2026 Bathroom Design Trends We’re Seeing in Luxury Homes
Bathroom design in 2026 is all about personalization, elevated materials, and spa-level functionality. Homeowners are no longer looking for purely practical spaces. They want bathrooms that feel restorative, luxurious, and thoughtfully tailored to their routines.
At Toulmin Kitchen & Bath, we’re seeing clients invest in custom cabinetry, statement lighting, large-format tile, and high-end plumbing finishes that transform everyday spaces into design moments.
Below, we’re breaking down the top bathroom design trends for 2026, all inspired by features we’ve incorporated into our recent projects.
Warm Metals Are Defining Luxury Bathrooms
Cool chrome finishes are taking a backseat as warmer metals step into the spotlight. Brushed brass, champagne bronze, and polished nickel bring softness and depth to bathroom spaces, pairing beautifully with painted cabinetry and natural stone.
These finishes are showing up everywhere — from faucets and shower systems to cabinet hardware and lighting. The key to making the look feel cohesive is carrying the same finish throughout the space rather than mixing too many competing tones.
Why homeowners love it:
Feels warmer and more inviting than chrome
Ages beautifully over time
Elevates both modern and traditional designs
Statement Lighting: Think of it as Jewelry for the Bathroom Vanity
Vanity lighting in 2026 is doing far more than providing task illumination—it’s becoming a focal design feature.
We’re seeing fluted glass sconces, decorative pendants, and backlit mirrors used to layer ambiance into bathroom spaces. Lighting is selected as intentionally as plumbing fixtures, and often in coordination with metal finishes.
Trending details include:
Reeded and fluted glass textures
Pendant lights flanking mirrors
Integrated LED mirror lighting
Mixed material fixtures
Slab Showers & Large-Format Tile
One of the biggest shifts in bathroom design is the move toward large-format tile and slab shower walls. These materials create a seamless, spa-like environment with fewer grout lines and a more architectural feel. Porcelain slabs that mimic marble are especially popular, offering beauty with lower maintenance.
Benefits of this trend:
Cleaner visual lines
Easier upkeep
High-end, hotel-inspired look
Works well in both modern and classic homes
Built-In Niches & Shower Benches Are Now Expected
Functionality is driving design decisions more than ever. Built-in shower niches and integrated bench seating are no longer upgrades—they’re expectations. Recessed niches eliminate the need for bulky shower caddies while keeping products easily accessible. Shower benches add comfort, accessibility, and a custom architectural element.
Design considerations:
Symmetrical vs. offset niche placement
Contrasting niche tile accents
Floating vs. full-length benches
Aging-in-place functionality
Furniture-Style Vanities & Custom Cabinetry
Bathrooms are increasingly being designed to feel like extensions of the home rather than utilitarian spaces. Furniture-style vanities and built-in storage towers are leading this evolution. At Toulmin Kitchen & Bath, we’re designing bathroom vanities that resemble fine furniture, complete with decorative hardware, custom paint finishes, and integrated linen storage.
Popular features:
Tall linen towers
Drawer organizers
Decorative hardware
Painted + stained cabinetry combinations
Mixed Tile Patterns & Layout Play
While large-format tile is trending, patterned layouts still have a place, especially as accent features. We’re seeing tile in herringbone patterns, stacked subway, and mosaic tile used strategically to add visual interest without overwhelming the space.
Where pattern works best:
Shower niches
Feature walls
Shower floors
Powder bath statements
Moody & Bold Guest Bathroomss and Powder Rooms Are Having a Moment
Dark cabinetry, dramatic lighting, and rich stone surfaces create intimate, hospitality-inspired spaces that leave a lasting impression on guests. In 2026, we’re also seeing homeowners lean into more expressive design choices, incorporating colorful vanities, statement wallpaper, and uniquely patterned wall tile to bring personality into smaller bath spaces.
From deep forest greens and inky blues to textural grasscloths and bold tile layouts, powder baths are becoming the perfect place to take design risks that feel curated rather than overwhelming.
Why this trend works:
Smaller spaces feel more intentional
Easier to go bold without overwhelming the home
Creates contrast to lighter primary baths
Let’s Design a Bathroom for YOU!
From custom cabinetry and integrated storage to slab showers and statement lighting, every design decision is an opportunity to blend beauty with function.
At Toulmin Kitchen & Bath, our team works closely with homeowners, builders, and designers to create bathrooms that feel timeless—not trendy—while still incorporating the best of what’s new.
FAQs: 2026 Bathroom Design Trends
What bathroom finishes are trending in 2026?
Warm metals like brushed brass and champagne bronze are leading the way, replacing cooler finishes like chrome.
Are freestanding tubs still popular?
Yes, but placement and sculptural design are becoming more important than size alone.
Is large-format tile worth it?
Homeowners love it for the reduced grout lines, easier maintenance, and high-end appearance.
What adds the most value to a bathroom remodel?
Custom cabinetry, upgraded lighting, slab showers, and integrated storage consistently deliver strong ROI.
Are dark bathrooms going out of style?
Not at all. Moody powder baths and accent spaces are becoming more popular.
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