I recently had a client reach out to me for advice on renovating her basement bathroom—a space mainly used by her teenage boys. Since she’s investing time and money into this bathroom remodel project, she also wants to create a spa-like atmosphere similar to what she sees on Instagram and decorating shows.
Her goals are to design a bathroom that is (1) practical for her kids, (2) welcoming for any guests, and (3) a space that enhances her home’s beauty and enjoyment.
She shared inspiration images with me of bathroom renovation ideas, many featuring trending tile styles, including small geometric patterned tiles, and matte black finishes. She’s eager to introduce some colour into the space, which is currently stuck in the beige and brown tones of the 80s.
However, her husband is more concerned with resale value and is wary of choosing finishes that might become outdated by the time they sell. He prefers to keep it simple and straightforward.
And so, the ongoing dilemma of balancing trendy and timeless arises once again—a decision I’m happy to weigh in on.
Timeless vs. Trendy: Striking the Perfect Balance
When it comes to bathroom renovations, finding the right balance between trendy and timeless can be tricky.
Here are some TIPS I shared with my client that you might find helpful too:
Focus on Timeless Base Elements
TILES:
Opt for enduring classics like white subway, hexagon or larger neutral tiles. Marble tiles (and countertops!) are another timeless choice, bringing a touch of sophistication and lasting beauty to the space.
VANITY:
Choose simple, shaker-style cabinetry in neutral colours. This type of vanity is versatile and can be easily refreshed with new hardware or a coat of paint over the years.
VANITY HARDWARE:
Select timeless, high-quality hardware in finishes like polished nickel, brushed nickel, chrome, or lacquered brass. These options are not only stylish but also durable, ensuring they will look great for years to come.
PAINT COLOURS:
Soft, neutral colours for the walls—such as light greys, whites, and beiges—create a serene atmosphere and act as a perfect canvas for any decor style you choose.
And for those looking to introduce a bit more colour while maintaining a timeless look, consider these soft, serene paint colours:
Palladian Blue (Benjamin Moore): This soft, soothing blue provides a serene backdrop and evokes a sense of calm and relaxation.
Sea Salt (Sherwin-Williams): A gentle greenish-blue that brings a refreshing touch to your bathroom without being overpowering.
Lavender Pizzazz (BeautiTone): A light lavender colour that adds a subtle hint of purple while maintaining a calm and serene atmosphere. It’s perfect for creating a spa-like retreat.
Repose Gray (Sherwin-Williams): A versatile warm grey that pairs well with various decor styles and offers a neutral backdrop with a touch of warmth.
Swiss Coffee (Benjamin Moore): A warm white that adds coziness to your bathroom and provides a clean, timeless look with a bit of warmth.
Balboa Mist (Benjamin Moore): A light, warm grey with subtle undertones that create a soft, inviting atmosphere, making it a versatile choice for a serene bathroom.
LIGHTING:
Choose simple designs in timeless finishes for your lighting fixtures. Wall sconces and vanity lights in polished nickel, chrome, or lacquered brass add both function and style, seamlessly blending with the other elements in your bathroom remodel.
PRO TIP: Putting all of your timeless foundation pieces all together in a mood board is a great way to ensure everything will match – especially when ordering pieces online. This is also a good opportunity to create multiple versions of your mood board, changing out and experimenting with different decor and accessories.
Incorporate Trendy Touches Sparingly
It’s so tempting to jump on a trend when you’re renovating—I get it! But take a moment to think about this space ten years from now. Will it still look as appealing?
Trends come and go, but your bathroom should be a space you love for years. That doesn’t mean you can’t have fun with trends when it comes to decorating and styling the space.
While this green bathroom is pretty and on-trend right now, there is a high chance that you will get sick of a design like this. To make it more timeless opt for a polished nickel or lacquered brass finish for the faucet and light fixture, chose complimentary neutral colour for the counter top, and then decorate with the warm green colour.
Consider incorporating trending colours and patterns through easily changeable items like towels, shower curtains, or area rugs. These elements can refresh the look without a significant financial commitment.
I always find a great source of inspiration for this to be Pottery Barn, where you’ll find attractive textiles in patterns and colours that will definitely keep your space looking up-to-date. Another excellent way to introduce trends is through wall decor or artwork. These pieces can add personality and style without requiring a long-term commitment.
By using these methods, you can keep your bathroom looking current and stylish, while the timeless base elements ensure it remains beautiful and functional for years to come.
Think Long-Term
Consider how your choices will look in a few years. Trends come and go, but classic designs endure. By focusing on timeless base elements and adding trendy touches through accessories and decor, you can keep your bathroom stylish and current without the worry of it becoming outdated too quickly.
My Top Picks for a Timeless Bathroom
1. Classic White Subway Tile: Versatile and enduringly stylish.
2. Shaker-Style Vanity: Simple, elegant, and adaptable.
3. Neutral Soft Paint Colours: White, off white, beige, soft greys, greens or blues for a serene backdrop.
4. Timeless Finishes: Chrome, brushed or polished nickel or lacquered brass finishes for a classic touch.
5. Quality Lighting: Wall sconces and vanity lights are like the jewellery of the bathroom so good quality ones are worth the investment.
6. Solid Surface Counters in Neutral Colours with Soft Patterns or Marble: Elegant and timeless, perfect for adding a luxurious touch.
7. Penny Tiles and Hexagon Tiles: Great for shower floors, adding texture and interest while staying timeless.
Embracing Timeless Design
As a certified True Colour Expert trained by Maria Killam, I wholeheartedly agree with her philosophy, “Boring now equals timeless later.”
Renovating and redecorating a space costs a lot of hard-earned money, so we want to love the space for years to come and avoid regrets from jumping on the latest trend.
Trends are fun and enticing, especially when we see them on Pinterest, Instagram, and in stores. However, it’s wise to use them sparingly and strategically on decor or items that can be replaced economically.
So if you’re currently working on a renovation or new build and want to ensure you’re making timeless decisions, I’m here to help! Feel free to reach out to me or consider purchasing one of my decorating packages.
Let’s create a space you’ll love for years to come, just like I’m sharing with my community through my new home build project.
Happy decorating!
