2016 Bathroom Trends

While the bathroom is a place of contemplation, comfort and luxury, it’s also one of the busiest rooms in the house and functionality is key.

Whether you’re updating your bathroom or building a new home and looking for some inspiration, you’ll need some advice from the experts.

The following information and images are from the 2016 Mico Bathroom Book - click here to download the booklet.

Natural Materials Are Key

New Zealanders love incorporating natural products in their design and this year timber, stone and metal will all be popular.  Timber and timber veneer surfaces were more popular than ever in 2015, with timber-look tiles now commonly found on floors and shower walls.  Vanity units are also incorporating timber with seamless finishes in dark walnuts and chestnuts, or if you prefer a more fresh and elegant look then textured, pale timbers are a good option.

Natural, coloured, raw finished and engineered stone will be a key feature in 2016. These are found in slabs or tiles of rust, blackened and washed concrete and coloured marbles of deep inky purple and lime yellow.  Most popular has been the ultra-luxe look of Carrera marble, for a contemporary and moody feel.

Metals such as rose gold, copper, pewter and brass have been hot favourites over the past two years, and you can add rust to the list in 2016.  Metal features can be found not only in basic hardware and plumbing fittings, but also in tiles, fabrics, wallpapers and paints to impart a glamorous yet rustic tone.

Minimalistic Glass Creates Sophistication

It’s not all about natural materials - glass has moved on from playing a big part in basic showers, mirrors and shelving, and is being used more and more in open showers which feature one large glass panel which celebrates, rather than hides the tilework and striking colours behind.  In 2016 and beyond, you can expect to see more use of coloured and laser-printed glass walls, splashbacks and mirrors.

Colours Add Impact

Blue is still the colour of choice for walls and tiles.  Last year we saw the emergence of moody blues, while this year indigo blues and inky blues are expected to take centre stage.  

Whites are trending to a green-base rather than the grey or beige undertones of recent years, while syrupy chocolate browns, plums, soft green and pale pinks have also entered the scene.  If you’re looking for a pop of colour - lime greens, rich zesty yellows and inky purples are the go-to shades.

Lighting Creates The Mood

Some creative thinking on placement of lights to cast light and shadows can add a whole new dimension to your bathroom. LED strip lights in negative detailing for example, will flood a feature wall or large mirror with light, creating a warm, relaxed feel.

It’s no easy feat to create a well designed bathroom space, but good planning, a close relationship with your builder and a well thought out design will ensure the job gets done right.  Pop in to your local David Reid Homes builder, or closest Mico Bathroom showroom for more inspiration and advice about creating a functional, beautiful bathroom that will be a haven for your family.