bathroom trends

     Bathroom lighting has changed as much as any aspect of the home in the past decade. Simple vanity lighting is no longer enough for many homeowners who seek the same flattering and helpful layering of lighting for effect, tasks, and ambiance.

     Bathrooms in master suites continue to echo the trend toward spa-like spaces, according to the   experts. “Today the master bathroom is definitely the ‘retreat zone,” says Jackie Cox of Chris’s Custom Cabinets. “It’s where we can go to pamper ourselves after a long day. Each master bathroom should be designed to give the homeowner some well-deserved ‘me’ time.”

     According to Shannon Erwin of Hantel Kitchens & Baths, “Homeowners are looking for an updated effect in their bathrooms with easy-to-maintain materials and features such as frameless shower doors, separate handheld showerheads, and comfort-height toilets. We see a trend toward more spa-like showers and fewer and fewer tubs.”

     Melinda Dupree of Boyce Cabinet Solutions reports the economy effects our choices and how we view our surroundings. Bathroom design      now aims to achieve a spa-like sanctuary in the home where a person can find tranquility. Function, openness, relaxed, easy-to-clean, and sterile are top requirements for bathroom remodels, she says.

     Master suite baths generally feature soft, subtle hints of color creating a calm, serene atmosphere, according to Sharon Rampenthal of Ta-Dah Designs. “Luxury is at the top of the list with heated flooring, towel warmers, frameless showers, and multiple shower heads,” she says. “While neutrals remain the backdrop, we’re seeing subtle infusions of browns, blues, greens, golds, and silvers.  

     Travertine tile, limestone, and concrete pavers are some of the most sought-after surface preferences.”

     Rochelle Coll of Nashville Glass Co. says most homeowners are increasing the size of the bathrooms and bedrooms. “They want the tranquility experience in their own little world,” she says. While many are planning for greater accessibility as they age at home, some are just tearing out old baths and installing updated frameless shower enclosures for easier cleanup and to enhance the look of new tilework.

     Rainhead showers on the ceiling, several body sprays, and handheld shower wands contribute to the feeling of a “spa getaway,” according to Jennifer Shogren of Ferguson Bath, Kitchen, & Lighting Gallery.

     Karen Moughler of Kitchen Tune-Up reports that homeowners with older bathrooms often opt to replace the vanity with a taller version as part of a remodel, adding extra storage and reducing back strain. In addition, she sees quartz surfaces finding favor for countertops.

     Saying that countertops are generally granite or marble, while floors and shower surrounds are generally travertine tile is Jim Stuby of Showplace Design Center. “Floors and walls are frequently neutral earthtone while countertops are often darker and dramatic,” he says.

     Interior designer Ameliè de Gaulle says that free-standing tubs is a growing trend in luxury baths. “Homeowners stay at hotels worldwide and are inspired by Asian spas and European chateaus. They want convenience and elegance coupled  with peace and relaxation.” de Gaulle works with Gaertner Cabinets Co.

     There are a number of sources for bathroom design in the Greater Nashville area including:

Ameliè de Gaulle Interiors
Nashville
615/ 297-1612

Boyce Cabinet Solutions
Brentwood
615/ 376-9727

Chris’s Custom Cabinets
Nashville
615/ 385-4044

Designs by Anna Aycock
Brentwood
615/ 794-7561

Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery
Murfreesboro
615/ 890-5599

Gaertner Cabinet Co.
Nashville
615/ 297-1612

Hantel Kitchens & Baths
Nashvillle
615/ 292-3020

Kitchen Tune-Up
Franklin
615/ 595-0753

Nashville Glass  Co.
Nashville
615/ 254-1345

Showplace Fashion Center
Nashville
615/ 627-0920

Ta-Dah Designs
Hendersonville
615/ 824-0888