In 2021, the term “modern bathroom” is further going to develop to include new fixtures, as well as redefine age-old water room amenities. From novel designs of something as simple as a soap dispenser to high-tech shower cabins, here are the greatest bathroom trends for 2021.
Minimalism is still hip
Although it seems that the minimalistic interior is losing momentum, we are still going to see minimalistic bathrooms in 2021. The design is characterized by simple lines that run the length of the bathroom and an absence of decorative elements. Also, the color scheme is limited to two or three neutral colors.
The colors of 2021
Speaking of colors, dark colors are going to make a comeback in 2021. However, you won’t be buying black wall tiles or painting the ceiling black. No, black will be used as an accent in the details, as it goes well with vibrant tones.
In terms of texture, matte black textures are rather trendy. In fact, you can buy black faucets that give the impression of opulence.
When it comes to pastel colors, green or blue are still in vogue. These cool tones have a calming effect ideal for a room that is all about relaxation, both mental and physical. Light green and emerald blue are most pronounced when combined with rustic materials and metallic details.
In terms of neutral colors, beige and especially white are perennially popular. White is traditionally the color of bathroom accessories but you might want to experiment a bit with grey fixtures to add depth and shade, which becomes evident after dark.
Innovative heating
During the previous decade, underfloor heating and towel warmers were among the most innovative ways to heat the bathroom. However, there are more stylish ways to feel warm in 2021, as heaters now come in various shapes and colors. For instance, there are mobile towel racks that look like ladders. They can be moved around the bathroom and can be easily removed in summer to free up space.
Wood: A great natural material
This year, wood isn’t going to be the only material installed in bathrooms across the globe but it’s going to be the most natural one. The return to nature will this season be a return of nature, as wood can be used to cover floors (impregnated) and walls.
Furthermore, the little furniture inside the bathroom can be made from wood, including countertops. Of course, wood is an element that is combined with other materials, such as metal, to add luxury to the bathroom.
Apart from its durability, wood is cherished for its textures. Few bathroom materials have such a rich texture as wood. A wooden surface is never fully flat and furniture can be made into interesting shapes, defying conventionality.
Smaller wall tiles for mosaics
If there is a single element of bathroom design that would be labeled as outdated then those are square-shaped tiles. They are also white, which adds to their plainness but their color is not the real issue but rather their size.
Namely, smaller tiles are ideal for creating artwork, such as mosaics. Even if you are not a fan of wall art, subway tiles have a more modern look than conventional tiles. You can complement their look with a strip of colored tiles that would “circumnavigate” the bathroom.
Handmade tiles are gaining popularity
Apart from small tiles that can be made into interesting shapes, handmade tiles are becoming increasingly popular. Each tile is imperfect, which adds uniqueness and rich textures that industrial tiles could never possess. Since they are short of perfect, they go well with the natural grain of the wood.
The basic basin
We’ve mentioned earlier that black faucets are in but in reality, the basin and the faucets are going to be minimalistic in 2021. Classic in design, the washbasin, and the faucet can still be high-tech, with motion sensors that turn on the water.
As far as materials are concerned, a marble washbasin is somewhat better than a ceramic one. In larger residencies, double sinks are a trendy solution that allows two people to use the bathroom at the same time.
Marvelous marble
Speaking of marble, we must say it went out of fashion a couple of years ago. However, red, grey, and white marble are making a comeback, giving the bathroom an organic touch and elegance. Marble is a great material for seamless bathrooms, like most minimalistic water rooms. Like pretty much any other material, marble, and wood fit great together.
A high-tech toilet
The recent trend of installing bidets is not going to stop in 2021 but even conventional toilet bowls are going to become smarter. Of course, first perform toilet repairs to make sure it flushes correctly and then start sprucing up the toilet. From in-bowl lights to heated toilet seats, there are so many things you do to upgrade the toilet.
Natural stone for sinks
Traditionally, natural stone had been part of walls and floors but this year, we will see stone countertops and even stone sinks. Just like wood, stone is highly tactile, offering contrast against the backdrop of glossy bathroom tiles.
Large, square mirrors
If there is enough room above the vanity unit, you should hang a large mirror. The trend of a single, large mirror is a continuation of a trend from a couple of years back.
The practicality of a large window is more natural light inside the bathroom, as looking glasses reflect light. When it comes to the shape of the mirror, ovals are outdated, so go for a rectangular or square mirror.
Plantlife as a design feature
So far, we have discussed tiles and mirrors but did you know that plants are also considered interior design elements? By introducing the right plants in the bathroom, you are playing with interior design and you are ensuring the space is natural.
Of course, you shouldn’t go overboard with the number of plants, as just a couple of pots will do just fine. The list of plants suitable for such a humid environment includes various fern species, succulents, Pothos, Aloe Vera, etc.
Functionality and comfortability
Apart from an appealing design, functionality will be important in 2021, as it goes hand in hand with minimalism. Custom-made furniture should be placed in the bathroom since it ensures space is not wasted. For instance, there shouldn’t exist a half-meter gap between the washing machine and the wall. Other pieces include stools, poufs, armchairs, bath mats, and innovative lighting fixtures.
More than one source of light
Speaking of lighting, a single light bulb on the ceiling, albeit an LED one, won’t suffice. In 2021, bathrooms should have ambient lighting provided by several light sources. For instance, you can install an LED strip around the vanity mirror for easier shaving or applying makeup.
Nowadays, there are even waterproof lights that go inside the toilet bowl. They are ideal for late-night trips to the bathroom, as you won’t wake anyone up by turning on the lights. Especially interesting are hanging lights that are ideal for water rooms with high ceilings.
Storing away showers gels and lotions
A cluttered bathroom is a real eyesore. Shower bottles and lotion lying all over the place really hurt the look of a bathroom, so you need to store them behind closed cabinet doors. Hanging cabinets are ideal for storage, so use them extensively.
Having mentioned the importance of functionality, you should have a medicine cabinet that locks to prevent children from getting hold of dangerous chemicals. Furthermore, closed cabinets ensure that hair-dryers and other electrical devices don’t come in contact with water, i.e. steam.
High-tech showers and bathtubs
Whether you own a walk-in shower or a bathtub, it should feature at least one high-tech function. For instance, there are showers with a built-in massage system that helps you relax better. Moreover, there are showers with several heads that “massage” your body using water from all sides.
A bathtub can be high-tech too. Certain models offer the whirlpool function which creates a Jacuzzi-like feeling. Then there are hot tubs, which are not as expensive as they used to be. Also, they come in all shapes and sizes, so even a cramped bathroom in a small apartment can feel like a luxurious spa.
The gold metal for design
Metallic fixtures are the keyword for 2021 but in terms of color, homeowners have a wide array of choices. If you’re not a fan of matte black, then gold should be your color of choice. Gold reflects light creating a mirror effect, as well as injecting the bathroom with industrial style.
There are even matte and satin gold taps on the market, which are ideal for opulent water rooms. However, these fixtures aren’t expensive, as they are usually made from affordable metal. If you install a “golden” faucet, you will be traveling in time back to 1970, when this was the standard.
We have listed only 17 great bathroom design trends for 2021 but many more will be unexpected. Designers might come up with a sophisticated and stylish soap dispenser, for example, that would take the world by storm. Howe, from small tiles to innovative and functional toilet designs, you cannot go wrong with our suggestions.
BIO:Ron Wolf is a hobby designer and a DIY enthusiast, and, above all, a very blessed father of two. Besides that, he has a strong passion for writing. He is a featured blogger at various blogs and magazines in which he shared his research and experience with the vast online community. If he is not working he enjoys being outside with his family. Hiking, bike riding, and BBQing are always a thing for him. In the evening, he likes to watch documentaries or build something with kids in their lego corner.
