Embracing Modern Trends in Bathroom Design
Welcome to the ever-evolving world of bathroom design, where innovation and style take center stage. Bathrooms, once purely functional, have blossomed into havens of relaxation. Picture your bathroom as more than just a practical space – envision it as a welcoming retreat, ready to embrace a touch of contemporary elegance.
In this shift from utilitarian to luxuriant spaces, staying current with design trends is key to ensuring your bathroom resonates with the spirit of today. Explore the exciting landscape of bathroom design and discover insights into the top trends that can redefine your bathroom experience.
Your bathroom isn't just a room; it's a space waiting to be personalized with elements that bring both luxury and modernity to life. With the right choices, your bathroom can transform into a sanctuary where style effortlessly blends with comfort. Let’s take a look at a few of the latest trends in bathroom design – because your bathroom deserves to be as welcoming as the rest of your home.
Curbless Showers
What Is a Curbless Shower?
Curbless showers represent a paradigm shift in bathroom design, seamlessly blending form and function. The term "curbless" refers to the absence of a traditional step or curb at the shower entrance. This design not only lends a contemporary and visually appealing look but also offers several practical advantages.
What Are the Advantages of a Curbless Shower?
Accessibility: Curbless showers provide easy access, making them an excellent choice for individuals with mobility challenges or those looking to age in place. The absence of a curb eliminates tripping hazards, creating a more inclusive space.
Visual Appeal: The sleek and open design of curbless showers contributes to a modern and luxurious aesthetic. It creates a sense of continuity, making the bathroom appear more spacious and cohesive.
Easy Maintenance: Curbless showers simplify cleaning routines. Without the hindrance of a curb, there are fewer nooks and crannies for dirt and grime to accumulate, resulting in a more hygienic and low-maintenance shower space.
Importance of Waterproofing and Drainage in Curbless Showers:
Ensuring the longevity of a curbless shower design requires careful attention to waterproofing and drainage. The Schluter®-Shower System comes into play as a comprehensive solution, offering waterproofing membranes and drains that seamlessly integrate into the overall design, preventing water damage and ensuring a watertight enclosure.
Schluter Products to Consider:
Schluter®-KERDI and Schluter®-KERDI-BOARD: These products create a waterproofing barrier, protecting the underlying structure from water damage.
Schluter Shower Trays: These prefabricated shower trays feature integrated waterproofing and a properly sloped surface, ensuring effective water drainage.
Schluter®-KERDI-DRAIN / KERDI-LINE / KERDI-LINE-VARIO: These drainage solutions complement curbless showers, efficiently managing water flow, and combine seamlessly with the Schluter®-Shower System.
Schluter®-KERDI-DRAIN-F floor drain: This secondary option adds an extra drainage solution in environments that see lots of water—but designed for floors, not showers, so think large bathrooms or laundry rooms for instances where it’s better to be safe than sorry!
LED-Lit Shower Niches
Why Do I Want LED Lighting in My Shower Niche?
The integration of LED lighting in shower niches is a transformative trend that goes beyond mere illumination. It adds a layer of sophistication and creates a spa-like atmosphere, turning your shower into a haven of relaxation.
LED-lit shower niches elevate the bathroom experience by introducing soft, warm lighting. The play of light and shadow enhances the overall ambiance, creating a tranquil and soothing environment. The versatility of LED lighting opens a realm of design possibilities. Dimming capabilities allow for adjustable brightness, catering to different preferences and scenarios.
Schluter Products to Consider:
Schluter®-KERDI-BOARD-SNLT with LIPROTEC LED lighting: This product not only serves as a niche but has integrated LED lighting. It ensures code compliancy and a secure foundation for the lighting system. Your choice of tile can be directly applied to KERDI-BOARD-SNLT niche.
Schluter®-FINEC-SQ: This profile adds a polished and finished look around the niche, ensuring a minimalist, visually appealing transition.
Schluter®-SHELF-N: These niche shelves feature designs that are crafted to allow light to shine through, enhancing the visual impact of the LED-lit shower niche.
Pictured: KERDI-BOARD-SNLT with SHELF-N
Large Format Tile
What are Large Format Tiles?
Large format tiles have become a staple in modern bathroom design, offering a contemporary and expansive aesthetic. The trend is characterized by tiles that are typically exceeding 15” on at least one side.
What are the Benefits of Large Format Tiles?
Fewer Grout Lines: One of the primary advantages is the reduction of grout lines, creating a more seamless and visually clean appearance. This not only enhances the overall aesthetic but also simplifies cleaning and maintenance.
Spacious and Sophisticated Look: Large format tiles contribute to a sense of grandeur, making the bathroom space feel more expansive and sophisticated. This is particularly effective in smaller bathrooms, creating an illusion of openness.
Versatility in Application: Large format tiles are not limited to floors; they can also be used on walls and even in shower enclosures. This versatility allows for a cohesive design throughout the entire bathroom.
Schluter Products to Consider:
Schluter®-DITRA: This uncoupling membrane provides reliable support for large format tile installations on floors and prevents cracks to ensure a stable and long-lasting tile floor.
Schluter®-DITRA-HEAT: For those looking to add warmth to their bathroom floors, this option combines uncoupling and electric floor heating for a luxurious experience. Bring it right into the shower for an extra touch of glam!
Schluter®-JOLLY: This profile protects tile edges on walls and provides a polished finish, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of large format tiles.
Additional Considerations for Large Format Tile
When dealing with large-format tiles, it is crucial to categorize and treat them as specialty products. Recognizing this distinction is pivotal for achieving success in installation projects. To navigate this process confidently, it is strongly recommended to consult directly with the tile manufacturer or vendor. Manufacturers and vendors often maintain a curated list of experienced installers with specialized knowledge in handling large-format tiles. This ensures a level of precision and expertise crucial to the success of the project. Additionally, seeking guidance on the appropriate setting materials is paramount. Manufacturers and vendors serve as valuable resources, offering insights into the recommended adhesives, grouts, and other essentials tailored to maximize the potential of large-format tiles. Approaching this undertaking responsibly and acknowledging the unique characteristics of large-format tiles lays the groundwork for a successful and enduring installation.
To sum up, embracing these three key trends in bathroom design — curbless showers, LED-lit shower niches, and large format tiles — is your gateway to transforming your space. These trends provide a contemporary and calm touch to your bathroom, creating an environment that goes beyond mere functionality.
Whether you're aiming for a sleek curbless shower, a spa-like atmosphere with LED-lit niches, or a modern look with large format tiles, Schluter has you covered. Explore our website, engage with us on social media, and check out our YouTube channel for a wealth of information and inspiration for your next bathroom project.