Common bathroom design mistakes to avoid

Designing a new bathroom is an exciting project, but small planning mistakes can lead to problems later on. At Olney Bathrooms, careful design and experience help homeowners avoid common issues and create spaces that look great and work well for years to come.

One of the most frequent mistakes is not planning the layout properly. Bathrooms often have limited space, so the positioning of key items like the toilet, basin, and shower is crucial. Poor layout planning can make the room feel cramped or awkward to use. A well-designed layout ensures there is enough movement space and that doors, drawers, and screens can open comfortably.

Another common mistake is choosing style over practicality. While it’s important for a bathroom to look attractive, it also needs to suit everyday use. For example, open shelving may look great in a showroom but can quickly become cluttered in a busy household. Similarly, very dark colours or highly textured surfaces may require more maintenance than expected. A good design balances appearance with durability and ease of cleaning.

Insufficient storage is another issue many homeowners encounter. Bathrooms tend to collect everyday items such as toiletries, cleaning products, and towels. Without enough built-in storage, surfaces can become cluttered and the room can feel smaller. Vanity units, mirrored cabinets, and recessed shelving can all help keep the space organised.

Lighting is often overlooked during bathroom planning. Relying on a single ceiling light can leave the room feeling dull or create shadows around mirrors. Including layered lighting — such as mirror lighting, ceiling lights, and soft accent lighting — makes the space more functional and welcoming.

Another mistake is ignoring ventilation. Bathrooms naturally produce moisture, and without proper ventilation, this can lead to condensation, mould, and long-term damage to walls and furniture. Installing an effective extractor fan and choosing moisture-resistant materials can prevent these problems.

Budget planning is equally important. Focusing only on visible items like tiles and furniture without considering installation, plumbing adjustments, or preparation work can lead to unexpected costs. A clear plan from the beginning helps keep the project on track.

At Olney Bathrooms, the design process focuses on avoiding these common mistakes while creating bathrooms that are both stylish and practical. With the right guidance and planning, homeowners can feel confident that their new bathroom will not only look beautiful but also function perfectly for everyday life.

For more information on our Bathroom Services in Olney call today : 01234 731790

Or view recent projects at our Facebook page! > https://www.facebook.com/people/Olney-Bathrooms/

Bathroom Trends 2026

Bathroom design in 2026 is all about creating spaces that feel calm, practical, and personal. Homeowners are moving beyond purely functional bathrooms and instead treating them as places to relax and recharge. From natural materials to smart technology, this year’s trends focus on comfort, simplicity, and long-term style.

One of the biggest trends for 2026 is the continued rise of spa-inspired bathrooms. Soft, neutral colour palettes such as warm beige, stone grey, and off-white are becoming increasingly popular, helping to create a calm and timeless environment. Textured finishes, including fluted furniture, stone-effect tiles, and brushed brass fittings, add depth without overwhelming the space. Freestanding baths and walk-in showers remain key features for homeowners wanting a more luxurious feel.

Natural materials and organic design are also influencing bathroom styles this year. Wood-effect finishes, marble-inspired surfaces, and matte ceramics are being used to bring warmth and character into modern bathrooms. Plants, soft lighting, and simple décor help complete the look, turning bathrooms into spaces that feel more connected to the rest of the home.

Another strong trend for 2026 is smart and practical storage. Floating vanity units, recessed shelving, and mirrored cabinets with integrated lighting are helping homeowners keep bathrooms clutter-free while maintaining a sleek appearance. Wall-hung furniture continues to be popular because it creates the illusion of more space and makes cleaning easier.

Statement tiles are also making an impact. While minimalist bathrooms remain popular, many homeowners are choosing to add personality through feature walls, patterned floors, or bold shower enclosures. Earthy tones such as terracotta, olive green, and deep blue are particularly on trend and work well alongside neutral backgrounds.

Technology is becoming more common in bathroom design too. Smart mirrors with LED lighting, digital showers, and energy-efficient fittings are increasingly requested by homeowners who want both convenience and sustainability. Water-saving toilets and taps are especially popular as people look for ways to reduce household running costs.

Overall, bathroom trends in 2026 focus on balancing style, comfort, and practicality. Rather than following short-term fashion, many homeowners are choosing designs that will look great for years to come while improving how they use the space every day. A well-designed bathroom is no longer just a necessity,  it’s an investment in both the home and everyday living.

For more information on our Bathroom Services in Olney call today : 01234 731790

Or view recent projects at our Facebook page! > https://www.facebook.com/people/Olney-Bathrooms/

Bathroom Trends for 2026: What’s Shaping the Future of Bathroom Design?

As we move into 2026, bathroom design is becoming more than just about looks, it’s about comfort, sustainability and creating a space that genuinely improves everyday life. At Onley Bathrooms, we’re already seeing clear trends emerge that are shaping how homeowners want their bathrooms to feel and function.

One of the biggest trends for 2026 is spa-style living. More people want their bathroom to feel like a place to relax, not just a functional room. Expect to see more rainfall showers, freestanding baths, warm lighting and calming colour palettes. Soft neutrals, earthy tones and natural textures such as stone and wood-effect finishes are becoming increasingly popular for creating a peaceful atmosphere.

Sustainability is also taking centre stage. Homeowners are choosing water-efficient toilets, low-flow showers and energy-saving lighting as standard rather than optional extras. Not only do these features help the environment, but they also reduce running costs, making eco-friendly bathrooms both responsible and practical.

Another major trend for 2026 is smart technology. From digital shower controls that remember your perfect temperature to LED mirrors with built-in lighting and demisters, technology is making bathrooms more convenient than ever. We’re also seeing growing demand for underfloor heating controlled by smart thermostats, adding comfort while improving energy efficiency.

Walk-in showers continue to dominate modern bathroom design. The classic bath is no longer essential in every home, with many homeowners opting for easy-access, low-profile showers instead. This trend is driven by both style and safety, making bathrooms more accessible for all ages without compromising on appearance.

Storage is getting smarter too. In 2026, clutter-free bathrooms are key. Floating vanity units, recessed shelving and mirrored cabinets help keep everything tidy while maintaining a clean, minimalist look. The result is a bathroom that feels bigger, calmer and easier to maintain.

Finally, personalisation is more important than ever. Homeowners want bathrooms that reflect their lifestyle,  whether that means luxury finishes, family-friendly layouts or mobility-focused designs. No two bathrooms should feel the same, and bespoke solutions are becoming the new standard.

At Olney Bathrooms, we stay ahead of the latest trends to help our customers create spaces that are stylish today and practical for years to come. If you’re planning a bathroom upgrade in 2026, now is the perfect time to start thinking about how these trends could shape your new space.

For more information on our Bathroom Services in Olney call today : 01234 731790

Or view recent projects at our Facebook page! > https://www.facebook.com/people/Olney-Bathrooms/

Why a Bathroom Renovation Is One of the Best Home Investments

A bathroom renovation is one of the smartest improvements you can make to your home. Not only does it enhance your daily comfort, but it can also significantly increase the value of your property. At Olney Bathrooms, we see first-hand how a well-designed bathroom can transform both a house and how people feel about their home.

Bathrooms are no longer just functional spaces. Today, homeowners want them to feel calm, modern and easy to maintain. Whether it’s upgrading old fittings, improving lighting, or redesigning the layout, even small changes can make a big difference. A fresh, contemporary bathroom can instantly make a home feel newer and more appealing,  especially if you’re thinking about selling in the future.

Another major benefit of renovating is improving efficiency. Older bathrooms often waste water and energy through outdated toilets, taps and shower systems. By upgrading to modern, water-efficient fittings, you can reduce your utility bills while also doing your bit for the environment. It’s a win for your wallet and for sustainability.

Safety and accessibility are also key reasons people choose to renovate. Slippery baths, poor lighting and awkward layouts can become real hazards over time. Converting a bath into a walk-in shower, installing grab rails or improving flooring can make a bathroom far safer and more comfortable for everyone in the household.

At Olney Bathrooms, we believe every renovation should reflect your lifestyle. Whether you want a luxury spa-style retreat or a simple, practical family bathroom, our team works closely with you to create a space that suits your needs and budget. From initial design through to installation, we focus on quality workmanship and stress-free service.

If your bathroom feels tired, impractical or outdated, now could be the perfect time to reimagine it. A bathroom renovation isn’t just an upgrade , it’s an investment in your home and your everyday comfort.

For more information on our Bathroom Services in Olney call today : 01234 731790

Or view recent projects at our Facebook page! > https://www.facebook.com/people/Olney-Bathrooms/

Happy New Year from all of us at Olney Bathrooms!

 As we welcome 2026, we’re excited to continue helping homeowners in Olney and beyond achieve their dream bathrooms. Whether you’re looking to transform a compact space into a functional and stylish retreat or create a luxurious spa-like sanctuary, our team is here to make your vision a reality.

This year, we’re committed to delivering tailored solutions, exceptional craftsmanship, and outstanding customer service to bring your bathroom dreams to life. Let’s make 2026 the year of beautiful bathrooms together!

For more information on our Bathroom Services in Olney call today : 01234 731790

Or view recent projects at our Facebook page! > https://www.facebook.com/people/Olney-Bathrooms/100063850350191/?ref=embed_page