One of the most fun things about a new year is when our kitchen and bath consultants take out their crystal balls, put on their trendspotter glasses, and tell us – and you – what’s going to be popular in the months to come. Here are three of our experts’ takes on what’s in store for bathroom design and remodeling:
1. Medicine cabinets will be in…
These are not your parents’ medicine cabinets! Manufacturers such as Robern and Danze offer hundreds of fabulous designs; traditionally themed wood trimmed models and clean-lined contemporary styles are going to be hot. For a sleeker look, many new styles feature a recessed mount or dual recessed/surface mount options. Also check out ADA and Aging in Place modifications such as a downward tilted cabinet/mirror for wheelchair users and cold storage compartments for medications.
…then out. Then in again.
Over the course of 2012 we heard about the demise and rebirth of medicine cabinets several times, and we expect to hear it all again this year. Our experts’ bottom line: Extra storage will never go out of style.
2. Oversize showers will continue to replace bathtubs…
More and more homeowners are taking out bathtubs and replacing them with spacious walk-in showers. It’s an opportunity to put together your own custom shower configurations including dual showerheads for washing à deux, as well as luxury touches like sound systems and strip drains (watch for a future post on this new feature). “Who has time for a bath anymore?” explains one of our consultants. “People want to get the most out of their daily shower.” Some homeowners also use the extra space to equip their shower with seats and grab bars to facilitate aging in place.
…except when therapy is an issue.
Air tubs, walk-in tubs and classic whirlpools are still popular with athletes, arthritis sufferers, and people with certain health conditions. (Therapy issues aside, we all know someone who’ll never give up their bubble bath.)
3. Chrome will continue to be the hot finish…
A few years ago chrome was just the plain cousin of flashier looks such as oil rubbed bronze and brushed nickel. Now most designers agree that chrome is not only resurging in popularity, but retaking the industry by storm. “This is partly economy driven because chrome costs 40-60% lower than most other finishes,” notes a consultant. “But it’s also classic. People are shying away from trends and looking for things that will last.”
…with no “buts” or second thoughts.
Other finishes may grab fleeting attention this year — a number of manufacturers have introduced new gold tones — but our pros expect the chrome trend to go the distance.
OK — your turn! Let us know what you think will be hot in bathroom style this year by leaving a comment or sharing with us on Facebook. And don’t forget to sign up for emails so we can keep you updated on trends all year long!
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