What Design Trends Are on Their Way Out in 2024? Find Out Before You Renovate!

While it's easy to get caught up in the latest styles, bathroom design trends can change in the blink of an eye. Whether you’re planning a complete renovation or just a few updates, it’s important to know which trends are on their way out—before investing in permanent choices like tiles and finishes. Today, we’re taking a look at eight bathroom design trends that are fading fast, so you can avoid a renovation that feels outdated before you’ve even finished.

1. All-White Bathrooms

While all-white bathrooms may have been the epitome of modern design, monochromatic color schemes tend to feel cold and uninspired—which is precisely why all-white everything is on its way out. So, what will replace this sterile design trend? Warm, colorful spaces. Think soft pastels, muted earth tones, or even bold hues like deep blue or forest green. No matter which hues resonate with you, incorporating color into your space will make it feel more inviting and personal—and that’s always in style.

2. Open Shelving

Just like in kitchens, open shelving is becoming less popular in bathrooms too. Why? People are discovering that while open shelving is great for showcasing decorative items, they quickly become cluttered and messy when used to store everyday items like toothbrushes and face wash. So, if you’re planning a renovation, stick to closed storage options like cabinets, drawers, and other hidden storage solutions. By keeping your products neatly stored out of sight, your bathroom will look more organized and spacious.

3. Overly Themed Décor

Themed bathrooms—like those heavily inspired by the beach, farmhouse, or a specific era—are starting to feel a bit too forced. As we approach 2025, we’re embracing a more eclectic and personalized approach. So, instead of buying an entire collection of matching bathroom décor, layer in different styles, textures, and finishes to give your bathroom a more curated and timeless look.

4. Vessel Sinks

You’ve probably seen those bowl-like sinks perched on top of countertops—known as vessel sinks. Although they were once a popular trend, they often prove to be more impractical than they’re worth. Simple tasks like washing your face can lead to water splashing all over the vanity, resulting in extra cleanup. For a more practical and polished look, consider undermount sinks or integrated sink and countertop designs that keep water where it belongs and make your space easier to maintain.

5. Granite Countertops

While granite countertops have been a go-to in bathroom design for years, their days are numbered. Going forward, this heavy material is being replaced by more modern and versatile options like quartz, concrete, and even solid surface materials like Corian. Not only do most of these materials come in a wider range of colors and patterns, but they also tend to be more durable and easier to maintain than granite—making it a no-brainer in the game of bathroom design.

6. Freestanding Tubs

Freestanding tubs may seem luxurious, but they often sit unused, occupying space that could be put to better use. So, unless you’re a fan of daily soaks, consider reallocating that valuable bathroom real estate to something you’ll use more often, like a spacious walk-in shower.

7. Matchy-Matchy Fixtures

Gone are the days when all your bathroom fixtures had to match perfectly—mixing metals and finishes is now the way to go. While this design trend can feel intimidating at first, it’s easier to apply than you’d think. Not sure where to start? Try pairing brushed nickel with matte black or combining chrome with brass. Mixing different finishes adds visual interest to your bathroom design and creates a space that’s anything but cookie-cutter.

8. Traditional Tile Layouts

If there was ever a bathroom uniform, it would have to include subway tiles. They’ve been a bathroom staple for so long that they’re starting to feel a bit boring and predictable—especially when they’re installed in the typical brick pattern. So, if your heart is absolutely set on using it, try a different layout like herringbone, chevron, or even vertically stacked tiles to add a modern twist. Willing to break the norm? We love to hear it! In that case, the design world is your oyster. Play around with different shapes (like fishtail or hexagon), colors, and arrangements for a stylish, one-of-a-kind finish.

Keeping these trends in mind as you plot out your next renovation will help you create a space that feels current for years to come. But don’t forget, your bathroom should reflect your personal style too. So, before you start picking out fixtures and finishes, think about which trends you want to leave behind, and which ones you’ll be happy to see for years to come. Happy renovating!