Even in the most rustic of homes, we are finding that bathrooms (especially master bathrooms) are designed to be more clean, timeless and sophisticated…sometimes with rustic or other accents, but not always. Lighter, neutral tones are typically used and kept to a minimum for a more monochromatic, soothing and almost spa-like look and feel.
Large, walk-in tile showers (with no door) in the bathroom have become a necessity. If a shower is large but can’t be a true walk-in, we are seeing glass doors used to maintain an “open concept.” We are seeing more and more people even decide against a tub in order to fit a larger shower in the space. Along with the “less is more” concept, we are seeing larger tiles on floors and flowing that same tile into the shower or using a tile that blends well with the flooring used throughout the room. Subtle shower tile accents (if any) keep with the overall clean look. These spaces are natural, neutral and calming with rustic, organic, contemporary or other accents used throughout to bring your design personality into the space.
An open and airy master bathroom is almost always a must with large windows for abundant light. With these windows comes the need for blinds or window coverings that close from the bottom up to maintain privacy while still allowing the light to come through. The toilet in a master bath is tucked away in its own “toilet room” with a privacy door.
We are seeing an equal amount of both painted and stained cabinetry in bathrooms and also an equal amount of Granite and Quartz countertops; it completely depends on the style the homeowner is going for. Storage has become a necessity throughout the bathroom to keep items organized and includes double sinks/vanities, linens and separate make-up counters. Lighting (whether vanity lighting or chandeliers) adds to the overall style of the room.
Also, in master bathrooms, don’t forget the “little details” like in-drawer outlets for certain toiletries, specialty beauty accessory storage (a drawer with space for plugged-in blow dryers, curling irons, etc) and robe and towel hooks placed in or directly outside of the shower and/or near the tub.
Guest Bathrooms and Powder Rooms are areas where our homeowners seem to have some fun and include unique style and décor. After all, in most cases, these rooms don’t have to be overly functional on a daily basis. Natural Edge wood vanity tops (in many cases, handcrafted by our team for our clients from a tree that had to be removed from the property) has become a popular focal point in these smaller bathrooms. You might add an aged brick accent wall, a bold light fixture, a pop of color or texture on the cabinet, unique flooring, ceiling beams or a vessel sink to add character and distinctiveness to these smaller spaces.
No matter what style you decide to go with in your bathroom, we always recommend that you stay away from anything you might get sick of. Most of our clients are building their “forever home” and this is a bathroom you’re going to use on a daily basis for a long time. Stick with neutral tones and choose things that will look good today and still be in style years from now. Also steer clear of current trends that will be outdated before you know it. Add rustic or other style elements in things that are timeless. For instance, maybe a rustic hickory cabinet, a natural edge wood vanity top, an accent wall with logs, brick or shiplap, a rustic light fixture, unique natural flooring, a tree stump sink pedestal, etc. The “rustic” (or whatever specific style you are after) doesn’t have to overpower the room…its always better when it’s an accent that acts as a focal point.
Don’t forget to consider moisture! If you are looking to add wood on the walls make sure you are conscious about keeping the bath fan on after showers. You can have your HVAC contractor install a de-humidistat that is set at a certain humidity level so your fan will run until the humidity reaches the level it is set at. This is a great option for families with kids as many times they forget to turn the fan on. Also, make sure to install water proof flooring, like ceramic tile or luxury vinyl tile, to ensure you don’t have any moisture issues with the floor.
Bathrooms are an important space in every home… be sure they are carefully thought out and designed around both function and style that will last.