To make a bathroom remodel timeless, focus first on the layout. The flow and function, the placement of every feature, must make sense. That’s what endures.
After that, it’s time to choose materials and finishes. Today, we’re discussing what makes a timeless, elegant bathroom. No matter the size of your space, specific choices age much better than others.
Designing a timeless bathroom remodel, five ways.
Adding something fresh, current, and even trendy can keep your bathroom interesting. But if you want your remodel to build a foundation of classic style and timeless function, here are five ways to make it happen.
Neutral tile in all sizes and orientations.
Expertly set tile in shades of white, off-white, taupe, and yes, even beige, can stay fresh and functional for decades. You can change hardware, showerheads, paint, and so much more over the years. The tile will remain relevant. It’s an investment that’s practically impervious to remodel remorse.
And what about the shape and size? Mix it up. A no-slip penny tile floor, a subway tile-lined shower–this is where you can add texture, interest, and even more function to your timeless foundation.
Chrome or nickel fixtures and hardware.
Truthfully, you don’t have to pick a “timeless” faucet. This is an area that’s easy enough to update. Exploring different faucet styles and finishes over the years can keep your bathroom’s style fresh.
However, if you want something classic right now, skip matte black or polished brass. Satin or brushed nickel and polished chrome are where it’s at. If you appreciate gold tones more, unlacquered brass ready to acquire a patina is a great pick.
Classic design executed with luxury materials.
Richly-toned custom cabinetry and slabs of rare marble can work their way into timeless bathrooms–with some effort. A lot of luxury baths include luxury materials, but this doesn’t necessarily make them ageless. The designs are often really unmistakably contemporary.
A professional designer can help you incorporate luxury materials into a classic master bathroom. You’ll get an elegant, upscale look that won’t need an update by 2029.
Vanities including natural wood cabinets or stone countertops.
Including natural materials is always a bright idea. The example above shows how a timeless foundation can support personal touches and on-trend details.
A natural wood vanity with a stone countertop and neutral tiled floor and walls set the stage. The faucet and mirror speak to the moment, and the rug adds personal style.
A classic pattern or callback to the home’s original era.
Homes with history deserve some form of cultural preservation, even if the material or fixture is brand new.
Black and white checkerboard tile floors, white porcelain sinks, Art Deco-era borders and accents. These are just a few examples of “old” design elements that never look dated in a bathroom.
Find time to collaborate with a professional designer.
When a bathroom remodel goes right, you’d never guess style came in second to function. You may have vision, but a professional designer knows how to make it happen.
The Designery doesn’t just offer design expertise. Our locations feature showrooms stocked and stacked with options you won’t find at the home improvement store. Connections to craftspeople who customize, experienced tile setters–a whole host of pros ready to remodel a bathroom for the ages.
Find The Designery nearest you and book a free consultation to begin.
Timeless bathroom remodel FAQ
Are beige bathrooms outdated?
Beige is still a candidate for timeless bathroom remodels, but it very much depends on how it’s used.
Instead of making beige the headline (large format beige tile everywhere), use it as a neutral foundation. Add deep, warm, complementary wood cabinetry, reflective surfaces or natural light, and a bit of contrast through hardware or flooring.
What is the most timeless finish for bathroom fixtures?
Satin nickel or polished chrome. Chrome, in particular, is resurging in popularity. Many people still prefer satin or brushed finishes because they’re less likely to show water spots.
What bathroom trends aren’t timeless?
Timeless features can become a trend, and vice versa. Only time will tell! Subway tile is a great example of this. Instead of trying to avoid trends, focus on weeding out features that just don’t keep delivering.
Designers find that homeowners tire of very dark, dramatic colors after a few years. A lot of open shelving eventually becomes problematic too, as you must dust and declutter consistently.
Then there’s tech. Wi-Fi-enabled mirrors and smart shower heads will become obsolete and need updating not far down the road.
How to refresh a dated bathroom?
To update a bathroom without a full remodel, it helps to first perform a deep clean and declutter, repainting walls or trim. Move everything back in after optimizing storage. From there, changing the vanity hardware and replacing the faucet makes everything feel fresher.
Some homeowners find that investing in one top-quality feature, like a tile floor or custom vanity, tides them over until a complete remodel is possible.
