Bathroom remodels have long been among the most popular home improvement projects, often ranking second only to kitchen renovations and consistently in the top five when factoring in exterior upgrades. This trend may grow even stronger in 2025 as homeowners increasingly view bathrooms as more than just functional spaces. Instead, they transform them into personal oases designed for comfort and relaxation, offering a retreat from the hectic world outside.
This article explores this year’s trending bathroom ideas, focusing on innovative design concepts and trends for 2025. Whether planning a renovation or struggling to keep up with the latest styles, this guide will help you stay informed and inspired.
Key Takeaways
- Bold Colors and Patterns Are Gaining Popularity
- Sustainable Materials and Upcycled Furniture Offer Eco-Friendly and Unique Design Options
- Accent Lighting Enhances Ambiance and Adds Depth to the Space
- Mixing Metals Is the New Norm
- High-Tech Features Like Heated Floors and Smart Fixtures Are Transforming Bathrooms
- Luxurious Spa-Inspired Elements Make Bathrooms a Relaxing Retreat at Home
Why Should You Remodel Your Bathroom?
The constant popularity of bathroom remodels shows how much homeowners desire this home improvement. Homeowners are often motivated to renovate their bathrooms for a few key reasons:
- Enhance Functionality and Comfort – Bathrooms are high-traffic areas that endure general wear and tear and accelerated deterioration due to constant exposure to humidity and moisture. To maintain a safe and functional space, professionals recommend a bathroom remodel every 10 years. This also provides an opportunity to adapt the space to your evolving needs and ensure it aligns with your lifestyle in both functionality and comfort.
- Improve Home Value with Modern Aesthetics—Bathroom remodels are some of the best renovation projects for increasing home value. With a 60-70% ROI, midrange bathroom remodels usually bring the highest ROI by incorporating contemporary design elements that emphasize a modern aesthetic.
- Create a Space for Relaxation and Long-Term Living – Homeowners planning to stay in their homes long-term often opt for unique features that transform their bathrooms into luxurious spa zones. Many also prioritize accessibility upgrades to ensure the space remains functional and convenient in case of mobility challenges in older age.
The Top Bathroom Remodel Trends in 2025
Covering every trend would make this article overwhelmingly long, so we’ve simplified things for you by curating the top bathroom remodel ideas for 2025. These highlights will give you a sense of what’s fresh in the bathroom design world and, most importantly, inspire your renovation project.
Freestanding Bathtubs as Focal Points
Bathtubs are increasingly seen as style statements in modern bathrooms. Freestanding bathtubs, in particular, can serve as a unique centerpiece while offering greater flexibility in design options. Choices range from compact single-ended tubs, ideal for small spaces, to deep soaking tubs that provide unmatched comfort and relaxation. One of the favorites is the clawfoot tub, perfect for those who appreciate antique charm. The intricately designed feet add a distinctive touch of elegance to any bathroom.
Choosing the bathtub’s color, texture, or material allows for an even more personalized look. The palette of colors for bathtubs is vast. What is also gaining popularity is using such materials as copper, stainless steel, and even concrete in bathtub designs.
Decorative Tiles: Patterns, Shapes, and Bold Colors
Tile selection can dramatically influence bathroom design, and in 2025, expect to see bolder choices and more experimentation. For those seeking decor ideas, this year offers plenty of inspiration and guidance for designing bathrooms with various trends, finishes, and styles. A noticeable trend this year is drawing attention either by pattern or color. If the tile shape is simple, its pattern or color will stand out, while more neutral colors are best paired with striking shapes to make a statement.
Patterns: If you want to add texture and feel to your bathroom space, don’t be afraid to experiment with patterns and unique tile layouts this year. Mosaic tiles, like penny round tiles, remain a trend that allows anyone to create a unique design. Consider also playing with the same glaze tiles stacked in different patterns, such as horizontal and vertical combinations.
For a timeless classic look, consider zellige tiles—handcrafted, usually square tiles with unique variations in shade. When installed, these tiles create subtle yet striking patterns, adding character and charm to your space.
Among the bolder options are additions of the maximalism style. This design trend incorporates unusual color combinations and vibrant bathroom tile and wallpaper patterns.
Shapes: In 2025, you will see multiple shapes in tiles, such as thin rectangular, square, and even up-and-coming curved and scalloped tiles. Also, not forgetting to mention the oversized natural stone tiles, which have gained more popularity since last year and are still expected to be seen in bathroom renovations. A specific trend for oversized tiles is covering the whole bathroom in stone, creating a cohesive and luxurious look.
Colors: Color is back in style. Plain white bathrooms may step aside for a bit, giving way to more immersing colors that create a welcoming and calming space in the bathroom. You can expect everything from natural limestone to calming earthy tones (deep green, charcoal) to bold jewel stone colors (emerald, ruby).
Nature-Inspired Materials: Wood, Stone, and Brown Tones
Many associate nature with relaxation, so we are preparing to see more natural materials integrated into bathroom decor to enhance the aesthetic appeal of bathroom spaces this year. Some of the favorite additions to bring in the natural look include:
- Natural stone sinks (incredibly unique stone colors);
- Slatted wood wall;
- Wood sinks;
- Bamboo furniture and decor details;
- Incorporation of plants and greenery;
- Earthy tones like brown and moss green;
- Large windows and natural light.
Smart Bathroom Features: Technology for Convenience and Comfort
As technology continues to integrate into homes, it’s only natural for it to find its way into the bathroom. High-tech upgrades don’t have to transform your bathroom into a futuristic space; instead, they can offer added comfort through subtle, hidden features.
Great smart additions to your bathroom remodel can be:
- Heated floors;
- Heated towel racks;
- Smart shower mixers;
- Wireless phone charging stations on counters;
- Water saving systems;
- Smart bidet toilets;
- Automatic lighting;
- Hidden cabinet outlets.
Sustainable Design: Eco-Friendly Fixtures and Materials
Sustainability remains a key trend for homeowners who aim to reduce their environmental footprint. Technology plays a significant role in making bathrooms more eco-friendly, with innovations like water-saving showers, tap mixers, and energy-efficient lighting. Rethinking your bathroom’s environmental impact helps you identify solutions to minimize its negative effects.
The eco-friendly movement also embraces materials like bamboo, reclaimed wood, and upcycled furniture. For example, repurposing an antique cabinet to hold the sink or using a wood log as a sink base in a small guest bathroom can add a unique touch. Old wood beams can also be transformed into functional shelves, offering both style and sustainability. These options of materials open up a door to unique designs that are trendy and functional.
Other Popular Bathroom Remodel Trends in 2025
Now that we’ve covered some of the more common bathroom remodel trends, let’s explore how interior designers are shaping contemporary bathroom aesthetics with unique yet still intriguing trends for 2025. If you’re seeking something different, these trends might just catch your eye.
Mixed Metal Finishes: Brass, Chrome, and Matte Black
Do you find it challenging to match the finishes of all fixtures, door knobs, and metals in your bathroom? It’s time to embrace the trend of mixing metals. In 2025, there is no longer a single dominant metal, unlike in previous years when matte black seemed to be everywhere. This year, expect to see a variety of metal finishes, often mixed with one another, for a unique and stylish effect.
Mixing metals creates a special look when done right and helps both finishes stand out and complement one another. However, when putting together metals, there are a few rules to remember.
- First, balance cool-tone and warm-tone metals to ensure proper contrast and harmony. Although it is often tempting, do not combine two metals in the same tone.
- Secondly, the metals should complement the bathroom’s overall undertone and create balance. Warm metals like copper or bronze work well in bathrooms with cool tones, while cooler metals like brushed nickel or stainless steel create a harmonious contrast in warmer-toned bathrooms.
- Thirdly, stick to the same metal within a unit. This means all fixtures should be in one metal within the room, and light sconces, for example, can have contrasting finishes.
Personal Home Spas: Creating Relaxation Zones
If you plan on making the home your long-term living place, consider turning your bathroom into a real spa zone. This trend often includes oversized enclosed showers, especially for two people, with rain shower heads, integrated benches, and freestanding bathtubs usually placed in the same enclosed shower area.
It is also probable to see more unique additions to the bathroom space, such as mini saunas, cold plunge baths, and wood or pebble stone shower floors. All these are tailored to the homeowner’s needs, and the sky is the limit regarding the spa features you may want for a luxurious bathroom experience.
Unique and Chic Shower Designs
Shower designs in 2025 will be both visually striking and highly practical. Two-person showers are growing in popularity, particularly in spacious walk-in areas with plenty of room. Adding shower niches is also common, especially when extended along the full length of the shower, offering more storage space while eliminating the need for shelves that often fall. The rainfall showerhead is also becoming a staple, providing a luxurious, spa-like experience.
Stylish Remodeling Ideas For Small Bathrooms in 2025
Think your small bathroom size limits your remodeling options? Don’t get discouraged. We’ve gathered some small bathroom trends offering inspiration and design ideas for efficient space utilization. These trends are tailored specifically for compact spaces that not only fit seamlessly but also enhance and maximize the space in ways you might not have imagined.
Maximizing Space with Integrated Storage
Updating your storage space is a perfect refreshment for a bathroom. Especially if you live in a family home and notice how quickly you run out of cabinet space.
Wall-mounted cabinets and shelves are an excellent way to combine style and functionality in your bathroom. Many modern designs emphasize clean, open spaces, often featuring just a mirror on the wall and a compact floating vanity. However, custom-built cabinetry is also on trend this year, whether you choose a full vanity or wall-mounted cabinets. The key is to create a cohesive design that fits seamlessly into your bathroom while maximizing the use of limited space.
Utilizing vertical space effectively is another excellent way to add extra storage space. Tall and thin floating cabinets will add that extra storage but not compromise the openness of the space. You can even incorporate the same material to tie the cabinet with another accent object in your bathroom, for example, choosing a marble color to match the bathtub or sink.
Smart Use of Lighting and Colors
Lighting can make all the difference in a small bathroom. Accent lighting is a must this season, as it enhances the atmosphere, highlights key design details, and adds depth by playing with shadows. Simple additions like LED strips in shower niches, cabinets, or along the floor can dramatically transform the look and feel of the space.
Choosing the right color for a small bathroom requires careful consideration, as the wrong choice can make the space feel even more cramped. Light, airy shades like white, taupe, light gray, and pale blue can help create the illusion of a larger, more open space.
Space-Saving Fixtures for Small Bathrooms
If your bathroom space is limited, consider replacing your bulky toilet and sink cabinet with space-saving wall-mounted options. This can be especially helpful in guest bathrooms where you do not need much storage space. Instead of a full sink vanity, consider a single-shelf vanity, which looks especially appealing when made from a thick wood slab. To maximize storage, you can complement this with small shelves installed above the toilet. Freeing up the floor space will make the room look cleaner and more open.
Wet Rooms: A Growing Trend for Small Spaces
More and more people desire to turn their bathrooms into wet rooms. This means that the shower is not enclosed but integrated with the rest of the bathroom in an open concept. This allows for a more convenient and easily accessible shower and frees up the space a bulky shower enclosure could take up.
A wet room remodel can accommodate both the shower and the bathtub, even in smaller bathrooms, creating a beautiful space. Not to mention the practicality of wet rooms, which have waterproofing throughout the shower and make water meses easy to clean.
Powder Room Remodeling Ideas
When it comes to powder room remodeling, it’s all about creating a luxurious oasis in a compact space. To achieve this, consider incorporating high-end materials and finishes, such as marble countertops, modern hardware, and sleek lighting fixtures. A small powder room can be transformed into a stylish retreat with the right design elements.
One way to add a touch of luxury to a small powder room is to install a wall-mounted sink or a pedestal sink with a decorative base. This will not only save space but also create a sense of elegance. Additionally, consider adding a statement light fixture, such as a chandelier or a sconce, to add ambiance and sophistication.
Another way to enhance the luxury feel of a small powder room is to incorporate natural stone or ceramic tile into the design. A marble or granite countertop can add a touch of sophistication, while a ceramic tile floor can provide a durable and easy-to-clean surface.
To complete the look, consider adding some decorative elements, such as a decorative mirror, a vase, or a piece of artwork. These elements can add a touch of personality to the space and create a sense of warmth and hospitality.
Bathroom Finishes
When it comes to bathroom finishes, there are many options to choose from. Two popular choices are natural stone countertops and modern hardware.
Natural stone countertops, such as marble, granite, and quartzite, are a popular choice for bathrooms because they are durable, easy to clean, and add a touch of elegance to the space. Marble countertops, in particular, are a popular choice for bathrooms because they are resistant to heat and scratches, and can withstand the moisture and humidity of a bathroom.
Modern hardware is another popular choice for bathrooms. Modern hardware, such as sleek faucets and drawer pulls, can add a touch of sophistication and style to the space. Consider choosing hardware with a matte or satin finish to add a touch of elegance to the space.
In addition to natural stone countertops and modern hardware, there are many other bathroom finishes to choose from. Ceramic tile, for example, is a popular choice for bathroom floors and walls because it is durable, easy to clean, and resistant to moisture and humidity. Glass tile is another popular choice for bathrooms because it is easy to clean and can add a touch of elegance to the space.
Bathroom Remodel Ideas on a Budget
If embarking on a complete bathroom remodel raises anxiety for your bank account, you should consider that not every remodel needs to break the bank. Utilizing wall space effectively in bathroom designs can enhance the overall aesthetics while maximizing functionality. Let’s overview some affordable but trendy remodel ideas you can implement to save money and transform your bathroom into a fresh and luxurious space.
Cost-Effective Material Choices
When saving up on a renovation, you must get creative with materials. The choices may not be as limited as you think; even affordable options can help you create a timeless look. For example, consider the porcelain and ceramic tiles that come in a plethora of designs and styles that can even replicate an expensive natural stone look for a fraction of the price.
Playing around with color is also a great way to save up on the style and shape of tiles. In this year’s bathroom trends, you can quickly come around a simple square tile shower in an extraordinary burgundy or moth green color, allowing the use of simple materials for a unique look.
If you like patterns but cannot afford mosaic or unique-shaped tiles, consider changing the pattern of plain subway tiles. Instead of sticking to the basic subway tile layout, turn the tile vertically and mimic the trendy thin vertical tile layout. You can also use the herringbone mosaic layout, which looks great when combined with a unique color.
DIY Upgrades for a Fresh Look
DIY is a great option to refresh the space on a budget. Although a lot of bathroom projects require expertise, there are some easy projects most people can undertake. Here are some options:
- Painting walls or adding wallpaper;
- Updating hardware (remember the guidelines for mixing metals that we discussed);
- Adding new light fixtures and accent lighting;
- Installing shelves above the toilet for extra storage and decor;
- Adding picture frames, etc.
Lighting Enhancements for Ambiance
Poor lighting can often make a bathroom feel dull and lack character. This year, there’s a strong focus on how lighting can transform and elevate the look and feel of a bathroom.
To easily upgrade your bathroom, focus on the lighting. Replace old light fixtures and make the new ones add character and charm to your design. Shop for affordable light fixtures or even search for some in antique or thrift stores. Remember the rule of three types of lighting that are needed for a functional and beautiful space:
- General lighting (for overall illumination in the room);
- Task lighting (for specific areas where you need good light, like in front of the mirror);
- Accent lighting (for decorative purposes and emphasis on unique features).
Essential Considerations Before You Start
Before starting a bathroom remodeling project, there are several essential considerations to keep in mind. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
- Determine your budget: Before starting a bathroom remodeling project, it’s essential to determine your budget. Consider the cost of materials, labor, and any necessary permits or inspections.
- Assess your needs: Consider how you use your bathroom and what features are essential to you. Do you need a double vanity or a separate shower? Do you want a freestanding tub or a walk-in shower?
- Choose a style: Consider the style of your bathroom and how it will fit with the rest of your home. Do you want a modern, sleek look or a more traditional, elegant look?
- Consider the layout: Consider the layout of your bathroom and how you can optimize the space. Do you need to move any plumbing fixtures or electrical outlets?
- Choose materials: Consider the materials you will use for your bathroom remodeling project. Choose materials that are durable, easy to clean, and resistant to moisture and humidity.
By considering these essential factors, you can ensure that your bathroom remodeling project is successful and meets your needs and budget.
What’s Next?
This article explored the exciting bathroom trends set to dominate in 2025, covering everything from layouts and tile patterns to fixtures, hardware, and beyond. We hope it gave you valuable insights into how bathroom design is evolving and inspired you with ideas for your own renovation project.If this article has prompted you to start a bathroom remodel, our professional team at Premier Remodeling in Chicago is ready to bring your vision to life. We specialize in transforming outdated bathrooms into stunning relaxation zones. With fast, reliable, and efficient service, we’ll have you enjoying your dream bathroom in no time. Contact us today for a free quote, and let’s get started!
