Survey Says: Rest and Relax in the Bathroom

We all deserve a little rest and relaxation nowadays. According to the 2021 Houzz U.S. Bathroom Trends study, two in five homeowners report using their renovated bathroom for R & R. And, we say, why not?

The top "Big Idea" from the study centered around rest and relaxation, saying cleanliness, lack of clutter and freshness are essential ingredients for creating a tranquil bathroom sanctuary. Lighting features are another big idea: Houzz says four in 5 renovating homeowners replace the lighting in their master bathroom, alleviating the pet peeves of insufficient lighting and no natural light. Dimmable lighting helps them unwind in their bathroom, and so does mood lighting added to the shower.

Here's a look at some of the trends the Houzz survey describes for the ultimate, spa-like and soothing bathroom.

Wall and Recessed Lighting
Among the 8 in 10 renovating homeowners who update light fixtures during their master bathroom renovation, wall and recessed lights remain the favorites. This bathroom features the Jeffrey Alan Marks Point Dume™ Lookout Sconce against a calming backdrop of wave-inspired wallpaper. Lookout has a modern classic styling that combines Brushed Nickel, clear seeded glass and handsome topstitched leather accents for an enduring sensibility that adds an uncomplicated elegance to any interior.

Landree | Image: Landmark Homes

Bath and Showers
The bathtub and shower are equally important features. 55% of renovators say soaking in the tub helps them relax and 54% enjoy long showers. However, while soaking tubs are a key feature added to help the spa-like feel of the bathroom, people are going away from traditional clawfoot-style tubs and going instead for flat-bottomed freestanding tubs like in this gorgeous bathroom. The Landree chandelier over the tub adds a luxurious touch, with a stunning inner candle cluster that appears to float inside a dramatic and elegant frame.

Elevate | Image: Toll Brothers

Soothing Luxury
More than half of homeowners surveyed find that long showers help calm them down. That percentage is nearly equal to the number of those who enjoy soaking in a bathtub. Live flowers and plants help establish a spa-like feel, and sound systems in the shower area are popular to create a soothing ambiance. Gold-finished lighting, plumbing and cabinet hardware add a luxurious touch. The Elevate vanity light has a mid-century modern style and a beautiful, Soft Brushed Bronze finish to complete the look.

Globe LED | Image: NJW Real Estate Ventures

Accent Walls, Floating Vanities and Pendants
Accent walls created from interesting surfaces are a popular upgrade for renovators. This year, accent walls outside and inside the shower area are almost equally common. Floating vanities are another hot choice. Of those who upgrade their vanity, the majority choose a custom vanity or a semicustom one. The customized approach explains why vanity cabinets are twice as likely to be built in as they are to be freestanding. In addition, natural wood tones create a relaxing, organic touch in the bath. And, more homeowners are choosing lighted mirrors, pendant lights, and undercabinet lights. Adding a pair of pendants instead of typical vanity lights over the sink area is a fresh design choice. The distinctive Globe pendants are accented by a striking metal polished chrome cap that holds a beautiful opal glass shade for the perfect amount of gentle illumination.

Are you renovating or thinking of renovating? Check out our Pinterest page. We have inspiration for every room of the house!