9 Bathroom Styles That Could See Less Focus In Future Renovations

Bathroom design trends shift constantly, and what feels fresh today might look outdated tomorrow. Homeowners are rethinking certain styles that once dominated renovation projects, favoring more timeless and functional approaches instead.

Understanding which trends are fading can help you make smarter choices for your next bathroom update. Here are some styles that could see less attention in the years ahead.

1. LED Mood-Lighting Heavy Bathrooms

Color-changing LED strips once felt like a futuristic upgrade. They promised to turn every bathroom into a customizable spa retreat with the touch of a button.

However, many homeowners now find the constant glow feels more like a nightclub than a calming space. The novelty fades quickly, and colored lighting can make everyday tasks, such as applying makeup, more difficult.

2. Wet-Rooms As The Dominant Layout

Wet-rooms brought a sleek, European aesthetic to North American homes. The barrier-free design looked stunning in photos and offered accessibility benefits that appealed to many.

Yet, everyday splashing and moisture issues reduced enthusiasm for the design. Keeping towels dry, preventing slippery floors, and managing ventilation became daily challenges. Homeowners are returning to defined shower zones that keep water contained.

3. Industrial Metal And Open Shelving

Raw metal pipes and exposed shelving brought an edgy, warehouse vibe to residential bathrooms. The look felt bold and different, breaking away from traditional cabinetry with an urban flair. But dust settles quickly on open shelves, and bathroom humidity wreaks havoc on metal finishes.

Keeping open shelving neat and intentional can quickly become tiring. Enclosed storage with softer materials is reclaiming space as people crave tidier, lower-maintenance bathrooms.

4. Oversized Bold Feature Tiles

Statement walls covered in dramatic geometric or brightly patterned tiles made bathrooms feel like art galleries. These bold choices certainly grabbed attention and added instant personality to otherwise neutral spaces.

The problem? What feels exciting today might feel overwhelming in a year or two. Large-scale patterns can dominate small rooms and clash with changing décor preferences. Subtler textures and classic patterns are proving more versatile for long-term satisfaction.

5. Open Towel And Storage Shelving

Floating shelves stacked with perfectly rolled towels created that coveted hotel-spa aesthetic. Instagram feeds were filled with these curated displays that promised relaxation and luxury at home.

Reality set in when dust, humidity, and daily life made maintaining that magazine-ready look nearly impossible. Towels absorb moisture from the air, and toiletries rarely stay as photogenic as staged versions. Closed cabinetry is returning as the practical choice for real life.

6. Overused Brushed Brass And Matte Black Fixtures

Matte black and brushed brass fixtures exploded in popularity, replacing the chrome and nickel that dominated for decades. These finishes added warmth and a modern edge to many bathroom renovations.

Now they’re everywhere, making once-distinctive choices feel predictable and dated. Water spots show prominently on matte surfaces, and the finishes require more careful maintenance than anticipated. Mixed metals and classic polished finishes are emerging as fresh alternatives with timeless appeal.

7. High-Gloss Tiles And Finishes

Mirror-like tiles promised to brighten small bathrooms and create a luxurious, polished appearance. The reflective surfaces did bounce light around beautifully, making spaces feel larger and more open.

Unfortunately, every water drop, fingerprint, and soap splash shows up immediately on these glossy surfaces. Constant cleaning becomes necessary to maintain that pristine look. Matte and textured finishes are gaining favor for their forgiving nature and softer, more sophisticated aesthetic.

8. Cool-Toned Colour Palettes

Bathrooms filled with grays, blues, and stark whites once dominated design magazines everywhere. Homeowners loved the sleek, modern appearance these shades created. However, many people now find these spaces feel cold and uninviting, especially during morning routines.

Warmer tones are making a comeback as families seek cozier, more welcoming bathroom environments. Earthy colors like terracotta, warm beige, and soft cream now appeal to those wanting relaxation. These shades create a spa-like atmosphere that feels nurturing rather than clinical.

9. Wall-To-Wall Frameless Mirrors

Giant mirrors stretching across entire bathroom walls became incredibly trendy in recent years. Designers praised them for making spaces appear larger and brighter. Yet homeowners are discovering these massive reflective surfaces create some unexpected problems that outweigh their benefits.

Keeping such enormous mirrors spotless requires constant cleaning effort, showing every water droplet and fingerprint. The lack of frames also means no visual boundaries, which can feel overwhelming rather than elegant. Some homeowners find the extensive reflection less comfortable or relaxing.