These lovely modern bathroom designs will make you want to change your style to something more current.
Making the switch to a modern bathroom idea isn’t as difficult as you might think. You can change from switching to an electronic toothbrush to investing in the latest spa-like equipment.
If your bathroom is in desperate need of some TLC, we’re here to tell you how simple it is to give it a makeover. Rather than destroying your plan and starting over, a simple ‘tweak’ here and there can give an aged area a much-needed lift.
1. UPDATE THE OLD WITH COPPER, CHROME OR GOLD
If there’s one quick way to bring your bathroom scheme bang up to speed – it’s by adding a metallic accent.
While copper is reminiscent of the industrial era, it’s having quite the resurgence. Word has it that the cool kids are using this rose-gold hue in coffee shops, cute co-working spaces and the like. So why not revive your bathroom with this modern bathroom design?
But if the idea of a copper scheme is too akin to tin, then gold and chrome schemes are much subtler shades to work metal magic with. Think faucets, towel rails and lighting fixtures as classic ways to introduce metal into your bathroom without being too intrusive or tacky.
2. COMBINE MULTIPLE TRENDS FOR A MODERN BATHROOM DESIGN
If you took sociology in high school, you may remember Henry Ford uttering the words: ‘You can have any car you want, as long as it’s black’. Thankfully, we’ve since progressed from that rigidity and instead are provided with lots of opportunity to personalize our possessions.
More recently we’re going against the grain and leaving the conventional rules of interior design behind. For example, just because you have a period home, it doesn’t mean that modern bathroom decor is off the cards.
And in this act of rebellion, we’re taking to social media to show off our pads.
Kathy Smith, Managing Director of SBH Radiators says: ‘Many interior renovation Instagram accounts are showing ultra-modern homes being turned into traditional havens using wall paneling and bold striking colors.’
While Sophia Charalambous, Founder of Bathroom Origins explains the ‘transitional design’ movement is taking hold.
She says: ‘Typically, it refers to meshing modern with traditional, but it can also mean mixing different genres, such as edgy industrial with country cottage.
‘Using transitional design is a great way to create unique bathrooms that truly reflect your individual style.’
3. ADD A MODERN BATHROOM MIRROR TO MAKE A STATEMENT
Appearances matter when it comes to modern bathroom ideas, so why not begin your decor journey with a statement mirror? These days, mirrors aren’t just a pane of glass to check your make-up or teeth. No, there’s so much more to consider.
So whether you decide to pick up an ornately-framed mirror to create a focal point in your washroom, or opt for a smart mirror with steam-free settings – let the options available reflect your interior personality.
4. MAKE YOUR BATHROOM STORAGE WORK HARDER WITH A MODERN BATHROOM IDEA
Whilst our bae Jeff Bezos has been giving us almost-instant access to cult beauty products using Amazon Prime, you might be struggling to know where to store those essentials.
A modern bathroom cabinet idea is the way forward to stow away your prized products. One way to do this is by incorporating LED lighting into your storage to add visibility.
Alternatively, take inspo from Khloe Kardashian X Home Edit’s popular pantry design which blew up on social media.
She used clear canisters, turntables, acrylic bins and woven baskets to create a contemporary way to consolidate her goods. This is a particular good for a small bathroom storage idea to de-clutter your space in a dash.
5. GET CREATIVE WITH COLOR AND PATTERN
If the thought of a neutral bathroom makes you yawn with boredom, then look to bold colors and abstract patterns to give your bathroom a pop!
While dark bathroom ideas have had their time on the ‘gram, it’s time to make way for eye-catching designs and bright colors that deserve that double-tap.
This swoon-worthy zesty lime green shower screen is ticking all the boxes with its, contrasting yet clean red and black lines. In the words of a fashion-forward millennial, it’s ‘giving us life’.
6. MAKE YOUR BATHROOM SPEAK UP WITH A SLOGAN
As the world becomes more and more technologically-advanced each day, we’re becoming increasingly communicative souls that like to speak up. And, it’s not just through micro blogging sites or by telephone that we’re using our voice. We’re taking to our interiors to express our opinions, add a cheeky bit of character or cleanse our souls with a few affirmations.
So say it with your whole chest by incorporating signage and slogans in your modern bathroom idea. Whether tongue-in-cheek or a quirky quote from a famous face you can get the conversation and giggles going.
Thankfully, you can adapt this signage to suit your interior scheme. As a kitsch bathroom lighting idea, set the scene with a modern neon sign. Or keep things clean in a traditional bathroom design with a framed wall print.
7. OPT FOR ATMOSPHERIC LIGHTING
Lighting is key if you’re designing a bathroom with relaxation in mind. Avoid bright, overpowering illumination, and instead, opt for something with a warmer light and a more understated feel. Industrial-style designs make the perfect addition to a contemporary bathroom. For more on how to choose bathroom lighting go and have a read of our expert guide.
8. GO MODERN AND SAVE TIME WITH GREYSCALE PANELS
In a world where many of us are time-poor and tech savvy, we’re often on the lookout for quick and foolproof ways to renovate our interior spaces. So rather than getting our hands dirty (or those of a laborer if budget permits), waterproof paneling proves a grout-free game-changer for upgrading our bathrooms.
With no need to prepare existing wall spaces, post formed panels are easy to affix and take considerably less time than tiling surfaces. We love these cool concrete-like tones by Mermaid Panels for an on-trend nod to industrial chic.
9. EXPERIMENT WITH TEXTURE
While a sleek, fuss-free scheme is a great starting point for a modern bathroom, you’ll want to consider experimenting with texture and visual effects to create a unique space. Despite its characteristically minimalist feel, this bathroom is given its own personality with a statement house plant.
10. OPT FOR MODERN BATHROOM TILE DESIGNS
Looking for modern bathroom ideas that still incorporate some pattern and interest? An on-trend, geometric bathroom tile scheme makes a striking feature in a modern bathroom. Consider opting for a monochrome version if you want a muted finish, but team it with brass fittings to add a warming note.
11. BUILD A FOCAL POINT INTO YOUR MODERN BATHROOM DESIGN
An intricate monochrome wall mural in this small modern bathroom creates a stunning focal point, drawing the eye and creating the illusion of a longer space – a great trick if you’re looking for small bathroom design ideas.
12. ADD COLOR TO A CONTEMPORARY BATHROOM WITH ACCENT FEATURES
With grey and monochrome schemes often favored for more contemporary bathrooms, going for an accent feature is a great modern bathroom idea as it adds both color and interest to the room. Mustard yellow or blush pink are on-trend additions to a grey scheme.
‘Often, homeowners automatically opt for pure white bathrooms to give the illusion of spaciousness. However, pint-sized spaces can lend themselves well to a strong color.’ comments Helen Shaw, Benjamin Moore UK Director.
‘If your bathroom doesn’t benefit from natural light, rich colors can play with artificial lighting sources to make a strong style statement. Painting bathroom furniture in the same tone can add to the dramatic effect of a dark bathroom, add accents of interest with your choice of brassware and accessories’
13. INCORPORATE NATURAL MATERIALS FOR AN EASY MODERN TWIST
If you’re after modern bathroom ideas that are contemporary but also warm and welcoming, bringing natural materials is key. Adding wooden accents into a sleek, cool-toned scheme is a brilliant way to add texture and interest to a modern bathroom without compromising its minimalist feel.
14. DESIGN AN OPEN SPACE
When you’re designing a modern bathroom, prioritize creating an open and spacious feel. A walk-in wet room is a good way to go as it helps keep the layout as streamlined as possible. Zones can still be distinguished within it without detracting from the open feel.
15. CREATE A DESIGN FEATURE USING HOUSE PLANTS
The easiest modern bathroom idea going, is to add loads of house plants.
Whether you’re looking to make a design feature with a statement species – we love the addition of a slightly unruly house plant to an otherwise streamlined space – or prefer something a little more understated, our house plants guide will tell you everything you need to know about house plants, so that you can choose a species that suits.
