Designers say our 'dream bathrooms' in 2022 will all include this emerging trend
Neutral materials and freestanding tubs are set to give our bathrooms a spa-like feel in the year ahead

As we sit on the fringe of a new year, thoughts may inevitably turn to the trends that will make headlines in the future design world. However, when it comes to bathrooms, we now have a very good idea what our dream bathroom will look like.
This comes after a recent study that revealed the top interior design trends that are set to take over our bathrooms in the upcoming seasons. Armed with a combination of search data and designer expertise, Houzz predicted a rise in spa-like spaces that appear clean, not clinical – with a primary focus on wellbeing.
The design platform also shared that their exerts are increasingly tasked with a ‘hotel-worthy’ bathroom brief after searches for this aesthetic rose by up by 435% in 2021. Hotel-esque features include muted color palettes, natural materials, and ornate touches that give the space a boutique ambiance.
But what exactly do these modern bathroom ideas involve?
According to Houzz, the key to this hotel-inspired space is the demand for underfloor heating (up by 415% in searches) and luxe baths (‘freestanding bath’ and ‘slipper bath,’ up by 154% and 152% in searches, respectively). The site also saw a rise in the desire for layered and adjustable lighting that will give your bathroom a hotel-style allure.
Similarly, tadelakt – a lime-based plaster indigenous to Morocco – is also emerging as one of the biggest modern bathroom trends of the moment. This is because of its waterproof nature and clean aesthetic that escapist aesthetic that further emphasizes the spa-like aura.
Houzz is not exclusive in their observation of this spa-like movement. BC Designs also saw a demand for bathrooms with a spa-like feel that ‘take inspiration from five-star hotels.’
‘It isn’t just about the fixed bathroom products that achieve this, but the little luxurious as well; the highest grade cotton towels, opulent selection of bath oils and shower gel, along with those all-important candles,’ they explain.
The experts add that large, freestanding tubs are amongst the most effective ways of bringing the spa-like feel into your home. When recreating luxury bathroom ideas for smaller spaces (where a tub might not be an option) they recommend investing in a double shower head – for an elevated shower experience.
May 2022 be the most stylish and therapeutic yet.
Megan is a News Writer across Future Plc’s homes titles, including Livingetc and Homes & Gardens. As a News Writer, she often focuses on micro-trends, wellbeing, celebrity-focused pieces, and everything IKEA.
Before joining Future, Megan worked as a News Explainer at The Telegraph, following her MA in International Journalism at the University of Leeds. During her BA in English Literature and Creative Writing, she gained writing experience in the US while studying in New York. Megan also focused on travel writing during her time living in Paris, where she produced content for a French travel site. She currently lives in London with her antique typewriter and expansive collection of houseplants.
-
-
These are the best bed sheets to buy right now to freshen up your bedroom for summer – according to a shopping editor
Beautiful bed sheets to create the perfect bedroom, from silk to cotton, and where to buy them
By Oonagh Turner • Published
-
What is AirPlay? How to use the mirroring technology, whether you're an iPhone user or not
Is AirPlay the best way to switch from your phone to the TV or wireless speaker? We take a look.
By Caroline Preece • Published