If you’re planning a bathroom renovation in 2026, you’re in for a treat. Homeowners are becoming bolder, braver, and more intentional with their bathroom design choices and the trends for 2026 reflect this perfectly.
Think richer colours, warmer textures, smarter tech, and spaces that feel far more like a personal retreat than a purely practical room.
Here’s our guide to the bathroom trends that will define the year.
1. Fun Colour Palettes Make a Comeback
Neutral bathrooms will always have their place, but in 2026 we’re seeing colour take centre stage in a big way.
Colour-Drenching With Tiles
Instead of using colour sparingly, homeowners are embracing full-colour walls, floors, and even ceilings through bold tile choices.
Expect to see:
Soft retro pastels
Rich terracotta tones
Muted coastal blues
Deep autumnal shades
Whether you choose a solid tile or a patterned design, colour drenching helps create a cohesive, confident, and playful look.
A Hint of Retro
Bathroom design is leaning into nostalgic influences – soft pinks, rusty oranges, and earthy 70s tones provide warmth and character without feeling dated.
Image Credit Homes and Gardens
2. Texture Takes Centre Stage
Smooth, shiny bathrooms are taking a step back as homeowners look for more tactile, layered spaces.
Textured Tiles
Rough-cut stone, uneven glazed tiles, and decorative ridged finishes instantly add interest and depth.
Fluted Furniture
Fluted bathroom vanities and ribbed cabinetry (following the growing trend in kitchen design) bring subtle movement to otherwise simple shapes.
Microcement Everything
Image Credit: Forcrete
Microcement continues to rise in popularity for bathrooms, its seamless finish works beautifully across floors, walls, and even basins. It’s warm, minimal, and ideal for creating spa-like continuity.
3. Spa Vibes Through Smarter Tech
We’re seeing a big rise in wellness-driven bathrooms, and technology plays a leading role. This high-tech bathroom in Woodley is a great example of the tech choices homeowners can add to level-up their brand new bathroom.
Remote-Controlled Showers
Imagine stepping into your shower already at the perfect temperature and you haven’t even turned a dial. Remote systems, app-connected controls, and pre-set profiles are becoming more accessible.
Thermostatic Controls
These aren’t just about convenience; they help maintain water temperature consistently, improving energy efficiency and comfort.
4. Walk-In Showers Continue Their Rise
In 2026, the walk-in shower moves from a luxury add-on to a staple feature.
Why They’re So Popular
They create a clean, open feel.
They’re brilliant for accessibility and future-proofing.
Large-format tiles or microcement walls create a seamless, soothing effect.
Frameless glass keeps the look uncluttered.
Whether it’s a grand double shower or a compact walk-in replacing an old bath, this trend is here to stay.
5. Warm Woods Take Over
Just like in the 2026 kitchen trends, warm wood tones will be everywhere in 2026’s bathrooms.
Image Credit: Drench
Why Homeowners Love It
Wood brings instant comfort to what can otherwise be a cold, clinical room. Expect:
Walnut vanities
Oak shelving
Wooden bath trays
Bamboo accessories
Pair warm woods with tactile tiles or natural stone for a truly soothing atmosphere.
Bringing It All Together: Bathrooms That Feel Like You
2026 is all about character, comfort, and clever design. It’s a move away from one-style-fits-all bathrooms and toward spaces that suit your personality and lifestyle.
Whether that’s a spa-inspired escape, a bold retro haven, or a calm, muted sanctuary, these trends give you the freedom to truly personalise your space.
Ready to Plan Your 2026 Bathroom?
Our architectural designers can help you bring your ideas to life with moodboards, samples, and layouts tailored to your home.
Visit our showroom to explore tiles, wood finishes, cabinets, and more in person, nothing beats seeing and touching the materials yourself.