As we welcome 2024, here’s a thought: Instead of making a few massive resolutions you might struggle to keep, how about committing to just one decor renovation in your bathroom?
If your bathroom isn’t horribly dated (we’re looking at you, laminate counters), a spiffy new paint color or chic accessory can be the decor tweak that elevates your sanctuary. And bonus: It’s a lot cheaper than a full-scale bathroom renovation.
So if you’re looking to gussy up your loo, you’re in the right place. To help you perk up this space, we tapped the industry pros and interior designers who know their way around water closets and tile. Take a look at the top bathroom trends for 2024—maybe one will catch your eye.
Sea-green tile
Photo by 12/12 Architects & Planners
The bright minds at The National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) put out their recent trend report for 2024, and one of the hottest new bathroom looks comes straight from nature.
Yup, green is leading the pack intile, paint, and accessories, besting the traditional whites and blues you’d expect in the mix.
A nod toward the outdoors is the main takeaway here. But if green isn’t your bag, you could try this trend in a smaller, temporary way—say, with a set of sage towels or a mossy-green shower curtain.
Efficient design
Photo by Griffin Enright Architects
Making your bathroom energy efficient and earth friendly, in terms of materials, is a big trend in 2024, says Lindsey Zborowski, hospitality design manager at Wayfair Professional.
“We love to see this trend flexed in the bathroom and amenity spaces, where designers can create a luxurious spa-like sanctuary while still making decisions that promote sustainability,” Zborowski explains.
When it comes to executing this trend, look toward eco-friendly water systems and green materials such as FSC-certified teak for counters, stools, and flooring.
Pale yellow
You might start to feel a bit peckish when you realize that this next bathroom trend is actually called “whipped butter.” The VP of merchandising at Chairish, Noel Fahden Briceño, notes that her eagle-eyed scouts have identified this delicious pale-yellow hue as a top pick for 2024.
“It’s specifically on the rise in art, painted cabinetry, and upholstery,” she reports, adding thatif thispale-yellow shade is too timid for your particular loo, it can be mixed with punchier colors.
Water closets
Photo by Leslie Cotter Interiors
Who doesn’t want their own little space that’s quiet and separate? Sectioning off the toilet behind a door is a nice way of creating privacy, as well as stashing the toilet where you don’t have to see it every time you enter the bathroom.
Water closets are big on homeowners’ wish lists, according to the NKBA, which deems it a trend to watch for in 2024.
Don’t have the funds to close off your commode? Per the report, it seems that water closets are desirable both with and without an attached hinged or sliding door.
Tiny fridges
Does a mini fridge in the bathroom seem over the top? In fact, it’s a hot trend, says NKBA, and it’s not that hard to achieve. If you can part with an under-sink cabinet, you’ve probably got the real estate to install a tiny refrigerator in your bathroom.
Much the way coffee stations are a new trend in the kitchen this year, so too is this small beverage nook. Homeowners who love to soak with a cold drink will leap at the chance to store seltzer or wine here, but beauty gurus also know the value of a fridge in the bathroom.
The reason: Many products (face creams, anti-inflammatory gels, etc.) on the market are best kept at a cold temperature, so the active ingredients remain potent for longer. And some topical potions simply feel nicer when applied cold.
Backlit mirrors
Glam alert! Backlit mirrors not only look stylish, but they’re energy efficient too. Per the NKBA, there will be increased demand for higher-tech mirrors, including backlit, smart mirrors and those with anti-fog capacity.
But backlit versions are especially popular going into the new year, since they’re an excellent light source and use LED bulbs, which save more energy and last longer than the traditional incandescent variety.
The light that shines from backlit mirrors is stronger, making makeup application and other small tasks (tweezing!) easier. At the same time, the illumination from these wall mounts is less harsh and emits a softer, more diffuse glow—a welcome benefit in the wee hours of the morning.
