
Renovating your bathroom can enhance your daily living experience and add significant value to your home. According to a study conducted by House Method, a provider of housing information, a majority of homeowners have successfully increased the value of their homes through recent bathroom renovations. When it comes to recouping your investment, the bathroom is a key area to focus on.
Best Bathroom Upgrades
This article will explore the best bathroom upgrades based on current trends and homeowner preferences. From vanities to in-house systems and decor choices, we will highlight the most popular choices among homeowners looking to transform their bathrooms. Whether you’re planning a full remodel or looking to make targeted improvements, these insights will guide you towards creating a stylish and functional bathroom that adds value to your home.
Let’s dive into the top bathroom upgrades that homeowners are opting for, from vanity choices to in-house system upgrades, and the importance of fixtures, colors, and showers. We will also discuss the growing trend of incorporating plants into the bathroom and the increasing popularity of high-tech toilet features. By understanding these trends and preferences, you’ll be better equipped to make informed decisions and create a bathroom that meets your needs while adding value to your home.
- Vanities
More than seventy-five percent of those asked said they have updated their vanity cabinets as part of a bathroom remodel. Findings from the poll show that “homeowners are turning vanities into focal points as one of the few areas to offer a splash of color” in the lavatory. Seventy percent of respondents to a recent survey said they preferred exteriors painted in natural tones like wood or neutral tones like grey. Following engineered quartz’s 40% market share, the next most popular materials for vanity tops were quartzite (19%), marble (18%), and granite (16%). Shakers continue to be the most popular option in terms of doors, followed by flat doors and raised-panel doors. Bar pulls are the standard hardware for bathroom cabinet doors.
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Upgrades to in-house systems
More and more homeowners are opting to update the bathroom’s plumbing and electrical systems at the same time. The majority of homeowners (59%) reported upgrading to a newer ventilation system during bathroom renovations, while 14% reported switching to radiant heating and 9% reported installing a tankless water heater. In spite of the fact that “the increase in upgrades to home systems can add up to some of the highest costs,” the poll found that installing a new shower or bathtub was the most popular bathroom renovation of 2018.
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Varying the routine:

A recent survey found that nearly all homeowners who upgraded the decor of their bathrooms also updated the fixtures. The transitional style is years ahead of the modern and contemporary movements. Transitional furniture, for example, can accommodate both modern components, like glass shower door hardware, and more traditional pieces.
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White is the most popular color option.
White is the most popular color for bathroom fixtures including vanities, countertops, and walls. Shower enclosures and interiors are typically grey, although blue is becoming increasingly trendy. The study found that eleven percent of homeowners opted for blue walls in the shower area of their bathrooms. Homeowners who have remodeled their bathrooms typically go for neutral colors like white or gray for features like worktops and shower walls.
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There is a lot of respect for showers.
When renovating their bathrooms, most homeowners still prioritize installing a new shower. Increasing the size of the shower is the second most typical renovation for an existing bathroom. When deciding to remove a bathtub, the majority of homeowners will opt to install a larger shower (by at least 25%). Many homeowners who have had bathtubs removed replace them with showers.
The addition of plants is a popular way to bring the outdoors inside when renovating a bathroom. “the vast majority” of respondents to the study agreed that “it enhances the room’s aesthetics.” However, a smaller but still sizable percentage of people believe it creates a soothing atmosphere. “Practical benefits” like enhanced air quality, fewer odors, and increased bacteria resistance are frequently cited by homeowners currently undergoing renovations.
About 45% of American households now have a high-tech toilet in their home. The survey reveals a striking rise in demand for amenities including bidets, automatic cleaners, heated seats, and integrated night lights.
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Smart Technology Integration
Homeowners are increasingly incorporating smart technology into their bathrooms. This includes features such as voice-controlled lighting, smart mirrors with built-in displays, motion-sensor faucets, and smart shower systems that allow personalized water temperature and flow settings.
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Energy-Efficient Fixtures
With a growing emphasis on sustainability, energy-efficient fixtures are gaining popularity. Low-flow toilets, water-saving showerheads, and LED lighting fixtures help reduce water and electricity consumption and appeal to environmentally conscious buyers.
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Freestanding Bathtubs
While showers are a top priority for many homeowners, freestanding bathtubs are still highly desired. They add a touch of luxury and relaxation to the bathroom, creating a spa-like ambiance. Freestanding tubs come in various styles, such as clawfoot, pedestal, and modern designs, allowing homeowners to choose the one that best suits their aesthetic preferences.
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Statement Tiles
Unique and eye-catching tiles are becoming a focal point in bathroom design. Geometric patterns, colorful mosaic tiles, and large-format tiles with bold textures are popular choices for creating visual interest and adding personality to the space.
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Adequate Storage Solutions

Storage is essential in a functional bathroom. Homeowners are investing in built-in cabinets, floating shelves, and vanity organizers to maximize storage capacity and keep the bathroom organized. Customizable storage options tailored to specific needs, such as pull-out drawers and dividers for toiletries and cosmetics, are gaining popularity.
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Enhanced Lighting
Proper lighting can transform the atmosphere of a bathroom. Homeowners opt for a combination of task, ambient, and accent lighting to create a well-lit and inviting space. LED strip lights, backlit mirrors, and pendant lights are common choices for achieving both functionality and aesthetics.
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Accessibility Features
As homeowners plan for aging in place or accommodate family members with mobility challenges, incorporating accessibility features in the bathroom has become important. This includes installing grab bars, curbless showers, wider doorways, and adjustable-height fixtures to ensure safety and ease of use for everyone.
In conclusion, the majority of homeowners (71%) have increased their home’s value through renovations completed within the past year, according to a study conducted by House Method, a provider of information on housing. When looking to recoup their money, many homeowners focus on the value of their bathrooms.
Thank you for reading!