The 13 Bathroom Trends for 2026, According to 500 Design Experts

Everyone dreams of having a beautifully renovated bathroom—though most of us would happily skip the messy process and jump straight to the final reveal. A serene, spa-like retreat with stylish, modern features is a goal many homeowners share. And if you’ve been thinking about updating your bathroom, you’re in luck: the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) has just released its 2026 Bath Trends Report. This annual survey gathers insights from 500 industry experts—including interior designers, Remodeling Companies, and manufacturers—who share their predictions on what’s next in bathroom design.

According to the report, bathrooms in 2026 will lean heavily toward a spa-inspired look, defined by minimalist, seamless, and hotel-like aesthetics enhanced with smart technology. Homeowners want more than just a functional space—they’re investing in personal sanctuaries where they can slow down and indulge in self-care. And they’re willing to spend big: the report notes that the average bathroom renovation budget has climbed significantly.

What really stands out, however, are the details. Today’s clients are seeking highly personalized and luxurious spaces, making bold choices in everything from paint Colurs to countertops. Curious about what’s in store? Here are the top bathroom design trends the NKBA predicts will dominate in 2026.

1. Natural, Transitional, and Modern Styles: Homeowners want bathrooms that feel calm and natural, almost like a spa. About 65% of designers say the “natural” style will be most popular in the next few years, followed by transitional (63%) and modern/minimalist looks (60%). Farmhouse style is fading, with only 14% of designers thinking it will still be trendy in 2026.
2. Nature-Inspired Colour: Green, blue, gray, and brown will be the go-to colour for bathrooms in 2026. White is still the top choice (76%), but green (71%) and blue (51%) are close behind. Warm neutrals and wood textures will also be big. Vintage-inspired colour from the ’50s and ’70s are making a comeback too.
3. Spa-Like Features: Bathrooms are becoming places to relax. Homeowners are asking for spa features like dimmable lights, rain shower heads, steam showers, soaking tubs, heated floors, shower seats, and even taller toilets for extra comfort.
4. Bathrooms for Two: Couples want bathrooms that work for both partners. That means double sinks, vanities, medicine cabinets, toilets, and even shower heads.
5. Wet Rooms: Wet rooms—open shower spaces separate from the vanity—are becoming more common. About 40% of experts expect them to be a growing trend.
6. Bigger Showers and Freestanding Tubs: Showers are taking center stage. Many homeowners are removing bathtubs to make their showers bigger, often with frameless glass, rain heads, built-in seats, and steam features. Still, freestanding tubs (especially oval ones) remain popular for a luxury feel. Clawfoot tubs, however, are losing appeal.
7. Large Tiles and Solid Walls: Big tiles with fewer grout lines (79%) and slab walls (68%) are in demand since they’re easier to clean. Small tiles, especially subway tiles, are less popular now.
8. Patterned Floors: Floors are seeing more creative designs. Over half of designers predict patterned mosaic floors will be popular, though large tiles will also appear. Ceramic, porcelain, and stone floors in warm tones are leading choices. Heated floors are still highly requested.
9. More Natural Light: Homeowners are even willing to add new windows or skylights to bring in more sunlight. 81% of pros say natural light will be a big trend.
10. Floating Vanities: Floating and freestanding vanities with wood or painted finishes will dominate. Sleek slab-style doors with soft-close features are preferred, while shaker doors are slowly losing ground.
11. Quartz Countertops: Quartz is the favourite countertop material (79%), followed by quartzite (55%). Marble (27%) and granite (23%) are much less popular.
12. Sleek Sinks: More sinks will be built right into the countertop for a seamless look. Still, most people will stick with classic undermount sinks in polished or matte white.
13. Black and Bronze Faucets: Matte and brushed finishes in black and bronze remain the top faucet choices.

At Unique Builders and Remodeling Houston, we bring these 2026-bathroom trends to life with our expert Bathroom Remodeling Houston services. Whether it’s creating spa-like retreats with heated floors and rain showers, installing sleek floating vanities, or designing natural, light-filled spaces with calming colour, our team stays ahead of the curve. We specialize in blending style with function—delivering modern, timeless, and personalized bathroom remodels that perfectly match today’s trends while fitting your lifestyle.