2016 Trend Report Part 1: Bathrooms

New year, new trends. This 2016, a new form of fashion and function takes over most homes as fresh design ideas are implemented, to suit modern lifestyles. In our first edition of Trend Report, we bring you the latest looks and ways how you can use their style to inspire. Ready to dive into a room re-design journey? Let's begin!

Part 1: Bathrooms

Bathrooms are among the most essential parts of the home, but most of the time, these are sorely underrated. Your bathroom doesn't have to look like it only serves one purpose. Take a page from modern bathrooms and recreate a chic, contemporary atmosphere that will make you love this part of your home.

Aluminium Allure

Instead of going for the usual tiles, why not try something brilliantly dramatic, like the metallic glamour of pressed metal aluminium? Aluminium offers a great escape from the norm, adding a large dose of drama in your bathroom. Thanks to its reflective properties, you can use it as a full-body mirror. Textured aluminium and other metallic varieties also add a strong, luxurious charm in your bathroom. When paired with rich textures like wood, the effect becomes more stunning.

This aluminium colour tone maximizes the beauty of metallic; white goods are set against a silvery panel for a great contrast. However, the glimmering lights showcase a side of fun. Dress down on decors; choose a limited palette as the reflection already creates a stunning spectrum of lights!

Adding a darker tone of pressed metal adds a warmth and relaxing theme to your metallic bathroom!

Designing tips

• Mix and match texture contrasts (smooth and rough) for that chic effect
• Go minimal and stick to a limited palette
• Glass is a perfect key accent to balance off the variety of textures

Eclectic Enigma

No, your bathroom doesn't have to remain one of the most boring places in your home. Go extravagant by going eclectic--this design makes use of rich, textured tiles, marble flooring and jeweled tones highlighted with over the top mirror and flush mount ceiling light. Create some drama by sticking to a monochromatic theme. In this case, light is in. Accentuate the modern art-deco inspired bathroom with white, silver or gold hardware, and a beautiful lighting object.

Should you choose to go light, the rules stay the same. Avoid overdecorating if your furniture is already imposing. Take heed from this fun dresser; hues are almost monochromatic. However, there’s an interesting feeling of whimsy despite its basic décor. Add a rug to bring out a sense of warmth and finish off the look with crystal styled light bulbs.

Designing tips

• If using rich colours as accents, create a basic canvass of either dark or light tones.
• Experiment with textures! Choose ones that complement the main motif
• Find a feature object: a chandelier, a lovely mirror, or a series of cabinets
• Don’t be afraid to show off your personal style for that eclectic bathroom

Cut & Clean Concrete

Today’s industrial bathroom is greatly inspired by the economic and efficient use of concrete slabs. Colours are dressed down to basic greys and blacks, intermixed with the neutral textures of wood and the smoothness of glass. In this particular design, one can enjoy a minimalist, industrial bathroom decorated with a monochromatic, matte finish. Rows of black pendant lights add to the non-conforming look of the dresser. It is clean, basic and straightforward; perfect for warehouse settings because it is easy to clean and maintain.

When it comes to bathrooms, always remember that less is more. Add a surprising hue, like bright orange or a fun lime, to break off the monochromatic look.

Designing tips

• Break off from symmetry! Despite the plain look, create a fresh look by re-imagining shapes with your furniture. Have fun with placements.
• You can make your own floating shelves, trays and cabinets for that raw, unpolished look, adding more character to the bathroom’s design.

Images via FSV Bathroom - Vintage Industrial Pinterest board.