ShareHomeowners are transforming their bathrooms into wellness retreats. They’re favoring features like optional lighting, smart technology, natural colors and low-maintenance materials, according to the 2025 Bath Trends Report, produced by the National Kitchen & Bath Association.
“The bathroom is evolving into a sanctuary of relaxation and rejuvenation, as the demand for spa-inspired features continues to grow in response to the stresses of modern life,” says Bill Darcy, global president and CEO of NKBA.
NKBA dubs it the “Re-Room”—a wellness retreat where homeowners can renew, re-center and reinvigorate.
Ninety percent of designers surveyed by NKBA believe the primary bath will increasingly be viewed as a “personal sanctuary” within the home; about 60% predict “relaxed/retreat-like” themes and spa-like environments to dominate. Surveyed designers and remodeling contract professionals say, over the next three years, “wellness-focused design” will largely be the focus in updating bathroom spaces. You can expect such features to resonate with home buyers, too.
Here are some ways wellness is being incorporated into the design:
1. Spa-Like Features
Homeowners want the luxury of hotels and resorts. Seventy-nine percent of designers and contract professionals surveyed by NKBA cite health and wellness as key drivers in bathroom design.
- Therapeutic showers: 72% say homeowners are using showers for rehabilitation with features such as steam, chromotherapy and aromatherapy.
- Soaking tubs: 70% see an increased demand for tubs that support physical recovery.
2. Lighting It Up
Lights aren’t just functional. They’re a critical component of bathroom design, impacting overall health and mood. Among survey respondents, 55% agree that lighting aimed at supporting well-being is a top goal. Besides updating lighting fixtures, updates might include skylights, large windows and glass doors to maximize natural light.
3. Bigger, Better Spaces
Homeowners are carving out more space where they can. For example, 53% of designers report removing bathtubs to accommodate larger showers. Forty-two percent are fielding more requests to knock down walls to open up the space. Dual features also are gaining traction, such as:
- Double vanities: 61%
- Large showers for two: 59%
- Dual shower heads: 67%
4. Organic Materials, Softer Color Palettes
Bathroom design is being infused with nature. Look for wood grains and natural textures on floors and walls. Soft greens, rich browns and warm neutrals—reminiscent of the 1970s—are making a comeback. Still white remains dominant.
NKBA designers surveyed say the top five colors to trend in bathroom spaces for 2025 are:
- White
- Green
- Blue
- Gray
- Brown
5. Smartened Up Designs
Smart technology is also being incorporated in high-end homes—from smart toilets to programmable showers, motion-activated lighting and heated floors. Customization is also a key focus: 83% of designers surveyed by NKBA said their clients desired tailored solutions that soften the technology. For example, power outlets tucked away in drawers, are becoming a standard in bathrooms.
6. Simplifying the Maintenance
With greater wellness focus, homeowners also are looking for finishes that simplify their life. Survey respondents noted a desire for low-maintenance flooring, countertops, sinks and showers. This might include self-cleaning toilets and large format tiles with pencil-thin grout to ease cleaning chores.
