Bathroom ideas – 58 beautiful bathroom designs you will love

In the past couple of years, the nation's bathrooms have undergone something of a dramatic transformation. No longer simply functional rooms where we could begin and end our days, bathroom decor is now much more likely to be at-home wellness centers where we unwind, escape, rejuvenate, and repair – and this has had a big effect on not just how bathrooms look but how we design them.

This means giving what space we can in our existing bathrooms to luxury features, which means good bathroom design relies on a good combination of form and function.

Whether you are planning on updating your master bathroom, or small bathroom, upgrading a shower room, or turning unused space into a luxurious ensuite, we can help you with a vast array of bathrooms to suit your taste, from bathroom colors and materials to finishes and shapes. Plus, we have selected the world's top bathroom and design experts to offer you unrivaled bathroom design advice.

This enduringly popular material is sure to evoke a sense of luxury and elegance in a modern bathroom.

More is undoubtedly more here in this divine marble bathroom by Australian interior designer Tamsin Johnson. Decorative New York marble envelops the vanity unity, climbs the walls and wraps around the lozenge-shaped mirrors. The scheme is completed with Perrin & Rowe taps, Thirties Murano glass sconces and Venetian plaster wall finishes.

The dynamic relationship between the room’s architecture and the shapely, curvaceous sanitaryware strikes a note here. ‘Bathrooms are becoming more and more minimalistic through the use of organic shapes, refined details, and hidden features,’ says Erdem Akan, design director at Vitra. ‘We are turning to curves and rounded contours as they are more fun and playful in contrast to sharp and straight lines.’ This is the Plural Monoblock basin and Small table with ceramic countertop and oak shelf in Matt Black.

Interior designer Nicola Harding masterminded this blue bathroom in a Regency London villa. Nicola is known for her excellent eye for bathroom color, and indeed it is this flair that drew the client to her work in the first place. This chic scheme mixes the Rockwell bath in Blue from The Water Monopoly with a soft pink on walls and floors, creating a truly romantic space. The powder blue appears again on the Rockwell crosshead taps and shower handle – a nice additional touch.

Terrazzo bathrooms have seen a resurgence on the design scene. Traditionally made by exposing marble chips on the surface of concrete and then polishing until smooth, there are now myriad options that replicate this original look. The effect is arresting, bringing interest and flair to contemporary schemes.

‘Pair practical terrazzo effect porcelain tiles, in Cosmic Ivory, with the soft tones and classic brick format of Pigment Mocha gloss ceramics, to create a stylish and harmonious spa bathroom space,’ says Louisa Morgan, Mandarin Stone.

Sometimes it only takes one gentle curve to transform the entire energy of your white bathroom. Here, it comes via a simple horseshoe configuration of wardrobes. ‘We took inspiration from the egg-shape bath, with the curve echoing the radius to give a sense of connection,’ recalls interior designer Chantel Elshout.

‘Opting for standard angular wardrobes instead would have made the corner storage harder to reach and, crucially, we would have missed the opportunity to make the dressing area more interesting. The softening effect curves provide is so worth the extra effort required in their design and construction.’

Interior design practice Salvesen Graham was adamant that this scheme would have the feeling of a ‘room’. ‘It has all the features you’d expect of a country house interior,’ says Nicole Salvesen. ‘We used fabric wherever we could, added antiques, bathroom wallpaper (Lattice by Nile & York), a blind, and a generous fabric shower curtain. This country bathroom is practical but ultimately comfortable.’

One element of bathroom design that is often neglected is artwork on walls. 'In any other room of our homes, artwork is always a finishing touch that we add to bring in color, personality and a unique feel,' says Lucy Searle, Editor in Chief of Homes & Gardens. 'However, it's often overlooked in bathrooms, which can leave the room feeling a little soulless.

'However, it's an easy fix. I'm not a huge fan of room-themed artwork, such as coastal images in a bathroom, food images in a kitchen, for example, however, the beauty of bathroom art ideas is that they are rarely seen by guests and can be entirely personal to you.'

When we decorate bathrooms, we tend to concentrate and fixate on the practicalities: bathroom fixtures, storage, flooring and walls. However, softer, more decorative finishes shouldn't be neglected, especially textiles, which can be used not just to make a bathroom feel more inviting, but to add color and layering, too, as in this bathroom above by Henriette von Stockhausen of VSP Interiors.

'Aesthetics are just as important as practical elements when it comes to creating an inviting bathroom,' says Henriette.

'We use as much fabric as we can in bathrooms because it stops them from being cold, hard and echoey,' says Emily Todhunter of Todhunter Earle.

If you are not sure which way to go with your bathroom design, you can't go too far wrong with a classic: blue and white. This classic combination, as seen in this bathroom by Surface View, never dates and always looks fresh.

But there is a but. 'Blue and white can feel cold in the wrong shade or the wrong bathroom,' says Lucy Searle. 'The key to success is to analyse the temperature of the daylight in your bathroom and to choose a blue that will complement it. North- or east- facing rooms, or those with tiny windows, tend to feel cool, so need warm blues. South- and west-facing bathrooms will naturally feel warmer so can take a cooler tone.'

The wellness trend has seen bathrooms as sanctuaries, for the ultimate in hedonistic relaxation.

‘Spa bathrooms offer a place to escape to, where the very essence is to be able to relax and unwind in a luxurious setting,’ says Barrie Cutchie, Design Director at BC Designs.

‘We’re seeing customers taking luxury to the next level, with huge bathtubs, double shower heads in wet room-style showers, along with the continued trend for double vanity units with luxury marble, granite or quartz countertops and sunken under-mount sinks.’

For a standout spa style, choose an opulent tub with a chandelier above to create a focal point, as well as looking to inspire bathroom vanities – adding bathroom plants will also enhance the spa-like feel.

A sauna is the ultimate wellbeing treat, with dry heat to soothe muscles and de-stress the spirit. While the typical wood box is fine in a home gym, it can overpower a bathroom at home, so look for a design with stylish paneling or even glass walls for your personal spa space.

‘With a larger variety of wooden finishes than ever before, a sauna can now fit into your desired scheme, rather than dictate it,’ agrees Yousef Mansuri, director of design at CP Hart. ‘Effegibi’s Sky Sauna is a versatile design, ideal for made-to-measure solutions, with wide floor-to-ceiling glass panels and a glazed roof that create a beautifully light and airy feel.’

Saunas like this can also be customized with different woods, colored LED lighting and audio speakers.

‘The bathroom is one of the only rooms in the house where you can, literally, lock yourself in for some “me” time. Rather than creating a purely utilitarian space, it makes sense to create a sanctuary where you can relax, refresh and revive,’ explains Emma Joyce, Brand Manager at House of Rohl.

‘It’s all about creating a calm sanctuary, where every item is carefully considered and designed in. Freestanding baths are synonymous with luxury bathroom design, and they create a real statement in a serene spa environment. Rainfall showers with a generously proportioned shower head are now standard in spa-style bathrooms.’

What could be more luxurious than a deep freestanding bath? Two, of course! Even if you don't have a room large enough for twin tubs, space is an essential ingredient of truly decadent bathing spaces.

'The first essential ingredient of a spa-like bathroom is having enough space to indulge and relax in luxury,' agrees James Lentaigne, Creative Director, Drummonds.  Your bath should be big enough to let you really stretch out and soak and your shower should be large and powerful, preferably with several types of jet, as in our freestanding showers.

'Heated towel rails are another must, keeping warm towels always ready to hand,' continues James. 'And finally, lighting. Again, this should be from several sources and be controllable, with different settings to match your mood and good close-up lighting by the mirrors.

'The decorative aspect is, of course, a personal choice, but I would always recommend placing the emphasis on classic quality and luxury, using materials such as natural marble, mirror glass and polished metal.'

The interest in sustainability means we're seeing more reclaimed sanitaryware, such as traditional baths, being integrated into new bathroom spaces – perfect for traditional bathrooms that include all the contemporary luxuries.

'This look is about how you successfully combine period and contemporary styles,' explains Darren Allison, Managing Director at BC Designs. 'We find people are more informed in what they love and want and are also willing to take more risks when it comes to their bathroom decor, to create something truly unique.

'The secret to making it work is in the mix. Just remember, opposites attract! Traditional bath with modern and sleek faucet. Period faucets with a modern shaped sink.'

'Painting a traditionally shaped bath in an on-trend color will bring a 21st century look to your bathroom.'

We tend to think of bathroom decor as light and bright, but a cocooning deep hue can instill a sense of calm and serenity.

‘For a moody-yet-chic finish, go for a deep green hue,’ suggests Mike Head, director at Atlas Ceramics. ‘Team dark tiles with metallic accents, such as a gold mirror. If your bathroom is on the smaller side, don’t be afraid to keep some white in the room to make it feel lighter.’

Here, large format floor tiles and white walls create a crisp contrast with the deep room colors introduced in the form of green scallop tiles, without reducing their dramatic impact.

New materials, such as stone mixed with resin, have enabled innovative designs for baths and showers that draw on the beauty of the natural world, with a contemporary, seamless finish.

'A combination of two of the purist elements, earth and water, the use of natural stone within the bathroom can bring you closer to nature and evoke a feeling of relaxation thanks to its earthborn properties,' says Becky Dix, Head of Design at The Luxury Bath Company.

'When designing a bathroom, the positioning of your furnishings is just as important as the color and accessories you place in it,' continues Becky. 'Ensure you are maximizing the space you have with a freestanding bath, and position it in a spot that will naturally draw the eye.'

Wood-panelled walls introduce a warm and tactile quality in a way that a standard painted finish can never achieve, which makes them perfect for a supremely comfortable, cossetting bathroom environment.

In this Shoreditch apartment, based on the fourth floor of a former shoe factory, the architects Chan and Earys used a blend of limed oak brushed timber planks with traditional lime plaster mixed with a natural green pigment on the walls and ceiling. The result is a soft and tactile finish, which is then carried through in the curves of the avocado-green roll top bath by Water Monopoly, a beautiful look for a bathroom ceiling.

'For a more decorative finish it’s all about the finer details that will make your bathroom ooze with elegance. Consider lighting in the form of beautiful pendants and wall fittings, opt for bespoke statement furniture pieces and incorporate softer furnishings, wallpapers and muted pastel colors,' says Leanne Robey, senior designer, Ripples.

Uneven polished plaster finishes are a natural complement to smooth glossy elements such as brass and marble often found in luxurious bathroom schemes. The Moroccan tadelackt bathroom wall in particular, with its natural grittiness, strikes an interesting counter tone to the even and shiny surfaces.

Installing it is an artisanal skill, explains Jamie Blake of Blakes London who used the finish for this concealed shower and WC: 'You’re looking to add just enough movement in the plaster to create interest but not so much that the end result looks messy.'

To add a touch of wow factor, the floors are clad in Carrara marble tiles laid a herringbone pattern which is seamlessly carried up the internal walls.

Simplicity and purity ensure that the gorgeous cloud-like pattern of the marble takes center stage in this compact bathroom. Rising star interior designer Hollie Bowden chose this striking book-matched Arabescato marble and specified Drummonds fittings in a classic nickel finish. Her restrained choices ensure that the materials sing out and that the space remains crisp and clean.

When it comes to adding a decorative touch to a bathroom, nothing beats the versatility of tiles ideas – for the floors, walls, alcoves, or bathroom backsplashes. For an understated look, play with the shape of the tile rather than the pattern.

Here, Joel Fry of West One Bathrooms chose Ca’Pietra’s Zen marble mosaic, a scallop-shaped design that forms a pretty backdrop for the brushed brass tap fittings (a finish that is thoughtfully carried through to the trap under the sink). The curvy border of the backsplash is echoed in the recessed mirror cabinets which add an Art Deco touch to this bathroom.

'I love to mix wallpaper and tiles as it is a fantastic way to play with scale and bring personality to what is often a small space. If I use a large patterned wallpaper, I will usually use a smaller scale tile–it’s all about finding the right balance,' says Kate Aslangui, founder, Oakley Moore Interior Design.

‘Add a little pizzazz to a space that might otherwise become a series of sharp edges and straight lines,’ says Rob Whitaker, creative director and founder of Claybrook. ‘Porcelain and marble bathroom tiles work well, often with geometric or fluid patterns.’ The marble mosaic seen here – Columbus by Haven Mosaics – is a case in point. The motif is repeated in a chic palette of green, white and black and the tiling pairs beautifully with the elegant fluted design of the vanity.

Whenever planning bathrooms from scratch, calculate how much bathroom storage is required and be careful not to underestimate the amount. Items used on a daily basis will need open bathroom shelves, but others should be stored out of sight to ensure the space feels serene and uncluttered.

This is particularly true where anything visible might disrupt the impact of the design such as in this bathroom covered in colorful kismet tiles which was designed by Paris-based LSL Architects. The alcove adjacent to the shower has been turned into a unit of drawers built in from the ceiling down and painted in a sky blue to link in with the tile colours. The antique French basin was restored by Water Monopoly.

'Tiles are a good way to inject a bit of color into a bathroom and there are lots of inexpensive, pretty ones around. To save on costs only use wall tiles where you actually need them such as inside showers then get busy with your paintbrush and add colour to the vanity and bath to add warmth,' says Beth Dadswell, Imperfect Interiors.

Otherwise, if you are looking for somewhere to store fluffy towels (or even wet ones that need to dry) then be sure to go for either a freestanding towel rack or a wall-mounted rail, depending on the space at hand.

Raw limestone and brushed oak make a compelling duo that champions nature’s imperfections. For this modern bespoke bathroom vanity unit by Hetherington Newman, interior designer Lisa Keates specified an unfilled Belgian limestone for the external elements of the vanity top, and the same material honed and filled for the basin interiors.

‘The idea was to enjoy the beautiful texture and practical durability without switching materials, while the brushed fumed oak cabinet featuring a bronze shadow gap adds yet more texture,’ explains Lisa, founder of Keates Interiors. ‘Stone needs resealing regularly to stop agents such as soap or toothpaste from etching the surface finish,’ she advises.

Across the board, bathroom decor is taking bold strides away from the decades-long unwritten rule that they should only ever be white.

From the '70s favorites of avocado or dusty pink to sunny yellows and elegant navy, there’s been an explosion of color on the market. But why stop at plain colors when you can have patterns?

That’s the approach that interior decorator Irene Gunter took to this lower ground floor bathroom, with the bath wrapped in woven fabric: 'Everything about this space was about creating warmth. It had no natural focal point, so I hung the mirror behind the bath to ground the space and painted the walls in mustard yellow to tie in with the brassy tones of the tapware.'

Brassware is an important part of any bathroom and should be considered early on when you start thinking about how to design a bathroom.

'You can create a statement in any bathroom, even the most compact ones, with more essential elements, such as a sculptural shaped basin, a striking-coloured vanity or an unusual finish of brassware. Faucets are working parts that have continuous water flowing through them,' explains Yousef Mansuri, Head of Design at C P Hart. 'They are the most used and have the highest potential to break, so investing in high-quality fittings that stand the test of time is essential.'

Marble bathrooms add a sense of luxury and help make your space feel more expensive, too. This is why, more often than not, it's a design feature often found in hotel bathrooms and spas. High-quality slabs will be water-resistant, but due to their mineral nature, marble still requires regular maintenance.

'What I love most with marble are the activity and coloration,' comments Cara Woodhouse, who designed this bathroom above. 'I also love the fact that all stones are different and have their one-of-a-kind unique markings and colors.'

Applying an additional sealant during installation will help avoid premature wear from harsh cleaning products.

When deciding on your bathroom decor, you may want to choose art as a starting point and use the colors present throughout your space. Remember that water-resistant formulas should be used if your bathroom is being painted.

'Don’t forget to paint your ceiling in the same tone or one that complements the walls – you will be amazed at how often your eyes are drawn upwards when you are relaxing in the bathtub,' suggests Ruth Mottershead, Creative Director at Little Greene.

When you have a tiny bathroom and limited space to work with, opt for wall-hung sanitaryware or sanitaryware that sits on very slim legs, like in this bathroom.

Wall-hung units will create the illusion of more space and make a small bathroom look bigger. If you want a freestanding bathtub, choose one with feet to elevate the tub – that way, your flooring will be fully on show.

Lighting should not be overlooked, as the bathroom lighting you choose can have a huge impact on the look and feel of your bathroom.

'Assess your lighting at the planning stage to maximise opportunities,' advises Peter Bowles, founder of Davey Lighting at Original BTC.

'You need two types of illumination when planning your bathroom lighting: shadow-free task lighting for functional tasks, such as shaving and applying make-up, and ambient lighting for when you simply want to lie back and enjoy a soak,' he adds.

The star of the show in this space is one of those things you don't see too often in a wet space: painted wooden floorboards.

'I have a wooden floor in my bathroom, and those floorboards are over 100 years old, because they are original to the house. However, they stand up really well to moisture because they are well protected with yacht varnish,' says Homes & Gardens' Editor in Chief, Lucy Searle. 'Mine are lime-washed but I love this look which is crisp but vintage.'

If you have your heart set on a freestanding tub but are restricted on space, consider a reduced-depth model, like this compact design from The Albion Bath Company.

What material the bathtub is made of may be a deciding factor, too – while a cast -iron tub may have a high-quality appearance, it’s weight may be a drawback if your floorboards are not reinforced.

Bright pops of color don’t have to be restricted to the wall anymore, with options to have colorful washbasins and toilets, tiles and even brassware greater than ever before. Warm, earthy tones create a sense of calm, whereas bolder hues can feel more energizing.

Chinoiserie is having a resurgence in popularity at the moment – and the bathroom is a wonderful place to indulge in it – although we should mention that it looks fabulous in powder rooms, too.

Want to create a cohesive look? Try sticking to a theme. Wherever possible, make sure you see samples of all the paint you are considering, fabrics, tiles and even your brassware. Check they work well together before committing to a full order.

You don’t want to have your whole bathroom tiled before realizing it doesn’t match with the furniture you picked out.

Importantly, larger format, matte, one-color tiled walls are more on trend than intricate patterns for this tile-shape.

This, of course, gives you a wonderful opportunity to use color-blocking within the bathroom for a dramatic finish – whether you choose bold shades or a more neutral approach.

Vintage bathroom vanities are on the rise in bathroom design, and can be combined with new traditional-style fittings that match without compromising on functionality.

And wall-mounted mixer faucets work well in compact bathrooms, as the pipework can be hidden without the need for a pedestal.

Introducing exotic stone is another wonderful way of lifting a bathroom scheme. Real stone requires a larger budget, but you can find convincing lookalikes that are just as beautiful, without the high price tag or care and maintenance.

This basin is actually custom-made from 6mm-thick porcelain tiles to create a convincing natural agate.

Bathroom Design Studio’s managing director John Naughten says, ‘Thanks to the many advances in surface technologies, the design of porcelains inspired by precious stones are now incredibly lifelike, yet offer far easier cleaning and no aftercare.’

Maintain a clean and clutter-free washroom by making sure you have plenty of storage worked into your design. Compact spaces especially will benefit from smart small bathroom storage.

Keep everyday items such as toothbrushes and soap close to hand, while cleaning products and extra toilet rolls can be stored out of sight in cupboards or drawers.

Terrazzo bathrooms are seeing a resurgence in our homes – something to consider when looking for bathroom ideas for surfaces such as countertops, backsplashes and even floors. Or, you could use it in a focal space, such as to line a shower.

It comes in a myriad of finishes and colors, so you can create a scheme that's unique and perfect for your space.

Don’t forget about finishing touches – towels, soap dispensers and objets d'art can help pull together the final look of your bathroom. Folded clean bathroom towels are a thoughtful touch in a guest bathroom.

Just make sure any valued items are situated away from wet areas of the bathroom to avoid getting splashed.

Not only will a heated radiator keep towels warm and dry in your bathroom, but it can also help reduce the relative moisture in the air.

But how about going one step further and installing underfloor heating? This is definitley worth considering if you're looking at wet rooms and there are two options to choose from - an electric system or a wet system.

Electric systems are often preferable in smaller spaces as they are easier to install, whereas a wet system connected to your central heating tends to have an expensive initial outlay but may be more cost-effective in the long run.

Create a link between your bedroom and adjoining ensuite bathroom by using similar design cues throughout both spaces. With this in mind, you may adopt the same colors or use complementary materials between the two rooms.

For example, here, the monochrome pattern on the wallpaper in the bedroom is complimented by a similarly colored pattern on the bathroom floor, and the rich copper hue on the lampshade is echoed by the bathroom lighting.

While organic materials such as wood and stone are becoming more popular for shower flooring to evoke a feeling of wellbeing and connection to nature, they are not always the most practical solution.

Fortunately, there are alternatives available. 'It is now possible to achieve the look you want without the challenges and maintenance the real material can bring,' says Jo Oliver, Director at Stone & Ceramic Warehouse.

'Wood-effect porcelain tiles, for example, can also be supplied in large formats, which reduces the potential for leaks,' she adds.

The terms 'classic bathroom’ and ‘maximalism’ don’t tend to go hand in hand, but that's not to say they shouldn’t.

Now’s the time to bring your personality into your bathroom decor. If bright colors and bold patterns bring you joy, then you are more likely to enjoy spending time in your bathroom.

Another way to elevate your bathroom is to switch up your brassware.

While chrome fixtures offer a classic look, popular finishes such as gold and even rose-gold can add an interesting element – and are one of those ideas that can even be retro-fitted if you are not planning a complete renovation.

To make a real impact in a small shower room or wet room, match your bathroom floor tiles to the tiles on your walls. Not only will this add wow-factor to your bathroom, but the continuous running pattern creates a sleek, seamless look. Think of it as the equivalent of using a bold wallpaper.

Larger bathrooms benefit from definitive zones. Use different colors and materials as markers in your bathroom, such as patterned or colored bathroom tiles in the shower or around a vanity unit.

Another option is to add privacy screens in front of the shower or WC, which can be particularly useful for busy family bathrooms.

When working with a smaller space, pieces with dual-functionality are a must.

Take a mirrored cabinet as an example; not only can you keep your bathroom tidy by hiding away toiletries, but mirrors will help to reflect light around the room.

'Don’t be afraid to use a bold, statement wallpaper in the bathroom, it’s a great way of injecting personality into a small space and can bring character and warmth,' says Lee Clarke, Director at Warner House.

'If you are worried about using wallpaper in a bathroom, ask your decorator to use a water-resistant finish when installing,' he adds.

Whether your main bathroom or guest bathroom is on the compact side, opting for a white bathroom will make it feel larger, lighter and brighter.

In this bathroom by LA-based designer Stefani Stein, the bathroom has been made to feel larger with narrow tiles hung horizontally, which tricks the eye into seeing the space as wider than it is – this visual trick is useful for correcting awkward proportions.

In an all-white bathroom, it's important to add some texture, detail and warmth. Here, gold-finish fittings add warmth, detail is added in the patterned floor tiles and, of course, you can easily add texture with accessories such as baskets and towels.

This is a simple but very effective idea – a see-through screen that hides the toilet. Of course, you could erect a half- or foreshortened wall here, but his simple solution allows light to penetrate into the entirety of the room, and allows a clear view of the window beyond.

Black and white can be extremely elegant if you get the balance right: namely, more white than black, but black in key places, such as the sides of a freestanding bathtub.

Our advice? Add warmth to the space with natural accessories, such as basketwork and colorful towels.

This bathroom layout is planned for impact. The glass panel directly behind the bath in this bathroom is also the shower screen for the enormous walk-in double shower.

The other clever detail is the tiled wall that matches the floor: it creates a smart, streamlined finish that not only frames the bath in the view, but is also warm and interesting to look at.

Bathrooms benefit from plenty of natural light so if your washroom is lucky to have an excess of bathroom windows, it's worth investing in shutters instead of light blocking drapes of blinds.

Shutters will to allow you to maintain the right amount of privacy when required and open out the space to full light when not.

Black works wonderfully well with a large selection of colors. Colored tiles laid diagonally are all the more eye-catching against dark flooring and fittings.

Statement bathroom tiles can bring a new dimension to a washspace and elevate the space. Whether you choose monochrome patterns for the floor or tile up the wall by your basin, it will add a point of visual interest.

To elevate your design further, mix it up with different shaped tiles such as hexagons or a mixture of large and small squares joined together.

Fitting well into the industrial style, these dark and rather striking windows add sharp angles and allow for plenty of light to flood into this modern bathroom.

But they don't have to just be used as windows; Crittall shower screens are also proving ultra-popular and make a cool alternative to clear glass.

In this inviting bathroom, the block color of the wall panelling and floor allows a wonderfully whimsical wallpaper with a strong motif to shine. Meanwhile, understated border details on the curtain and the towels help to pull the look together for a cohesive feel.