After fitting hundreds of bathrooms across Dartford, Bexley, Greenwich and the surrounding areas, we've noticed clear patterns emerging in what homeowners want from their bathroom spaces in 2026. The days of the purely functional bathroom are well behind us — today's bathrooms are designed to be personal retreats that balance style, practicality, and sustainability.
Whether you're planning a complete renovation or looking to refresh your existing space, understanding these trends can help you make design choices that will stand the test of time. Here's what we're seeing on the ground this year.
1. Floating Vanities Take Centre Stage
Wall-hung vanity units have become one of the most requested features in our bathroom installations. The appeal is clear: they create a sense of spaciousness by revealing more floor area, make cleaning underneath a breeze, and can be installed at any height to suit the homeowner. Many clients are opting for under-vanity LED lighting strips that add a subtle ambient glow — particularly effective in smaller bathrooms where every visual trick helps the space feel larger.
Floating vanity with natural wood finish — one of our recent installations
2. Nature-Inspired Colour Palettes
The all-white bathroom isn't disappearing, but it's certainly being challenged. We're fitting more bathrooms in soft greens, warm taupes, and muted stone tones than ever before. These earthy colours create a calming atmosphere that transforms the bathroom from a clinical space into somewhere you actually want to spend time. Sage green has been particularly popular, often paired with natural wood vanity units and brass or gold fixtures for a sophisticated finish.
Warm wood tones paired with soft neutrals create a spa-like atmosphere
3. Walk-In Showers Over Traditional Baths
The shift from baths to walk-in showers continues to accelerate. Many homeowners — particularly those in family homes where the kids have grown up — are removing rarely-used bathtubs in favour of spacious walk-in enclosures. These typically feature frameless glass panels, rainfall shower heads, and built-in niches for toiletries. The result is a more open, spa-like feel that's also more practical for daily use. That said, we always advise keeping at least one bath in the house if you're thinking of selling, as it remains important for families with young children.
4. Black and Brass Fixtures
Chrome isn't going anywhere, but matte black and brushed brass fixtures have become serious contenders. Black shower screens with crittall-style frames, black taps, and black towel radiators create a striking contrast against light tiles. Brass and gold tones add warmth and a touch of luxury — we've fitted several bathrooms recently that combine both black framing with brass tap ware for a contemporary look that feels both modern and timeless.
Brass fixtures add warmth and luxury to modern bathroom designs
5. Sustainability and Water Efficiency
With water bills rising and environmental awareness growing, more clients are asking about water-saving options. Aerated taps, dual-flush toilets, and eco-mode shower heads are now standard requests rather than afterthoughts. These features don't compromise on performance — modern aerated taps feel just as powerful while using significantly less water. It's a practical choice that benefits both the environment and your utility bills.
Other Trends We're Seeing
Curved and Organic Shapes
Rounded mirrors, curved basins, and organically shaped baths are softening the traditionally angular bathroom. These shapes create visual interest and a more welcoming feel.
Statement Tiles
Bold patterned tiles, zellige textures, and coloured grouts are being used to create feature walls and shower areas. The "tile drenching" trend — running the same tile from floor to ceiling — creates a cohesive, impactful look.
Smart Technology Integration
Underfloor heating, motion-sensor lighting, and Bluetooth speakers are becoming more common. The key is subtle integration — technology that enhances the experience without dominating the space.
Microcement Finishes
This seamless, grout-free finish creates a modern, minimalist look and can be applied over existing tiles. It's particularly popular for creating spa-like wet rooms.
Our Advice: Trends vs. Timelessness
While it's tempting to embrace every trend, we always advise clients to think carefully about longevity. A bathroom renovation is a significant investment, and you'll want to enjoy it for years to come. Our recommendation is to keep the expensive, permanent elements — tiles, sanitaryware, and layout — relatively classic, then introduce trends through easily changeable items like mirrors, accessories, paint colours, and soft furnishings.
That said, some trends are really just good design principles finally becoming mainstream. Floating vanities, walk-in showers, and quality fixtures in black or brass aren't going anywhere — they've become modern classics in their own right.
Ready to Transform Your Bathroom?
Whether you want to embrace the latest trends or create a timeless classic, we'd love to help bring your vision to life.
Written by the team at GWS Plumbing & Bathrooms, based on our experience fitting bathrooms across Kent and South East London. For more bathroom inspiration, visit our gallery or get in touch to discuss your project.