All-White Bathrooms Are Losing Their Shine

For years, the all-white bathroom was the ultimate symbol of cleanliness and luxury. But according to recent surveys in 2024, homeowners and designers are now turning away from these stark spaces.

Many experts note that white-on-white can look cold and even sterile, lacking the personality people crave in their homes. The National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) reports a surge in demand for warmer tones and rich textures, with beige and greige replacing cool whites.

Designers also point out that white bathrooms are difficult to keep spotless, as every smudge and water spot is glaringly obvious. In fact, a 2023 Houzz study found a 27% decrease in all-white bathroom renovations compared to the previous year.

People want bathrooms that feel inviting, not like a hospital ward. Homeowners now seek out color, pattern, and even bold wallpaper to bring their bathrooms to life.

Glossy Subway Tiles Are Out

Subway tiles have been a staple in bathroom design for over a decade, but their reign is coming to an end. Experts say glossy white subway tiles, in particular, are falling out of favor because they have become too common and lack originality.

Data from the 2024 Bathroom Trends Report by Zillow shows a 32% drop in searches for “subway tile bathrooms” since 2022. Designers are now opting for matte, textured finishes and unique tile shapes to create visual interest.

Large-format tiles and handmade zellige tiles are becoming increasingly popular because they offer a custom, artisanal feel. The shift away from glossy subway tiles also reflects a broader trend toward bathrooms that feel warm and personal rather than generic.

Overly Ornate Vanities No Longer Impress

Heavy, ornate vanities with intricate carvings and detailing were once seen as a mark of elegance. Today, however, most homeowners and interior designers see them as dated and difficult to maintain.

According to the 2024 Home Design Forecast by HGTV, minimalistic and streamlined vanities are now the top choice, with 71% of renovators choosing clean-lined options. The main reason is practicality: ornate vanities can be hard to clean and take up unnecessary space.

People want functional storage, easy-to-wipe surfaces, and a look that won’t feel outdated in just a few years. Floating vanities and wall-mounted cabinets are now preferred, giving the bathroom a more spacious and airy feel.

Excessive Marble Is Fading Away

Marble has long been a go-to for luxury bathrooms, but experts say the era of floor-to-ceiling marble is coming to a close. Designers argue that too much marble can overwhelm a space and make it feel cold and uninviting.

The 2024 NKBA survey reveals that only 18% of new bathroom projects now feature marble as the main material, down from 41% just two years ago. Homeowners are seeking variety, mixing materials like quartz, porcelain, and even wood for a more balanced and textured look.

Not only does this approach add warmth, but it also helps control renovation costs, as marble remains one of the priciest materials on the market.

Large, Built-In Bathtubs Are Being Replaced

Once considered the ultimate luxury, oversized built-in bathtubs are no longer a must-have in modern bathrooms. Recent data from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) shows that more than 55% of new bathroom remodels now exclude large tubs altogether.

People are prioritizing walk-in showers and wet rooms, which are easier to access and maintain. Freestanding tubs, when included, are more compact and sculptural, fitting seamlessly into smaller spaces.

Experts point out that homeowners now value functionality and efficient use of space over the grand, jacuzzi-style tubs of the past.

Matching Hardware Sets Are Outdated

Bathroom hardware—think faucets, towel bars, and drawer pulls—used to come in perfectly matched sets, but this approach is quickly becoming old-fashioned. Mixing metals and finishes is now considered stylish and modern.

According to a 2024 design survey by Remodelista, 62% of designers say they intentionally blend different hardware finishes for a more curated, collected look. This trend allows for more creativity and prevents the bathroom from feeling too “cookie-cutter.” Mixing matte black with polished nickel or brass can add depth and character to the space, making it feel more like a stylish retreat than a showroom.

Wall-to-Wall Mirrors Feel Outdated

There was a time when installing a giant, wall-to-wall mirror was seen as a smart way to make a bathroom feel bigger and brighter. But experts now agree that these oversized mirrors can actually make a space feel bland and impersonal.

Data from a 2023 Houzz poll found that 71% of renovators prefer smaller, framed mirrors, often in unique shapes or with decorative edges. These mirrors add personality and create a focal point, while still reflecting light.

Designers recommend using multiple mirrors or even vintage finds for a more interesting look. This approach turns the mirror into a design element rather than just a functional necessity.

Overly Themed Bathrooms Are Out

In the past, some homeowners went all-in on themes—think nautical bathrooms with anchors everywhere or “spa-inspired” spaces with bamboo overload. Experts now warn that heavily themed bathrooms can quickly become outdated and even tacky.

The 2024 NKBA trend report indicates that 83% of designers now recommend a timeless, neutral backdrop with just a few nods to any theme through art or accessories. This allows the bathroom to evolve over time with simple updates, rather than requiring a full renovation when tastes change.

Subtlety and sophistication are replacing obvious, in-your-face themes.