Whatever bathroom trend forecasts were made for 2020, they were certainly out the window before the end of March when the majority of the world went into lockdown.
Anything that affects society on such a deep emotional level usually exerts directional change on future design choices, so for the rest of 2020 and into the New Year, you will see trends skew towards the aesthetics of restraint, tradition and comfort alongside a renewed need for practicality and space.
Human nature will see us all yearning for organic shapes, nature indoors, the cocooning warmth of textures and a bit of spa-like luxury, especially in the bathroom and the vital role it plays in home self-care.
The Right Curves
Freestanding or back-to-wall baths are back on the design scene but they’re looking a bit curvier featuring a new matte finish. Visually appealing, an oval bath or one with rounded corners make for a soft contrast to the straight lines and more geometric shapes of a standard bathroom. Typically deeper than they are wide, bathers sit cocooned by water and able to manoeuvre comfortably. All-around access makes them a practical choice for those with children.
Bowl Basins
Bathroom sinks are also saying goodbye to the traditional rectangle, welcoming vessel basins in an array of ergonomic styles and shapes. When paired with exposed plumbing and stone counter tops, you have a piece of functional art that does not let the size of the bathroom deter you from evoking a luxurious sanctuary. A popular combination will be a rectangle vanity top softened at the edges and complemented by a curvaceous basin.
Textured Tapware
Much like earthy colour palettes and natural finishes becoming increasingly popular in interiors, textured and patterned tapware is a trend taking hold in the bathroom. Designed to create a bespoke, handcrafted look, textured tapware is a nod towards the artisanal and unique. Providing a nice, tactile finish to the tap, texture can enhance a space by introducing an unexpected design element. Look for finely serrated grooves and knurled surfaces to appear, especially on handles, and soft-brushed finishes.
Magic Metals
In recent year’s matte black wetware became the new neutral, adding stylish contrast to interiors. While black is by no means over as a bathroom trend, 2021 will see timeless metallics making a comeback. Soft-brushed gold, bronze and copper can be warm, tactile, bounce light, introduce a little bit of glamour to any space and look particularly good when paired with other natural finishes like timber.
Step back in time
Anything about design or décor before the coronavirus had to consider the ‘farmhouse factor’ – and due to its homely, reassuring feel, we will see a turn back to the romantic design, rustic elegance and tranquil allure of the modern colonial bathroom. Vintage look floor mounted bath mixers with spray hand showers, shower towers and accessories will all echo a simpler time.
Floating Vanities
As a bathroom design element, floating vanities are certainly having their time in the sun. Wall mounted and suspended above floor level, they can have a significant impact in both small and large bathrooms by adding a sense of space.
It is safe to say the bathrooms of 2021 will showcase bold and bespoke choices to evoke an overall feeling of homely luxury.
Contact Waterware today for more information on The Waterware Collection for 2020/21
Visit www.waterware.co.nz or call 0800 WATERWARE / 09 273 9191