Best Bathroom Ideas & Design Trends for 2019: Learn Timeless Tricks from Top U.S. Designers — 30 Seconds to Master Spa Vibes

When Sheila, one of my longtime clients, called me in December 2018, her request was straightforward: "David, I want my bathroom to feel fresh and on-trend next year, but I need it to function for my hectic mornings and cozy evenings." This scenario is familiar to many homeowners, and it's why I always start by exploring the big design shifts and smart details before breaking ground. If you’re seeking creative inspiration, innovative use of storage, or that wow factor for your 2019 bathroom makeover, you’ll want to explore layout options for a compact ensuite early in the planning phase.

Modern Neutrals: The 2019 Palette

One unmistakable trend was the rise of warm neutrals over cold grays. Clients moved toward creamy taupe, pale sand, or even blush-toned tiles—a palette that feels inviting during chilly winter mornings and wonderfully sunlit in summer. To enhance this, I found tactile finishes like matte ceramic or textured large-format tiles created depth and interest without visual clutter.

Lighting became central to ambience. In a recent project in Seattle, we combined subtle wall sconces with layered mirror LEDs, introducing softness while eliminating harsh shadows during morning routines.

Storage Solutions: Smarter, Not Larger

2019 was about making the most of modest spaces. Open shelving in weathered oak or walnut replaced bulky cabinets, allowing clients to display rolled towels and spa accessories. In one New York apartment remodel, we added floating vanities and recessed medicine cabinets with hidden charging ports. The result? More surface area and zero cord mess.

If you’re wrestling with space, try integrating vertical niches into shower walls. They blend sleek design with genuine functionality—no more fumbling for shampoo bottles or soap. For further inspiration, I recommend using a bathroom design tool to visualize clever storage placements before installation.

Bath vs Shower: The 2019 Debate

Here’s a common myth: "Small bathrooms can’t support both a soaking tub and a walk-in shower." Over my career, I’ve debunked this in multiple projects. The key lies in strategic layout—corner tubs, extra-clear glass screens, and partition walls just wide enough to keep the water in, but slim enough not to overwhelm. In a Los Angeles townhouse reno, adding a Japanese-style sitting tub plus a rain shower revitalized the space and created a genuine home spa atmosphere.

Sustainability took center stage as well. Clients wanted low-flow fixtures, repurposed wood vanities, and recycled glass mosaics. Not only did these choices reduce environmental impact, they also introduced color and texture you simply can't reproduce with synthetic materials.

Personal Touches: Expressive Accessories

One of my favorite projects last spring incorporated bold botanical wallpaper and hand-glazed floor tiles. The owner, Melissa, wanted her bathroom to feel spirited yet soothing. We achieved this by grounding vibrant accents with organic shapes—circular mirrors and rounded basins—and by sticking to her beloved green-and-white color scheme.

Layering textiles is another trick I recommend. A mix of plush bath rugs, woven baskets, and linen shower curtains softens any modern minimalist aesthetic, making your bathroom truly welcoming.

Case Study: Compact Luxury in Boston

The Taylor family in Boston faced the classic urban challenge: their main bathroom measured just 55 square feet, but they longed for a spa-like retreat. Our approach paired light-reflecting mosaic tiles with an industrial black-framed shower enclosure. Space-saving strategies included a floating double-sink vanity and tall built-in shelving. By the end, the room felt twice its original size and invited relaxation morning, noon, and night.

FAQ

Q: What bathroom color ideas were most popular in 2019?

A: Warm neutrals like taupe, sand, and blush replaced cool grays for a cozy, modern feel. Textured finishes added extra dimension.

Q: How do you add storage to a small bathroom design?

A: Vertical niches, open shelving, and floating vanities are effective solutions. Plan with high-efficiency options using interactive layout platforms.

Q: Can you combine a bathtub and walk-in shower in a small space?

A: Yes. Strategic layouts, such as corner installations and slimmer partitions, make it possible without crowding the bathroom.

Q: What sustainable bathroom trends emerged in 2019?

A: Low-water fixtures, reclaimed materials, and recycled glass tiles were increasingly sought after for both style and eco-friendliness.

Which trends would you like to see in your next renovation—organic colors, smarter storage, or spa elements? I’d love to hear which features you find timeless or wish were coming back. For easy planning, try looking into ways to experiment with bathroom storage configurations online and see your dream layout come together.