Minimalism, matte black, metals and mesh with pops of colour are expected to be some of the foremost bathroom design trends this year, according to Andy Grigor, head of design and innovation at Methven.
“Industrial aesthetics have made their way into the bathroom from other areas of the house in a fun way, with simple shapes and matte surfaces, taking centre stage,” he says.
Here are five bathroom design trends that will contribute to the industrial look in 2019, according to Grigor.
CONCRETE
Concrete, whether it’s porous and unrefined or smooth and sanded, is growing in popularity with a strong nod to the use of urban industrial materials.
Pictured: Methven's Maku Satinjet Rail Shower. Image: Supplied
“We are seeing with increasing popularity concrete being used for floors and walls and even whole basins,” says Grigor.
“It’s also a great material for built-in shelving and hollowed out niches to hold towels and other accessories.”
Pictured: Methven's Waipori Basin Mixer. Image: Supplied
NATURAL MATERIALS
Natural materials such as wood, work to balance and create softness, and perfectly complement the industrial theme.
“The use of reclaimed wood gives a great rustic and worn-in charm while creating warmth and softness in juxtaposition with the colder industrial materials such as metal and concrete,” says Grigor.
“The wood being used is also becoming rougher and less refined celebrating its imperfections, so reclaimed wood is a great choice and a way to incorporate recycled materials into your bathroom and house.”
Wood can also be incorporated as a panel wall or with the use of storage boxes like crates and other accessories such as stools.
BLACK ACCENTS
“While bathroom design is calling on industrial influences, there is a softer approach to the concept in bathrooms with the use of more modern materials such as matte black finishes,” says Grigor.
“Matte black tapware is very popular due to its ability to pair so well with other current design and style trends. For example, the use of natural materials like timber and stone in bathrooms has also been growing, and black tapware and accessories complement these beautifully. This has been the main driver for Methven to now offer our popular and award-winning halo-shaped Aio twin shower in matte black.”
EYE-CATCHING METALS
Image: Methven
With reference to the urban city and industrial work spaces, the use of metals remains strong in bathrooms, with warmer tones such as copper, gold and bronze being utilised as eye-catching features.
“These metals can be used through tapware to even hairdryer holders, and suggest a touch of luxury against the industrial theme. For bathroom accessories you can use antique-like cake moulds as containers or metal tins combined with mesh and raw string to get that rough, yet repurposed look.”
POPS OF COLOUR
Another trend that’s continuing into 2019 is the mid-century Miami look, with a focus on soft colours and dusty pastels such as mint and powder pink.
“Classic 1950s patterns are also popular on tiles and textiles, as well as mid-century curves making a comeback. Pale wood can also beautifully complement the mid-century Miami colours,” says Grigor.
