Saturday
July 27, 2024 
If simple, clean, classic and organic are your top bathroom picks, 2024 will be the year to lean into timeless, effortless options.
Large format tile continues to reign as homeowners strive to create tranquil spa-like environments in the bathroom.
“When selecting elements — like large scale tile with small mosaic tile — you can achieve a beautiful look,” said Angela Carroll Ast, an interior designer and owner of ABCA Design Decorating Den Interiors in Milford.
Real Simple.com reports large panel and grout-less options are in higher demand for showers to simplify cleaning and maintenance routines.
Ast said safety-rated glass in the bathroom is another hot trend, including shower doors and door-less shower assemblies with zero barrier entries.
“Channels for glass doors or a floating glass look” is also trending, she said.
Niches that don’t show or can’t be seen from the shower door are other newer options to stow shampoo, soap and care products. Large showers with benches may incorporate space to for those items, too, she said.
“There is so much opportunity when you use this (approach) and a lot of tile,” Ast said.
Shower taps — for hot and cold water as well as turning on the shower — are being placed so openings allow the user to turn on the spray easily without standing in the water’s way.
When it comes to shower doors, McDowell Glass — https://www.mcdowellglass.com/ — said classic frameless panels provide an elegant, seamless look while protecting materials and bathroom features from direct water contact.
Frosted, etched and patterned shower glass is another option for shower doors. Smart glass technology allows the user to change the shower glass from transparent to opaque with the touch of a button, the website said.
Cleaning tips recommended by McDowell Glass include using appropriate products or chemical cleaners based on manufacturer’s directions. Remember to clean smudges or soiled surfaces. Dust and care for metal surfaces following manufacturer’s recommendations.
In addition to tile and glass fixtures, metals should complement or contrast — but not clash — with other materials in the bathroom.
Dennis Gehman, owner of Gehman Design Remodeling, in Harleysville, said brushed brass and gold tones are making a comeback, while matte black is another popular metal for bathroom fixtures.
“Polished nickel seems to be the leader” in client fixture requests, he said.
Re-Bath.com recommends not using more than three different metals in one space, if mixing them.
Select a primary or base metal to be used in the bathroom and include about 60% of the fixtures in this metal and finish, the website said.
Contemporary and transitional décor works with cool tones like nickel and chrome and can include polished and brushed finishes. Warm tones like brass or gold harmonize with rustic and traditional styles, the website said.
Considering using different metals in the same color range or finish for mirror frames, hooks, towel or grab bars, lighting, door handles or pulls as this can provide interest and texture.
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