Free-standing soaking tubs offer a unique focal point in the bathroom—instantly creating a wow factor and leaving a lasting impression. Photo: Wildwood Kitchens and Baths
A designer at Wildwood Kitchens and Baths shares how to enhance your bathroom.
It can be easy to put our design focus on guest-facing rooms in the home: the kitchen, the living room and maybe the guest bedroom. But bathrooms—especially those part of a primary suite—are having a huge moment, says Janel Swanson, owner of Wildwood Kitchens and Baths, her Lake Elmo design-build firm. “Fifteen years ago, bathrooms were more utilitarian,” Swanson says. “Now, people are wanting more of a sanctuary for some alone time and relaxation time.”
So what are some design trends for bathrooms we can embrace? We asked Swanson for her predictions and favorites as we look at what’s happening with bathroom design this year and beyond.
Large-format Tile and Stone Panels
“In general, we’re seeing people choose higher-end materials for tile and stone,” Swanson says. “And a lot less grout. People just want less maintenance and cleaning.” She and her team are installing shower panels (like Wilsonart’s Wetwall system) for more modest budgets and large panels of marble or quartz in less cost-conscious spaces.
Walk-in Showers
Recently, Swanson says, clients are opting to tear out their traditional built-in tubs and not replace them—instead, they devote the newfound square footage to a large, walk-in shower with high-end stone or tile. “We might add a bench because there’s more space,” Swanson says. “We also see a lot of rain showerheads and multiple showerheads—like a handheld and a body spray.” She’s also seen custom niches and ledges installed, often with integrated lighting, to keep shampoo-bottle clutter contained.
Soaking Tubs and Wet Rooms
For folks who still want a tub, the trend is to install a free-standing soaking tub (deep enough for an adult to get most of their body under the warm water). “We also see whole ‘wet rooms’, where there’s a free-standing tub within the shower enclosure, all in one area behind the glass,” Swanson says. She notes that clients who want to age in their homes are also installing built-in tubs with a wide surround or deck. “Having an area where there’s a ledge to sit on can really help you ease your body in and out of the tub,” she says.
Mixed Metals
Goodbye, nickel; hello, matte black and bronze. Swanson says mixed-metal faucets, towel hooks and mirror frames can keep a bathroom’s look from being too one note. “Different manufacturers also make different colored brass,” she says. “So it can be hard to match them.” Doing a combination of black and brass (or gold, another trending metal) works well.
Luxe Details
Bathrooms should feel as welcoming and thoughtfully designed as any other room. Swanson says she’s seeing a trend toward high-end details, from eco-friendly toilets and faucets to textured, 3D tile backsplash behind a vanity. Bold wallpaper, used judiciously on an accent wall, is also having a moment. “Other than those details, we’re seeing a neutral color palette,” Swanson says. “People want a natural, organic look.” If a bathroom has windows, Swanson says, it makes sense to use frosted glass rather than blinds or shades that need to be cleaned. “That way, you can still have the light coming in,” she says.
Wildwood Kitchens and Baths
12445 55th St. N., Lake Elmo; 651.363.3150
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