May 3, 2016 (Gephardt Daily/Family Features) — Although they’re often the smallest rooms in the house, they’re also among the most essential and most commonly remodeled spaces. When you approach design with both function and style in mind, you can elevate your bathroom to be much more than an afterthought.
While the bathroom is a space where function matters greatly, that’s no reason to skip adding personal touches to the space. From fixtures and decor that reflect your personality to accessories and features that fit your lifestyle, you can incorporate details that make your bathroom as much about you as the rest of your home.
The focal point of many bathrooms is the cabinetry, and the array of products available today make it possible to create nearly any look you can imagine.
If a remodel is in your plans, consider these in-the-now design trends to help create a bathroom retreat that blends your individual style with everyday luxury.
Contemporary style. Whether it’s a desire to capture the classic Zen spa style at home or simply a growing penchant for modern interiors, the bathroom is no exception for those who gravitate toward contemporary design. Cabinetry featuring clean styles, sleek hardware and full overlay doors lend well to a contemporary look. Add complementary lighting and fixtures, and keep accessories and decor simple and clutter-free to round out the look.
Painted cabinetry. Many a bathroom has fallen victim to monochromatic monotony. Fortunately, these days more bathrooms are getting a fresh look filled with colorful expression. If you’ve considered the cabinetry off-limits before, now is the time to brighten up your bathroom and make a statement with boldly hued woodwork. For a more subtle look, glazed richly toned stains may be the answer. Take another step toward this color-friendly style with neutral painted finishes and paints with glazes. Or go all-in with fully custom painted cabinetry.
Floating vanities. In keeping with the trend toward modern motifs, floating vanities provide a clean, minimalistic appearance in a contemporary design. Particularly in a smaller room, this open, airy look is a stylish alternative to the pedestal sink as it lends an illusion of space while bringing expanded flooring into view. Paired with the proper cabinetry and color scheme, the floating vanity can work equally well in a transitional design.
Storage solutions. From pull-outs, tilt-ups and roll-outs to hidden outlets, simplified storage is in big demand, according to the National Kitchen & Bath Association’s 2016 Design Trends Report. Keeping clutter off the counter is easier than ever with clever storage solutions such as accessory base pullouts or toe kick drawers that create an extra place to stow your bath essentials in the space below the cabinet. Another solution to a common problem, the U-shaped sliding shelf wraps around the sink plumbing to hold towels, soaps and hair accessories, providing easy access to stored items while maximizing storage space inside your vanity.
Find more inspiration and planning tools to create your ideal bathroom retreat at wellborn.com.