As a place for daily rituals and the occasional “spa day,” there’s no place like the home bath. In anticipation of the Kitchen & Bath Design Show and the International Builders’ Show (visit us at booth C7125), we reached out to designers to find out the latest trends and technologies that clients are asking for in their bathroom projects. What we found includes uniquely layered design styles, show-stopping details, trend-forward color choices, and creative functionality.

Read on to see how designers are incorporating these key interior trends into beautiful bathroom designs this year.

Today’s at-home self-care practices often take place in residential bathrooms, and several interior design trends are retelling the wellness story in these spaces. From large elements like bathtubs and showers to the smallest details such as sink hardware, drawer pulls, and bathroom accessories, the broader interior trend toward soft, flowing silhouettes and organic connections to nature applies to bathrooms in particular this coming year.

Denean Jackson of D. Nicole Design Studio has noticed a growing interest in eco-friendly fixtures and finishes and recycled or reclaimed materials, as well as smart technologies for enhanced convenience and energy efficiency. “The evolution of bathroom trends showcases a heightened awareness of environmental impact,” Jackson remarks, “with an increased focus on water-saving technologies and renewable resources.” 

This emphasis on the beauty of the natural world and our care for it is also reflected in aesthetic choices, like natural, gentle lighting, a crafted aesthetic, and the nourishing properties of natural materials. While a soothing color palette brimming with warm neutrals does lend a spa-like atmosphere, the color possibilities are truly endless for bathroom design trends in 2024, especially if you or your clients want to make a big impact in smaller spaces.

In 2024, playful pairings of wallpaper and painted wainscoting or vibrant vanities will continue to gain favor in residential bathrooms, and the color options for walls, cabinetry, wood coatings, and performance flooring are yours to explore with Full Spectrum Possibilities.

The owner and namesake of Megan Pisano Design encourages designers to explore this trend, saying combinations of different wallcoverings keep washroom designs fresh, and using statement wallpaper can give small spaces a “wow factor” in guest areas like a main-floor powder room. When asked which color family she expects to get a lot of attention in bathroom designs, she tells us, “Green is the new blue!”

The use of high-impact, on-trend color is the most exciting aspect of bathroom design for Tammy Bolden, Bold Interior Designs. “Color has and always will be in vogue,” she says, looking forward to bringing residential bathrooms the right hues to set a distinctive mood, whether it’s warm earth tones, bold and bright colors, or metallic shine.

At D. Nicole Design Studio in Charlotte, NC, Denean Jackson says that color selection always comes down to finding an overlap with current design trends and client preferences. For bathrooms, the designer has found that some Sherwin-Williams colors are clear favorites among her clients.

“Naval SW 6244 (253-C6) and Tricorn Black SW 6258 (251-C1) are popular for a bold yet calming look,” shares Jackson. “Neutral tones such as Shoji White SW 7042 (254-C4) and Snowbound SW 7004 (256-C2) continue to be timeless choices, providing versatility and a sense of freshness. Looking forward, we anticipate an ongoing demand for calming blues like Stardew SW 9138 (221-C3), serene greens like Evergreen Fog SW 9130 (215-C4), and sophisticated neutrals in bathroom palettes.”

Appreciation for the “classics” continues to be a key trend direction in the coming year. With an influx of statement marble surfaces and an emphasis on texture and tactility with artisanal touches, pristine and ultra-bright whites remain a beloved choice in bathrooms and eternally coveted design details merge old and new aesthetics together.

Megan Pisano is feeling inspired by deep and dramatic looks with unique wall coverings like paneling and vintage-inspired wallpaper choices. “I’m so excited for the dark and moody vibe,” she says she’s seeing demand for. “It kind of brings you back to the Victorian era!”

Denean Jackson’s recent bathroom renovation embodies what she refers to as “classic chic,” a vision centered on luxury with honed marble and crystal chandeliers. “Opting for elegance, we chose Sherwin-Williams Snowbound SW 7004 (256-C2) for the main bath and Stardew SW 9138 (221-C3) for the water closet to create a soft and refined atmosphere.”

One of Tammy Bolden’s clients also wanted to create a large and inviting retreat in the modern and sophisticated white of Snowbound SW 7004 (256-C2). “As a native of South Florida, [this client] wanted to be reminded of the beautiful high-end homes that she saw growing up. We fell in love with the gray undertones that paired well with the veining in the porcelain tile. We used Extra White SW 7006 (257-C1) on the trim and moldings for its cool blue undertones.”

Functionality is a core consideration for bathroom design projects, from plumbing and fixture placements to finish specifications and storage. As interior design trends have continued to evolve in recent years, it’s important to strike a balance between style and substance, finding ways to set new standards in successful washroom design.

For example, Renee Johnson of ID.ology Interiors & Design has seen bathroom cabinetry dimensions change over time. “Typical bathroom vanities have a standard depth and height. This is fine if space is an issue, but for new builds we require the cabinetry to have the same standard dimensions as the kitchen to maximize space and comfort.”

Johnson also prioritizes the usability of bathroom closets. “Creating spaces with multipurpose use gives us the opportunity to design something truly unique for the client,” she says. “We also love small details with big impacts, such as lighting incorporated in cabinetry. We want bathrooms to be as functional as possible, and we sometimes add more details for storage solutions in these spaces than anywhere else in the residence.”

When it comes to designing for high-moisture environments like bathrooms, the right product can make a world of difference, and your Account Executive can help you understand which Sherwin-Williams products will fit the needs of the space. 

Tammy Bolden says that her Account Executive, “is always helpful with any need or concern I may have for all of my design projects, especially when special paint applications are being used.” Mold- and moisture-resistant coatings like Emerald^® Designer Edition^™,Emerald^® Interior, and Duration Home^® Interior, which provide exceptional moisture protection and durability for bathrooms and kitchens in any sheen, can help you create looks that last.

Connect with your very own Account Executive for specification assistance, color resources, and so much more. And learn all about how we can help connect you with the ideal coating specification for any surface, every time, with Full Spectrum Possibilities.

Top image: White Snow SW 9541 (Emerald^® Designer Edition^™ Minimal + Modern Palette). Design by and photos courtesy of Meredith Heron Design.