Skip to main content

8 popular bathroom styles that just might inspire a remodel

Bathrooms are one of the most popular rooms to revamp in a home. The design you select says a lot about who you are and what your personal style is. Finding the right one can be overwhelming. Do you gravitate toward a modern aesthetic? Maybe you love traditional? How about a rustic or farmhouse look? Which of these popular bathroom designs speaks to you? Sometimes, the best place to start is with a little inspiration. Here, we explore a few of the most popular bathroom styles and highlight the hallmarks of each to help you determine your perfect match.

traditional bathroom
Ambient Ideas/Shutterstock

Traditional

This look relies on paying homage to classic details. It will include attention to architectural detail by using decorative trim and paneled cabinetry. Lines will be more flowing, and the materials used will have a timeless feel. A clawfoot and pedestal tub would fit right into this space. Counters are often made of marble, quartz, and granite. For lighting, chandeliers or antique-inspired sconces are the favorites.

Trademark details:

  • Furniture-style vanity with trim
  • Classic lighting with shades
  • Luxurious stone counters and flooring
  • Free-standing tub
  • Elegant fixtures and hardware
rustic bathroom with stone walls
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Rustic

No frilly or fancy trim here. Rustic interiors pull inspiration from the outdoors by incorporating organic elements like reclaimed wood and natural stone. Think solid pieces that create a cozy, warm feel without any fussy details. A feature wall with aged wood or rough stone detailing is the perfect backdrop in a rustic space.

Trademark details:

  • Use of rough natural stone
  • Wood flooring
  • Bringing elements of the outdoors in
  • Sturdy fixtures with a classic aesthetic
sleek modern bathroom
Max Vakhtbovych / Pexels

Modern

Sleek and streamlined, these bathrooms offer a clean look with strong lines. Pieces throughout the space should be geometric with no fussy detailing or ornamentation, and surfaces should be uncluttered. Color is often minimal, but a striking detail such as an unusual natural stone can make a design stand out.

Trademark details:

  • Sleek, clean lines
  • Glass enclosures
  • No fussy ornamentation
  • Minimal-style hardware and lighting
transitional style bathroom
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Transitional

Transitional takes modern and traditional elements to create a look that includes timeless components yet still feels current. When done well, it doesn’t veer too far in one direction or another. Instead, it perfectly marries the two for just the right balance. It can also be a good compromise if two people involved in the decision-making have different aesthetics.

Trademark details:

  • Feels timeless yet contemporary
  • Shaker-style cabinetry
  • Uses classic elements with updated application
  • Clean, unfussy hardware
Mediterranean style bathroom
Ksenia Chernaya / Pexels

Mediterranean

This look gets its inspiration from the sunny coastal regions that border the Mediterranean Sea. It imparts a global feel with warm woods, brick, stone, hand-painted tiles, and earthy colors. Rich wood tones and furniture-style pieces bring a vintage European vibe to this space.

Trademark details:

  • Global-inspired lighting
  • Unusual architectural detail
  • Warm paint colors
  • Antique-inspired cabinetry
boho inspired bathroom
brizmaker / Adobe Stock

Boho

If you are looking to create a relaxing, retreat-inspired space, boho may be for you. This popular look is about mixing in well-worn pieces from all over the world from different time periods. It is more about telling a story than sticking to one style. Think patterned rugs, organic global accents, plants, and groupings of candles.

Trademark details:

  • Eclectic mix of vintage pieces
  • Use of organic materials
  • Plenty of botanicals
  • Unique lighting
industrial style bathroom
archideaphoto / Shutterstock

Industrial

The industrial look is a nod to the utilitarian practicality of factories and warehouses. It incorporates simple, tough materials that are free of ornamentation. There is nothing frilly about an industrial space—the pieces selected should be solid and sturdy. When it comes to color, minimal and aged weathered surfaces reign.

Trademark details:

  • Practical, sturdy pieces
  • Use of metal piping
  • Sturdy lighting fixtures
  • Minimal color
farmhouse style bath
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Farmhouse

Channel your inner Joanna Gaines for the ever-popular farmhouse-style bathroom. Homespun, simple elements that play off the inviting charm of a rural setting make this look long-lasting. Nothing too ornate or trendy with the farmhouse look, just the comfort of an uncomplicated, rustic design done in a way that feels fresh.

Trademark details:

  • White shiplap
  • Rustic cabinetry
  • Black wrought iron
  • Use of classic materials such as subway tiles
Recommended Videos

Choosing the right style is key when it comes to redesigning your bathroom. Each one has its own characteristics, but you will have a space that feels like home by finding the one that speaks to you.

Topics
Darcey Gohring
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Darcey Gohring is a freelance writer based just outside New York City. She served as the managing editor of New Jersey…
8 gorgeous guest bathroom ideas to transform this bonus space
You don't have to skimp on style when it comes to your guest spaces
Large guest bathroom with glass shower

Not sure how to make your guest spaces pop? When designing a guest bathroom, you want to create a feeling that's welcoming and comfortable while also showcasing your personal style. Whether you're remodeling a small bathroom or a larger one, these guest bathroom ideas will inspire you to make it a place that leaves a lasting impression.

Let’s dive into some creative ways to transform your bonus bathroom into a stunning retreat that guests will adore.
1. Go simple with a minimalist design

Read more
Dark, dramatic, and modern: Here’s how to style an all-black bathroom
Move over, white: These gorgeous black bathrooms ideas prove a dark palette works, too
Black bathroom wall with black sink and plant decor

White bathrooms are a thing of the past, as gorgeous all-black bathrooms make their way into our interiors. The all-black bathroom is dark, dramatic, and modern, perfect for creating a warm and inviting space fit for relaxation. But styling an all-black bathroom can be tricky. If done poorly, you might wind up with a space that feels flat and lackluster.

To prevent your all-black bathroom from looking like a nightmare, we’ve gathered some amazing Instagram designs that are sure to inspire your next update. So say goodbye to the all-white interior and use these tips to create a luxe and intimate aesthetic in your black bathroom.
Open up the palette to additional dark colors
https://www.instagram.com/p/Cnn8c2cM8_I/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

Read more
Transform your bathroom with these gorgeous mirror decor ideas
Your bathroom mirror is the focal point of your space. Here are some stunning bathroom mirror ideas you need to see
Dark blue contemporary bathroom with white double sinks

The bathroom mirror is often one of the major focal points of the room. Interior designers put a lot of thought and intention into choosing the perfect bathroom mirror since it can radically transform your room design. From adding a luxe touch to inviting a more seamless and natural visual appeal, the bathroom mirror can turn a drab space into an elegant oasis.

Here are 10 stunning mirror decor ideas that will help you elevate your bathroom and transform your space into an inviting retreat.
Classic mirror ideas for your bathroom

Read more