Once viewed as a purely utilitarian area of the home, bathroom design today is all about creating spaces that are just as beautiful as they are functional. However, bathroom renovations, like kitchen renovations, are time-consuming and expensive, meaning most people are probably stuck with bathrooms with at least a couple of outdated features and fixtures.
Are you ready to bring your bathroom into the modern era? Here are seven features that are making your bathroom look dated, according to designers.
Meet the Expert
- Chad Harmer is the co-founder of Modern Organic Design and the founder of The Harmer Group, a leading real estate team specializing in buying, selling, and staging homes.
- Ruben Gutierrez is the founder and principal designer of Errez Design, an interior design firm based in Miami, Florida.
Colorful Plumbing Fixtures
Colorful toilets, sinks, and bathtubs have enjoyed a revival over the past couple of years, but designers generally agree that this trend can make a bathroom look and feel outdated. Especially if the fixtures themselves are old or there are other outdated features in the bathroom that need upgrading.
Fixtures that are neutral, white, or even matte black are a safer, more timeless option that feel both modern and flexible, says Chad Harmer, co-founder of Modern Organic Design.
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Hollywood-Style Round Vanity Light Fixtures
Another feature that can make any bathroom feel instantly outdated is the classic Hollywood-style vanity light fixture. You know, the ones with large, round, exposed bulbs in a horizontal row? These fixtures scream builder-grade, mid-20th-century design, and the exposed bulbs lend a harsh, fluorescent feel to the space.
“You can get rid of these harsh lights and replace them with softer wall sconces or LED lighted mirrors that give off a modern, glowing look,” Harmer says.
Carpet
This almost goes without saying but we’re going to say it anyway—carpet doesn’t belong in the bathroom. Period. Not only does this blast from the past feel instantly outdated, but it’s not functional or sanitary either, Harmer says. Tile or laminate are far more practical and modern choices.
Oversized Jacuzzi Tubs
An oversized jacuzzi tub is another rarely practical feature that can make your space look outdated. While it sounds nice in theory, these large tubs are major eyesores that usually don’t get used often.
If a spa-like feel is what you’re after, Harmer recommends choosing a freestanding soaker tub instead of a large jacuzzi tub. Not only does it look sleeker and more expensive, but it also takes up less space.
Popcorn Ceilings
Popcorn ceilings are a sign of times past in any room, and the bathroom is no exception, says Harmer. Popular in the 1960s and ‘70s, these textured ceilings are often found in houses that were built or renovated during that period.
While removing popcorn ceilings can be time-consuming and messy, it isn’t that difficult. Before attempting removal, you should always test for asbestos since some popcorn ceilings installed between the 1950s and 1980s are known to contain some levels of it.
Covering popcorn ceilings without removal is also an option.
Plastic Tub and Shower Combos
The classic plastic tub-and-shower combo is usually one of the first things to go during a bathroom renovation, with good reason.
“Plastic tub-and-shower combos are a one-size-fits-all relic of the builder-grade era,” says Ruben Gutierrez, founder and principal designer of Errez Design. “It’s the bathroom equivalent of fast food: functional, but utterly lacking in thought or soul.”
As a result, they can make a bathroom feel tired and outdated. Instead, breathe some life and personalization into your space with something more modern, such as a walk-in shower, freestanding shower-tub combo, or sleek built-in shower-tub combo.
Gray Imitation Wood Flooring
Lastly, Gutierrez says that gray, imitation wood flooring should be avoided in bathrooms. Once prized for being sleek, modern, and neutral, today gray “wood” flooring feels cold, artificial, and impersonal.
“It had its moment—a long, overstayed moment—but now it reads as tired and soulless,” he says.
Instead, choose flooring in colors with warm undertones. If you choose wood (or laminate), stick to natural tones for an authentic look and feel.
