Learn the Latest Bathroom Design Features Popular with Homeowners

The pandemic gave us a renewed sense of the importance of having a functional and comfortable home. With more of us spending time at home with our families, many homeowners are remodeling their bathrooms to create relaxing, welcoming spaces for family and guests.

Many homeowners who undertake a master bathroom remodeling use their refreshed spaces to relax and unwind, with large showers and standalone soaking tubs being elements. Cleanliness and plenty of storage space are also requested additions when designing a bathroom remodel.

There are countless decisions you need to make when remodeling your bathroom. From selecting new finishes and designing adequate storage to accommodating aging family members, many homeowners focus on these elements when planning their new space with their designer.

To help you get started on your bathroom remodel, here are some of the most popular bathroom design features homeowners are requesting!

Common Reasons for a Bathroom Remodel

Before we jump in and discuss the current bathroom design trends, let's look at some of the most common reasons homeowners opt to remodel their bathroom spaces. Almost everyone deciding on a bathroom remodel is doing so to address frustrations with the style and functionality of their existing bathroom. In fact, when asked, over 30% of homeowners say the trigger for their bathroom remodel was because they could “no longer stand the old bathroom!”

The most common frustration is an old and outdated space. Around one-third of those queried say that insufficient storage is a significant issue, and around the same percentage say a small shower is a factor.

Top Bathroom Remodel Design Trends

While the reasons for undertaking a bathroom remodel can vary, the most popular design features homeowners seek are pretty consistent. Here are some bathroom design trends homeowners are looking for in their bathroom remodels.

Upgraded Showers

When it comes to the master bathroom, most homeowners are not looking for more space. In fact, most homeowners undertaking a bathroom remodel are fine with the size of the room. However, 54% seek to increase the size of their shower, and 45% look to change the floor plan. According to Houzz, nearly half (45%) of homeowners plan on using their spaces to relax and unwind, and a large shower is a perfect amenity.

Aging-in-Place

The baby boomers are retiring in record numbers. Many are still active and planning on staying in the family home as they age. Over 25% of homeowners surveyed say they need an aging-in-place bathroom to address the needs of aging family members. Elements like a wide curbless threshold in the shower allow for easy step-free entry or a wheelchair or walker. Multiple grab bars and benches offer support and stability, and a handheld shower makes showering safe and comfortable.

White Finishes

When it comes to materials and finishes, white leads the way. According to Houzz, white is the top color choice for vanities (32%), countertops (58%), and shower walls (46%). Homeowners want a sense of cleanliness in the bathroom, and an all-white color scheme works great! White also enhances light and gives the space a light, airy look. For introducing another tone, wood vanities (27%) and gray nonshower walls are also popular for introducing another color tone into your design.

Design Changes While Keeping the Same Footprint

Most homeowners (77%) choose to keep their bathrooms about the same during a bathroom remodel. It makes sense. Expanding into another room might not be an option. Adding space and moving plumbing and electrical can add to the cost, so most homeowners work with the space they have. While keeping the same footprint, 50% of homeowners opt for a large shower. Many homeowners will opt to change the layout, for example, relocating the shower.

Enhanced Home Systems

62% of homeowners choose to upgrade their home systems as part of their bathroom remodel. In fact, this is the number one element among homeowners. Home system upgrades can include ventilation upgrades, new heating systems like radiant floor heating, and tankless water heaters for continuous hot water.

Transitional Style Takes the Lead

One of the top triggers for bathroom renovations is outdated style. In fact, almost nine in ten homeowners (87%) change their bathroom style. The number one choice of 25% of homeowners remodeling the bathroom is transitional style. Transitional is followed closely by modern and contemporary at 16% each.

For Tub Lovers, Freestanding is the Ticket

One in four homeowners chooses to remove the tub during their renovation, often opting to increase the size of the shower instead. A majority of homeowners keep and upgrade their tubs. The freestanding acrylic soaking tub is the most popular style, material, and type.

As more of us are choosing to spend more time at home, homeowners are opting to improve and update the style and functionality of their homes. Creating a spa-like bathroom is a top choice for improving your family's quality of life and can add to your home's value.

If you're considering a bathroom remodel and live in the Madison, Wisconsin, area, call the experts at Degnan Design-Build-Remodel at (608) 846-5963. We are on top of all the latest design trends and can help you to take your bathroom to the next level of comfort and function! If you'd like to know more, we are always happy to answer your questions.