1. Shapely tubs: From the claw foot and pedestal to the graceful boat-shaped bateau, curvaceous tubs are reconfiguring the look of the bathroom. Custom finishes include colored enamel and copper, as well as leather wraps.
2. Nickel fixtures: This sleek metal suits many types of fixtures, from faucets to sconces. Available in brushed-satin, matte, and pearl finishes, it matches a variety of settings, including marble and stainless steel.
3. Wall-mounted faucets: This trend is the ultimate in streamlined style. Wall- or mirror-mounted faucets appeal to the desire for clean design without complicated plumbing. Combine these faucets with an artisanal raised sink bowl (another hot trend) to up the style ante.
4. Shimmering effects: Designers are taking a shine to the array of decorative glass tiles and mosaics on the market and are using them either as an accent or to cover an entire wall. The tiles come in colored, clear, and iridescent finishes. New metallic and mother-of-pearl tiles are also adding modern sheen to the bath.
5. Mirrored surfaces: The glamour of the Art Deco era is seeing a revival with a flood of mirrored cabinets, furnishings, accessories, and even tub surrounds. Mirrored treatments elevate the bathroom from basic to bombshell.
6. Pharmacy cabinets: These freestanding cabinets are the perfect bathroom accompaniment. They store everything from toiletries to towels with retro flair.
7. Frameless glass showers: The new seamless glass showers with minimal framing complement any bathroom décor. The illusion of pure transparency makes a small bath seem larger.
8. Classic subway tiles: These vintage-style tiles, shaped like bricks and set in a staggered "running bond" fashion, are making a big comeback in kitchens and baths. Designers are opting for the black-and-white tiles for a crisp, clean look.
9. Old-world embellishments: After years of Zen-spa minimalism, elements of the old-world style look fresh again. Classic console sinks, European-style fixtures, and ornamental borders are returning with a vengeance.
10. High-tech bathing: Convert your shower experience from so-so to sybaritic with a steam generator and rain dome. Add even more luxury with an all-purpose shower stack that has multiple heads, body sprays, and adjustable settings. Bathing also borders on the decadent with whirlpool jets, deep soaking overflow tubs, and chroma-therapy color washes. Towel warmers and electric radiant-heat flooring will help to smooth the transition from hot to cold.