TRENDS TO SOAK UP
Take it serene or eclectic in these two bathroom looks with longevity
The number of people doing home fix-ups and renovations has risen greatly over the last two years. Spending more time at home has put a demand on performance and style in some of the hardest-working rooms, including the bathroom. The desire for a well-functioning and attractive bath indicates a desire to look after ourselves and be surrounded with beautiful things, even in the smallest and busiest room of the house.
Here are two of my favourite 2022 bath trends that I believe will have some longevity. (By that, I mean they will look great for at least five to 10 years.) Serene or eclectic? Let me know which one works best for you.
TREND 1: GO SERENE
Choosing a monochromatic look for the bathroom — meaning finishes that are similar in colours and tones — creates a calm appearance. For bathrooms without windows, I suggest lighter tones, but if you have lots of natural light pouring in, consider going deeper.
Warm beige and cream colours are on trend in home decor (replacing grey) as neutrals. Team warmer colours in paint, tile and cabinetry with warm metal tones for faucets, lighting fixtures and hardware. Warm burnished or brushed gold adds glamour to a room and keeps the warmer colours flowing.
The look of natural stone is the way to go on not just countertops, but walls, floors and even the fronts of cabinetry. Using one material (stone, wood, tile) everywhere is a guaranteed way to keep the overall look uncluttered and visually relaxed.
Tip: To achieve serene, choose no more than three finishes to decorate the room — for instance, creamy marble, soft metallic gold and warm white. Then build your decorating storyboard from there.
TREND 2: ECLECTIC BATH
For those who love many decor styles — and love to decorate — this look is for you. Patterned tiles, punches of dark accents (for faucets and lighting, for example) and lots of contrast with colour are great ways to give personality to an eclectic bath. Choosing different patterned tiles for floors and walls can help achieve the look. Larger patterned tiles go best on floors, while a smaller pattern will be better on walls.
Metal accents such as lighting, faucets and hardware are like jewelry for the room. Dark bronze or black will stand out and be on trend, and will add a punch of dark contrast in a small room.
Are you a lover of colour? Incorporate one of your favourite colours in a tile or countertop, and then use its complementary colour for smaller accessories. For instance, deep blue tiles will co-ordinate nicely with yellow or lime green to add a push-pull of colour.
Tip: If renting, consider adding colourful wallpaper and a statement rug to a boring bathroom. It's an excellent way to add pattern and bold colour without the commitment and cost of stone or tile.
These three design directions will work in an eclectic or serene look:
1. Bring in natural elements like stone or wood.
2. To soften the overall feel, introduce rounded shapes, from tub edges to sinks and faucets.
3. Hang a wall-mounted vanity. They help show off more floor space to make a smaller bathroom appear larger.
Do you have a decor dilemma or want to give feedback?
You can contact Karl on Instagram @karl_lohnes.