It's never a bad idea to go modern when designing a bathroom — whether it's a small half bath, guest bathroom or spacious primary suite. There's a big difference between a bathroom that's bland and one that is thoughtfully curated and full of personality. Not sure where to begin? Here, we're sharing the best modern bathroom ideas to help jumpstart the design process.
There are so many ways to introduce charm and style into your contemporary bathroom design — think eye-catching wall coverings, tile, hardware, lighting and beyond. That might mean hanging a funky mirror on the wall above the vanity, installing bathroom shelves for added storage or opting for trendy textures (ribbed designs are especially big at the moment). Prefer a setup that's a bit more simple in nature? You can't go wrong with classic black and white tones, neutral vanities and timeless white clawfoot tubs, either.
Keep in mind that you can execute a modern bathroom remodel without breaking the bank, so you'll find many budget-friendly ideas below. Sometimes all that's needed to majorly make over your space is swap out a builder-grade lighting or shower head for something a little more current. Keep reading for a ton of inspiring home ideas, many of which blend in popular design styles like mid-century, farmhouse, vintage and coastal.
1
Fixed Shower Doors
To make your bathing area appear more sleek and minimalistic, opt for a half shower door. It's an excellent design choice for small bathrooms as the space will feel more airy, too.
RELATED: 40 Stunning Walk-In Shower Ideas to Inspire Your Bathroom's Design
2
Irregular Wall Mirrors
Make like Lance Thomas of Thomas Guy Interiors and go for multiple mirrors in the bathroom for an open, contemporary feel. The ribbed detailing on the vanity adds a mod style and textural flair to the space.
3
Sky-High Marble
Take a cue from designer Robin Wilson and design a monochromatic bathroom by bringing your floor covering up to the walls. This marble design looks elegant, especially when paired with gold fixtures.
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4
Ceiling Mounted Mirrors
Don't let oversized windows in the bathroom cramp your style. Take note from A1000XBetter and position your vanity to enjoy the views of your yard, then install mirrors that hang from the ceiling so that you won't sacrifice function.
5
Glamourous Gold
This neutral bathroom is far from boring. Interior designer Jessica Risko Smith makes this space feel both peaceful and glam with plenty of gold accents, ranging from the side table beside the tub to the wall sconces hanging above the vanity.
6
Statement Lighting
Bye-bye, boob lights. Say hello to fixtures that are a bit more stylish instead, like this wavy number that hangs above the bathtub. Little details of this nature will go a long way in making your bathroom appear more sophisticated.
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7
Honeycomb Floor Tiles
Jessica Stull, owner of Parker Interiors, installed honeycomb-shaped floor tiles in this bathroom, which add a bit of visual interest without overwhelming the simple space.
RELATED: The Best Places to Buy Tile for Every Budget
8
Think Pink
Just because you're designing a modern bathroom doesn't mean you need to entirely steer clear of color. Here, a pink vanity really pops in this otherwise neutral bathroom and makes the space feel welcoming.
RELATED: 12 Top Paint Color Trends for 2023, According to Designers
9
An Element of Surprise
Rather than designing a classic black and white bathroom and calling it a day, design firm Pappas Miron worked an unexpected blue hue into the space in the form of a stylish mirror.
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10
Chevron Tile
Getting ready each morning is a real treat when you're greeted with a shower as lovely as this one. Designed by Melinda Kelson O'Connor Architecture & Interiors, this bathroom features stunning deep blue chevron tiles that are bound to put a little pep in your step.
11
Glass Chandelier
What could be more relaxing than unwinding from the day in a clawfoot tub while basking in the glow of a luxe chandelier? Nothing, if you ask us! Bring boutique hotel vibes to your own home with a setup like this one.
12
Gorgeous Brass Hardware
Designed by Nicole Hirsch Interiors, this bathroom features well-placed brass fixtures and hardware that give the setup a crisp and contemporary feel.
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13
Unique Marble Vanity
We often see wooden vanities with marble tops in the bathroom, but feel free to go all in with stone if you wish. Designer Sarah Barnard did just that in this small space, finishing off the look with a floral-inspired light fixture that is also an attention grabber.
14
Geometric Wallpaper
The bathroom is an excellent opportunity to go bold and task a risk when it comes to your wallpaper pattern. Here, a graphic black and white print instantly makes a statement in this space designed by Eclectic Home New Orleans.
RELATED: The Latest Wallpaper Trends Designers Are Loving
15
Whimsical Floor Tiles
Who says the bathroom has to be super serious? If you crave a dose of playfulness in your space, consider installing a floral tile pattern like this one, which is full of cheer and a dose of whimsy.
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16
Wood Slat Cabinetry
With a design that feels calm yet luxurious, this bright interior features fresh white walls, modern fixtures and large floor tiles. For a bit of contrast, there's a wood slat vanity that brings in a natural, earthy element.
RELATED: Bathroom Vanities That Are Next-Level Chic
17
Matte Black Details
Trendy yet timeless, matte black details make any interior feel more sleek. Here, the team at We Three Design goes for black light fixtures, wall tiles and a bathroom faucet to breathe life into this white room.
RELATED: Elegant Black Bathroom Ideas for a Timeless and Classic Look
18
Marble Shower Walls
Modern and minimal, this large shower designed by Collected Interiors features neutral marble tiles — plus, a built-in bench and open shelving in the same material.
RELATED: Stunning Marble Bathrooms That Radiate Polish and Style
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19
Moody Modern
Take a cue from Avery Cox Design and try a dark-hued color palette. This sleek bathroom is defined by its deep green wall tiles, black and white marble shower and black trim along the doorway.
RELATED: Green Bathroom Designs That Are Peaceful and Refreshing
20
Floating Vanity
Instead of extending all the way to the floor, this wood vanity is mounted to float on the wall — which gives this bathroom a chic feel and creates the illusion of more space.
Alyssa Gautieri
Associate Lifestyle Editor
Alyssa Gautieri (she/her) is the associate lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers all things home and interior design. Prior to joining GH in 2022, she wrote for publications including ELLE Decor, Chairish, BobVila.com, Unique Homes Magazine and LODGING Magazine, in addition to crafting product copy for home brands like BrylaneHome and VIGO Industries.
Sarah Lyon
Sarah Lyon is a New York City-based freelancer who produces interior design, travel and lifestyle content. Her work is featured in outlets including Apartment Therapy, Architectural Digest, MyDomaine, The Washington Post and The New York Times. Plus, her personal spaces have appeared on Apartment Therapy, The Everygirl, Houzz and more.
As an expert in modern bathroom design, I can provide you with information related to the concepts mentioned in this article. Here are some key points to consider:
Importance of a Thoughtful Design
- A well-designed modern bathroom can add charm and personality to any space, whether it's a small half bath or a spacious primary suite.
- Thoughtful curation of elements such as wall coverings, tile, hardware, lighting, and textures can make a significant difference in the overall aesthetic of the bathroom.
Design Ideas for a Modern Bathroom
- Fixed Shower Doors: Opting for a half shower door can create a sleek and minimalistic look, especially suitable for small bathrooms.
- Irregular Wall Mirrors: Using multiple mirrors in the bathroom can create an open and contemporary feel. Consider adding ribbed detailing on the vanity for a modern touch.
- Sky-High Marble: Extending the marble floor covering up to the walls can create an elegant and monochromatic look, especially when paired with gold fixtures.
- Ceiling Mounted Mirrors: If you have oversized windows in the bathroom, position your vanity to enjoy the views and install mirrors that hang from the ceiling for both functionality and style .
- Glamorous Gold: Incorporating gold accents, such as side tables, wall sconces, or fixtures, can add a touch of glamour to a neutral bathroom.
- Statement Lighting: Choose stylish and unique lighting fixtures, like wavy designs, to elevate the sophistication of your bathroom.
- Honeycomb Floor Tiles: Installing honeycomb-shaped floor tiles can add visual interest to a simple bathroom design.
- Colorful Accents: Don't shy away from adding color to a modern bathroom. Consider incorporating a pink vanity or unexpected blue hues to create a welcoming and surprising look.
- Geometric Patterns: Boldly use graphic patterns, such as chevron or geometric wallpaper, to make a statement in your bathroom [[14]].
- Wood Slat Cabinetry: Incorporating wood slat cabinetry can create a calm and luxurious feel in a modern bathroom [[16]].
- Matte Black Details: Adding matte black fixtures, wall tiles, and faucets can give your bathroom a sleek and timeless look [[17]].
- Marble Shower Walls: Using neutral marble tiles for your shower walls can create a modern and minimalistic design, especially when paired with built-in benches and open shelving [[18]].
- Dark Color Palettes: Experimenting with dark colors, such as deep green or black, can create a moody and modern atmosphere in your bathroom [[19]].
- Floating Vanity: Mounting a wood vanity on the wall instead of extending it to the floor can create a chic and spacious feel in your bathroom [[20]].
These are just a few ideas to get you started on designing a modern bathroom. Remember, the possibilities are endless, and you can always mix and match different elements to create a unique and personalized space.
