Trends in bath and kitchen design are ever evolving. If it’s time to refresh those spaces in your home, consider these updated designs.
Bathtubs
An old trend that has seen new popularity is the freestanding tub. There are many variations in this well-loved tub. Some replicate an old-time tub and tub filler (the faucet), and others trend toward modern designs that offer a sleeker vibe in the bathroom. The hardware, or faucets and drains, is primarily trending toward a brushed nickel look. However, Rich Allen, co-owner of Regal Bath & Kitchen, and a Rosie on the House Certified Partner, says they see matte black appearing more frequently.
Showers
Showers tend to be the large, walk-in style, replacing the old tub and shower combination. The days of the 36” x 36″ shower stalls are over. New showers tend to be three times that size. The showerheads have changed to include a traditional handheld showerhead and also a rain showerhead. The rain showerhead simulates rain by being directly above your head in the shower. Body spray nozzles deliver water horizontally and are also being included with more frequency.
Shower walls are trending to a large tile design with fewer and smaller grout joints. The current trendy tile is typically 24″ x 48”. Tile designs are all over the board, from simulating colorful stone to a more muted monochrome that leans toward a sleeker look. A bonus of using fewer and tighter grout joints is that it makes cleaning easier. The shower enclosure is typically frameless clear glass, though some prefer a frosted or rain glass look. The glass surround includes a glass door, sometimes on hinges, though Jim tells us the trend toward barn door style is becoming more popular.
Also popular, is the curbless entry, or zero, that eliminates both a tripping hazard and moves us closer to a universal design concept.
Cabinetry & Hardware
Cabinetry in the bath, including storage and the vanity, is trending along with the design of kitchen cabinets. Rich tells us that a painted Shaker-style cabinet is quite popular. These days, the color that is the most common is white.
Though the bathrooms and kitchen can utilize similar cabinet styles and counter materials, that doesn’t have to be the case. Regal’s in-house designers, we are told, often mix it up. Often times, a client wants to remodel just a bathroom or a kitchen.
Kitchen trends, as mentioned above, pair the painted cabinet with a shaker-style door quite often. Cabinet quality is very important. Jim commented that they carry several cabinet lines with consistent quality. The drawers should have dovetail-style side connections. Rich recommends a soft-close type of hardware for both doors and drawers.
As for hardware, matte black is challenged by a honey or champagne gold color which makes an elegant statement.
Countertops
The quartz top is trending more prominently than granite. Regal Bath & Kitchen co-owner, Jim Gilead, reminds us that quartz is easier to maintain than granite, which must be sealed every so often.
The honey and champagne gold hardware is nicely complemented by a light-colored quartz countertop. The consistency of color in the quartz is why most folks choose that combination, according to Rich.
Flooring
The trend in kitchen flooring is darker. Porcelain tile that mimics wood planking is quite popular and provides a pleasant contrast to the lighter cabinets and countertops.
Backsplash
Adding to the contrast is the backsplash area. Tile is the most common choice for this practical and decorative part of the kitchen. There are literally hundreds and hundreds of color and style choices. The plethora of color choices gives kitchens a unique “Wow!” factor.
Design Advice
We asked Jim and Rich for advice they have for homeowners who are considering remodeling their bathrooms or kitchen. Their advice is to select a contractor that is licensed by the Arizona Registrar of Contractors (ROC), bonded, and insured. Rich reinforces the Rosie on the House contractor selection process.
When looking at a kitchen and bath remodeling company, selecting a company that has in-house design services is a plus. Today, 3-D design capabilities are common. The drawings produced can really help you understand what your new project will look like. Additionally, if the company does most of the construction tasks in-house, that is an even bigger plus.
“We do a lot of the construction work with our own staff, including plumbing and electrical,” states Rich. “That allows us to keep on schedule, and that is important to people.”
That isn’t all though, read the reviews on a potential company’s website. The number and character of the reviews posted will tell you, the consumer, something about the company’s culture. That is the key to selecting a company that will be strong when delivering your project.
###
CONTENT PARTNER | Regal Bath & Kitchens
Regal Bath & Kitchens is a locally owned company providing Phoenix area residents with the most comprehensive and affordable kitchen and bathroom remodeling services. With over 30 years of experience, they aim to be the number one trusted contractor for local homeowners. From the standard shower remodel to multi-room projects, Regal is ready to transform your home!
PODCAST
Jim Gildea and Rich Allen of Regal Bath & Kitchens discuss what’s trending in bath and kitchen remodeling. From cabinets, backsplashes and counters to showers and universal designs, they explain the remodeling process that can lead to good looks and added value.
Podcast Archive With Expanded Content and Resources
PHOTO CREDIT
- Shutterstock
