Modern design can mean different things to different people, but in general terms, when we think of modern bathroom styles we picture sleek tiling, simple elements, and a neutral or basic colour scheme.

If you are looking for inspiration as you embark on your bathroom renovation, you have come to the right place: below are 5 new modern bathroom style ideas to get your creative juices flowing. 

Modern bathroom idea 1: Elegant simplicity 

A lot of the time, less is more, and this is especially true when it comes to creating a sleek and modern bathroom.  

If your goal is to create a minimalist look, you should stick to the basics: choose a simple colour scheme (warm neutrals or chic dark tones), large tiles, and wood or stone elements.

It can be tempting to want to incorporate all the latest on-trend products, but remember to stay true to your vision and keep it simple. It might be hard to resist temptation, but remember: what looks great in one bathroom could change the feel and flow of your minimalist design.

Combining just a few simple elements that work well together can make your design functional and uncluttered. The result is a bathroom that makes an impact without trying too hard. 

And remember: simple doesn’t mean totally colourless. You can add a touch of colour to your bathroom by using accessories smartly. Towels, floor mats, candles, and even fresh flowers can add the final touches to your minimalist masterpiece. 

Modern bathroom idea 2: Make a statement with tiling

Modern bathroom styles don’t need to be boring. Using tiles the right way can help you create a fun and sleek design. Tiling has the power to transform a plain bathroom into a stand-out. 

There are numerous tile choices for flooring and walls, and choosing the right style is a key step to a successful modern bathroom renovation.

Ceramic and porcelain tiles provide endless decor possibilities. You can mix and match patterns and colours for maximum visual impact. Having a feature wall or floor can take your bathroom design to the next level. 

Modern bathroom ideas: tile styles to consider

Subway 

The trusty subway tile has made a comeback in recent years and can be seen as a star element in many bathroom renovations in Sydney.

Some might say that the style has been overdone and subway tiling has reached saturation point. We think that you can still use subway tiles to create a modern bathroom design. There is a reason why this style has proven so popular – it looks great and it won’t break the bank. 

If you want to give the subway tile look a go but want something a bit more original, you can find a way to spin the traditional look. For example, you can flip the tile on its end use for a more relaxed look or use subway tiles to add colour to your bathroom: think deep green or turquoise for a fresh and modern feel.

Patterned

Tiles come in a huge range of patterns and designs. Used right, patterned tiles can bring the “wow” factor into a bathroom. You can try Spanish or Moroccan tiles for a more exotic feel, or a contrasting black and white design for a sleek and striking look. 

Mosaic

Mosaic tiles come as sheets of small, square, glass tiles. When combined together, they create a stunning modern look. Mosaic tiles are ideal to use in feature walls and bring glam and texture into your bathroom. 

Geometric

Geometrical shapes can be used to create shapes and patterns and bring some flavour into your bathroom. The most common style is the honeycomb effect created by using hexagonal tiles, but there are endless ways you can use these types of tiles. 

Using a geometric tile that is the same colour as your main tile is a proven way to add some depth to your design.  You can combine tiles in different sizes, tones, and patterns and create a feature wall. 

There are no rules when it comes to mixing and matching tiles to create a feature wall – have a play and see what works for you and your bathroom. 

But remember, no matter what style you choose to go for, you should always take a tile sample home before you buy. Spend some time looking at the tile in your home, as the colour and look of a tile can change in different spaces depending on factors such as lighting and surrounding elements.

Modern bathroom idea 3: open-plan goodness

A crowd-favorite when it comes to modern bathroom styles is the open-plan design, normally incorporating walk-in showers with glass panels and minimal accessories. 

This style has been seen in numerous home renovation shows and has become increasingly popular. 

Choosing glass panels around your shower creates a sleek and clean design which is ideally complemented by ‘Floating’ or Wall-hung Basins.

Wall-hung basins are light and free space in the bathroom to help nail the open-plan look. They’re also quite economical and according to the experts, floating bathroom vanities are very popular and are here to stay.

If your shower room and toilet room are separated by a wall, consider knocking it down to create one large open plan room.  A word of advice though: don’t do any major structural changes without talking to the experts first. Talk to renovation builders in Sydney before you get hold of the sledgehammer. 

Modern bathroom idea 4: bathtub as the focal point

Bathtubs fell out of fashion in bathrooms for a few decades, but now they are back with full strength. 

Nowadays, bathtubs are not the rigid clawfoot bathtubs of previous years or the boring drop-in tubs hidden behind plastic curtains of the 80s and 90s. Designers have brought bathtubs to the future, creating contemporary styles that fit right in with modern bathrooms.

These days it is common to make your tub the focal element of the room. You can choose a stunning standalone bathtub and design your bathroom around it. 

You can even consider splurging in a spa bath so you can relax and unwind after a long day at work. Combined with the right elements, you can transform your bathroom into a heaven of luxury and relaxation. 

Modern bathroom idea 5: modern detailing

You don’t need to do a whole bathroom overhaul to bring your bathroom up to date. Changing some of the accessories and hardware can make a big impact. 

For example, changing old fashioned tapware to modern golden, chrome or black items can give your bathroom a refreshed look.

A modern and powerful showerhead can change the way you feel about your bathroom, and updating accessories such as vanities and storage cabinets can give your bathroom an instant facelift.

You can also try updating outdated mirrors and turning them into a focal point of your decor. Mirrors reflect light and can create the impression of a larger space, especially those larger in size. They also add decorative flair and elegance to the room.

If you want to splurge in one item, you can choose a designer toilet that nowadays comes in a variety of shapes, heights, and with a surprising range of added features.  

I am renovating my bathroom: how can I save some money? 

Many variables come into play when calculating a bathroom renovation cost, but you can expect to pay between $15,000 and $25,000 for a standard-sized bathroom renovation in Sydney.

If you’re a handy person, you can do some simple DIY updates yourself to save some dollars. These can include small changes such as replacing handles and doorknobs and installing mirrors, towel racks, and tapware. However, you must keep in mind that you are not legally permitted to do tiling or install electrical connections yourself.

Here are some money-saving tips:

1. Buy second hand or sale items.

Have a look online or visit second-hand stores for pre-loved items or surplus building material.

Keep an eye out for the products you want and wait for end-of-season sales. 

2. Choose the right tiles

Tiles can make or break a bathroom, but mosaic or tiles to be installed in complicated patterns will add to the bill. Subway tiles and large tiles will be easier to install and help bring the bill down.

3. Tackle the paintwork yourself

You can save a lot of money by limiting the area you tile and paint the rest of the walls. 

You can even paint the bathroom yourself. You will be surprised to see what a fresh coat of white paint can do to a room. 

4. Don’t move your plumbing

You will need to hire plumbers for moving or installing fittings such as bathtubs, showers, and toilets. Consider carefully whether you really need to move these items or they can be replaced in the existing position. 

In summary

Are you renovating your bathroom and looking for some modern bathroom design ideas? Here are our top five to get you inspired:

Idea 1: Elegant simplicity: create a sleek bathroom by sticking to a simple colour scheme. Select a few but effective items to create a striking minimalist look

Idea 2: Statement tiling: use tiles to bring some personality to your bathroom design. There are endless designs out there. Add a feature wall and take your bathroom to the next level.

Idea 3: open-plan goodness: master the art of open plan by adding a walk-in shower with glass panels and floating vanities.  If your shower room and toilet room are separated by a wall, know it down!

Idea 4: bathtub as the focal point: everyone loves an elegant standalone bathtub, you can design your whole bathroom around it. Chose the tub you love and add elements that complement it.

Idea 5: modern detailing: ensure that all the elements in your bathroom work together to create a modern feel – from the hardware to the showerhead, each item adds value.