The concepts of quiet luxury and wellness-centric bathrooms have emerged as just some of the five pivotal trends identified by 14 industry experts, expected to influence bathroom renovations in 2026.
Sanctuary Bathrooms has collated these insights as part of its in-depth 2026 bathroom trends analysis. The report also highlights the importance of nature-inspired materials, earthy colours, and large showers taking precedence over baths, as other key trends shaping the future of bathroom design including colours, styles, trends, pop culture influences, as well as an eye on sustainability, eco-friendliness, and consumer expectations. Here are the five key trends identified.
1. Quiet luxury
Also known as ‘stealth wealth’, quiet luxury originated in the fashion industry and has transcended into the world of bathroom design. It represents understated affluence, where consumers seek high-quality fixtures that last without resorting to exuberant brands. This approach extends across every category of bathroom design, from wall panels and flooring to fixtures and accessories.
James Roberts, director of Sanctuary Bathrooms, states that quiet luxury will “transition into bathroom spaces in the same way [as fashion] – people will look for luxurious designs without the branding”.
2. Wellness bathrooms
The bathroom is no longer just functional – it’s a holistic retreat. Driven by social media trends celebrating self-care and mental health, bathroom renovators are now prioritising features that support relaxation, rejuvenation and routine.
In 2026, to name just a few fixtures, expect to see:
- Lighting systems that help reduce circadian rhythm disruption for better sleep.
- Sunshowers that deliver infrared or low-dose UV light to stimulate vitamin D levels whilst showering.
- The rise of shower toilets, or smart bidets, in homes as interest grows in their comfort and hygiene technology.
Alongside fixtures, biophilic design is used in tandem, bringing natural greenery inside that not only enriches experiences but also reinforces a message of sustainability. This can include wood elements, stone tiles, and plants.
MERLYN’s marketing director, Eileen Slattery, states: “Personalised wellness will become mainstream with a calm luxury and uncluttered feel in increasingly bigger bathrooms. Beautiful, relaxing showering spaces are seen as essential investments in everyday wellbeing.”
3. Nature-inspired materials
In 2026, homeowners are choosing natural or faux-effect materials – such as stone, brick, and wood elements – often paired with metallic accessories. These are also materials designed to last and be easily recycled, in line with circular-economy principles to keep products in use for longer.
JTP’s CEO, Jeevan Seth, explains that this approach is being reinforced by Scandi-style living trends, where it combines “natural materials with clean, sleek silhouettes and light-filled simplicity, creating a tranquil, effortlessly modern bathroom”.
4. Earthly colours
Leading the race for the all-important colour predictions in 2026 are those that prioritise the warmer tones of the Mediterranean and North Africa, further enhanced by carefully selected, sustainable materials.
Trending colours of 2026 include:
- Burnt orange
- Forest greens
- Neutrals like sand, almond, and clay
Andrea Denison, marketing Co-ordinator from Barwick Bathrooms, believes that such colours “bring comfort and tranquillity to the bathroom”, as well as “adding warmth, comfort, and making the bathroom a restful place where consumers can relax after a long, hard-working day”.
5. Large showering spaces replace baths
It also looks like 2026 could be the year that large showering spaces replace bathtubs as the market standard. Driven by practical considerations, future-proofing, and the aforementioned wellness trend, homeowners are choosing walk-in showers and versatile wetrooms more than ever before.
Helen Ray-Dennett, head of marketing at Tissino, explains that they have seen a surge in demand for larger shower trays. She says: “Trays measuring 1.8m+ have been more popular than ever as people opt for showers over baths and more generous showering areas.”
Key consumer focuses and sustainability in 2026
Experts were also asked about their thoughts on the key consumer focuses for 2026, based on economic circumstances and trends, and whether sustainability will remain important in 2026. The consensus was that consumers would be focusing on getting value for money and longevity.
RAK Ceramics’ Alvin Biggs states: “Taking a more considered, sustainable approach to design means investing in quality fixtures that are built to last and also ensure that the renovation has a positive impact on the overall resale value of the property.”
Meanwhile, manufacturers are continuing to adapt materials and processes that minimise their environmental impact while also benefiting customers.
Bathroom Brands’ Group head of design, Jorge Hernandez, explains that “sustainable bathroom design will continue to be a key consideration, but the industry is still balancing sustainability with perceived value”. He adds: “As a result, the focus will remain on integrating sustainability as a seamless feature or unique selling point, delivering eco-friendly solutions without adding extra cost to the consumer.”
James concludes: “These trends reflect a fundamental shift in how homeowners and, in turn, manufacturers, approach bathroom design. We’re seeing a move away from trend-chasing and towards thoughtful investment in spaces that genuinely improve quality of life whilst standing the test of time. Our research with leading industry experts has revealed something encouraging: the bathroom is no longer just a functional room, but a genuine investment in wellbeing and home value.”
You can read the full 2026 bathroom trends analysis here.
All imagery supplied by Sanctuary Bathrooms
