underneath floating vanities being used to bring a touch of warmth and luxury to any bathroom.
2. Textured tiles
Printed patterns, 3D reliefs and sculptural tiles will feature heavily in 2021. These gorgeous tiles will be used to add a new sense of dimension and texture, both on the floor and walls, and we expect to see them playing off integrated lighting options very nicely.
3. Striking block colours
Say goodbye to bathrooms finished in nothing more than shades of white and grey. This year we’ll see much braver colours on our palettes. Reds, pinks, greens – whatever your favourite colour is, bold blocks of it will be right at home as the statement piece of your new bathroom.
4. A touch of nature
A dash of natural texture will serve as the counterpoint to your bold colour scheme. Think timber finishes on the vanity, stone baths and basins, and wood-look or marble tiles. A helping of natural materials will be the perfect element to round out and soften your bathroom’s aesthetic.
5. High-tech bathrooms
Technology has made its way into every corner of our lives, and that includes the bathroom. High-tech bathroom fittings have been available for years, except now they’re affordable and you’ll start to see more bathrooms making use of them. That includes thermostatic shower mixers, adjustable in-floor heating, smart toilets with bidet and auto-cleaning functions, mirrors that automatically demist themselves, heated towel rails and motion-sensing faucets.
6. Bringing the outdoors in
After spending so much time indoors during 2020 it should be no surprise to hear that we’ll be bringing the outdoors in this year. To accompany those splashes of natural materials, bathroom designs will see an overhaul that makes use of large windows and glass doors that help to blend the indoors with the out.
7. Dark tapware
Matte black fittings have been a favourite for years – and for now the dark tapware trend is here to stay – but 2021 will bring some new variation with it. Tapware and fittings in nickel, bronze and weathered brass will take over where matte black left off, still offering that modern and sleek look while making room for some new ideas and mixing new materials into our design repertoire.