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5 Bathroom Trends You'll Probably Regret in 5 Years, According to Designers

Rita A Sladack

When it comes to bathroom design, what's trendy today might not stand the test of time.

Interior designer sketch by Rita A Sladack showing a contemporary bathroom layout. The design includes a floating double sink vanity, a separate glass-enclosed shower, and a freestanding bathtub. The sketch uses clean lines and minimal details to convey a modern, spacious bathroom concept.
Elegant simplicity: Rita A Sladack's contemporary bathroom concept featuring a floating double vanity, separate shower, and freestanding tub.

Anybody who has renovated their bathrooms knows that it can be a rewarding yet challenging experience, filled with decisions about design, materials, and functionality that ultimately transform a simple space into a personal oasis. While it's tempting to embrace the latest styles, some current bathroom trends may lead to regret in just a few years. Here are five popular bathroom design choices that designers warn against:

1. Open Concept Layouts

Open-concept bathrooms can create a luxurious, spa-like feel, but they often compromise privacy and practicality.

A spacious, open-concept bathroom in an industrial-style loft. The room features exposed brick walls and large factory-style windows. A freestanding white bathtub takes center stage, positioned near the windows. To one side, there's a glass-enclosed shower area. The flooring appears to be polished concrete, maintaining the industrial aesthetic. Modern fixtures and minimalist decor elements contrast with the raw, industrial backdrop, creating a unique blend of styles.
Industrial chic meets spa-like luxury in this open-concept loft bathroom, where raw materials blend seamlessly with modern comforts

Your designer might caution you that open layouts might compromise privacy, especially if you have guests or family members around. Also, consider the humidity and moisture levels that bathrooms naturally have. An open layout can expose your bedroom to these elements, potentially affecting furniture and decor. Before committing to an open-concept bathroom, carefully consider how it will impact your comfort, privacy, and the longevity of your bedroom furnishings.

2. Intricate Tile Patterns

While beautiful, intricate tile designs can quickly become dated. Mosaic patterns that are super high-maintenance or overly intricate, like those "natural stone" designs that aren't even found on Earth, might not mesh well with future design trends.

A beautifully designed shower showcasing hexagon mosaic tiles in a modern bathroom. The tiles create a visually striking pattern on the walls and floor, enhancing the overall aesthetic. Natural light filters in, illuminating the intricate details of the tile work, while sleek fixtures complement the contemporary style. The combination of textures and shapes adds depth to the space, making it a luxurious retreat.
Stylish sophistication: A stunning shower featuring elegant hexagon mosaic tiles that elevate the bathroom's design.

This could mean you’ll have to shell out a lot for renovations sooner than you thought. Instead, opt for simpler, timeless tile choices that allow for flexibility in updating the overall aesthetic without significant investment.

A hand-drawn sketch of a traditional-style bathroom layout, featuring intricate tile patterns and classic fixtures.
Timeless elegance unveiled: A meticulously sketched traditional bathroom design by Rita A Sladack
an array of traditional tile options, including subway tiles, decorative borders, and mosaic accents. The sketch and samples together illustrate a cohesive design concept that embodies timeless bathroom aesthetics.
Curated sample board showcasing classic tile selections.

3. Removing Bathtubs for Walk-in Showers

A lot of people decide to remove a bath to have a luxurious walk-in shower, especially if space is tight. However, it is often the case that a lot of people come to regret this, especially if they go on to have children or wish to sell their property.

Consider incorporating both a smaller bathtub and a shower to maintain functionality and appeal to a wider range of potential buyers if you decide to sell in the future.

An AI-generated bathroom design by Rita A Sladack featuring a shower-tub combination. The space is rendered in a neutral color palette, with soft beige and gray tones dominating. The shower-tub area is tiled in a subtle pattern, complemented by glass enclosure panels. A sleek showerhead and fixtures add modern touches to the classic design. The overall aesthetic is clean, calming, and timeless, embodying a perfect balance between contemporary and traditional elements.
Serene simplicity: Rita A Sladack's AI-generated bathroom design showcases a harmonious blend of functionality and style with a neutral-toned shower-tub combination.

4. Statement Wallpaper in Bathroom Trends

Bold wallpaper might seem like a fun way to spice up your bathroom at first. But keep in mind that wallpaper trends shift pretty quickly, so what looks cool now might feel old-fashioned in a few years. I’m a fan of wallpaper when it’s chosen wisely, but I’m also all for a quick refresh every few years. You might want to think about using paint or removable wallpaper instead, as they offer a more flexible option for easy updates later on.

A luxurious traditional bathroom featuring a dark ambiance. The focal point is a black vanity with a marble countertop, complemented by dramatic floral wallpaper in deep, rich tones. Brass fixtures, including faucets, mirror frame, and light fixtures, add warmth and sparkle to the space. The overall effect is one of opulent, vintage-inspired charm with a modern twist.
Moody elegance: A traditional bathroom embraces dark sophistication with a black vanity, lush floral wallpaper, and gleaming brass accents.

5. Jet Tubs

While jet tubs can create an indulgent spa-like experience, they often require extensive maintenance and may not be used as frequently as anticipated. Many homeowners find themselves dealing with issues like mildew due to the enclosed nature of these tubs, making them less desirable over time. As one homeowner shared, "Installing a bathtub with water jets can be an exciting way to make having a soak an event to look forward to, however, this is one of the most common bathroom fads that quickly becomes boring and ends up being more costly than it was worth."

A detailed image showing a jetdrop feature in action within a bathtub. A stream of water is seen falling from a sleek, chrome fixture mounted on the tub's edge, creating a waterfall effect as it hits the surface of the water below. The clear, sparkling water highlights the force and beauty of the jetdrop, suggesting a spa-like experience in a home bathroom setting.
A close-up view of a powerful jet tub, creating a soothing cascade in a modern bathtub.

By considering these trends carefully, you can make more informed decisions about your bathroom design that will stand the test of time and enhance your home's value. Remember, the key to a successful bathroom renovation is balancing current styles with timeless elements that will continue to look fresh and appealing for years to come. Have you incorporated any of these trends in your bathroom? Share your experiences in the comments below!

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