Have you ever scrolled through Pinterest and fallen in love with a stunning modern bathroom? What if we told you that dream isn’t out of reach?
By following the right tips, you can transform your bathroom into a modern space and add a touch of minimalism and elegance.
With that in mind, the Blocks team has put together valuable (and exclusive) tips in this article to help you get a head start on your bathroom design project.
Here, you’ll find tips on everything from tiles to lighting, so you won’t make any mistakes when you start your project.
So, get your notepad ready to jot down the precious tips we’ve prepared for you. Ready? Let’s get started!
10 tips for decorating a modern bathroom
Decorating a bathroom isn’t easy, especially when we’re talking about a modern bathroom.
That’s why, before starting a bathroom project, it’s always a good idea to get tips that will make a real difference in the end result.
Let’s take a look at some of them that you can apply to your own project!
1. Choose statement surfaces for walls and floors
In a modern bathroom, the choice of surfacing materials makes all the difference. So, prioritize high-quality, minimalist materials that are easy to maintain..
Large porcelain slabs are trending. Besides being elegant, they reduce the amount of grout lines and make the space feel more cohesive.
Some examples of neutral colors for a modern bathroom are white, gray, or beige. These are timeless classics that visually expand the space.
You can also invest in 3D or textured tiles to add personality without straying from the neutral palette.
Another modern trend is using vinyl wallpaper designed for wet areas, as it is an affordable material available in various patterns.
Whether it’s wood-look porcelain, polished concrete, or wallpaper, choose materials that harmonize with each other and reflect the style you want.
Tip: You can find modern finishes at Portobello.
2. Illuminated niches
A golden tip for modern bathrooms is to include built-in niches in the shower walls or above the sink and they’re even better if they’re illuminated.
LED-lit niches add a surprising and practical element to the space.
This internal lighting highlights decorative or daily-use items (like soaps and shampoos) and creates a cozy atmosphere in the bathroom.
In addition to the aesthetic appeal, niches keep everything organized and within reach, which prevents the clutter of protruding shelves.
In 2024 and 2025, illuminated niches have remained popular, proving that functionality and beauty go hand in hand in bathroom decor.
A tip is to use white light LED strips for a modern effect or warm light for a cozier touch.
3. Frameless mirrors with built-in lighting
How about swapping your regular mirror for one with built-in lighting? It’s a simple idea that makes the bathroom much more modern.
Frameless mirrors, when accompanied by built-in LED lighting, either on the edges or from behind, provide a clean and high-tech look.
The white LED light helps with putting on makeup or shaving, increasing visibility and practicality in your daily routine.
This type of frameless mirror with light creates an elegant focal point above the sink, which eliminates the need for conventional wall sconces.
The result is a modern bathroom with a sophisticated look and strategic lighting, free of unwanted shadows on your face.
Extra tip: Look for models with anti-fog and dimmable light functions. This way, you can adjust the intensity to create a relaxing mood during your bath.
4. Sculpted vessel sinks
To elevate the design of your vanity, consider installing a sculpted vessel sink.
Unlike traditional sinks, sculpted sinks (often integrated into the countertop itself) add a touch of sophisticated design.
They are made from the same material as the countertop, such as marble, granite, or porcelain, creating a uniform and modern visual effect.
In addition to their beauty, there are functional advantages: since the sculpted sink is continuous with the countertop, there are no protruding edges, which makes cleaning easier and prevents the accumulation of dirt.
Don’t forget that the drain is often hidden, which contributes directly to a minimalist and clean look.
5. Matte finish faucets and shower fixtures
Details make a difference in a modern bathroom, and one of the trending details is plumbing fixtures with a matte finish.
Faucets, mixers, and showerheads in shades like matte black, graphite, or brushed gold give the space an instant contemporary feel.
Matte black, in particular, is a designer’s top choice for creating sophisticated contrast against light or wood-look tiles.
The advantage of these fixtures is that they don’t easily smudge with fingerprints and they match various styles, from industrial to minimalist.
With just a few matte touches, even a simple bathroom can feel more personalized and stylish, proving that modernity is also in the small details.
6. Smoked or fluted glass doors
In the quest for privacy without losing elegance, special glass partitions and shower enclosures are trending.
Two great options for a modern bathroom are frosted glass (lightly darkened) and fluted glass (textured with vertical lines).
Tempered frosted glass gives the shower enclosure an immediate sense of sophistication, adding privacy and creating a cozy atmosphere, perfect for contemporary projects.
It also hides water spots better compared to regular clear glass.
Fluted glass, a hit in the 40s-70s, has made a comeback among current architects and designers precisely for its retro-chic appeal.
It features lines that allow light to pass through while distorting the view, offering partial privacy and an interesting decorative effect.
Both types, frosted and fluted, show attention to detail and make it clear that your bathroom is anything but basic.
7. Monochromatic countertops
To achieve an effortlessly sophisticated effect, consider a monochromatic countertop that matches the rest of the bathroom’s palette.
The idea is to use similar or identical colors for the countertop, sink, and even the wall and floor coverings, creating an elegant visual continuity.
For example, in a predominantly white bathroom, a countertop in light limestone or white porcelain will help maintain a harmonious design.
In a gray context, a polished concrete or gray granite countertop fits the bill perfectly.
Minimalist design exudes sophistication by relying on a monochromatic palette, creating a timeless, elegant space with a modern edge.
But monochromatic doesn’t mean monotonous: you can play with different textures within the same tone—matte and glossy, smooth and grainy—to add depth.
8. Layered lighting
Well-planned lighting is also fundamental to modern bathroom decor.
Instead of relying on just one central ceiling light, adopt the concept of layered lighting.
This approach distributes different light sources throughout the space to serve distinct functions.
Use general lighting to illuminate the bathroom as a whole, task lighting to focus on the mirror, and accent lighting to highlight decorative details.
The trend of using multiple light sources is gaining traction and replacing the traditional single central point, precisely because it creates a cozier and more multifunctional effect.
Therefore, in your project, consider embedding LED spots in the ceiling for diffused lighting, installing LED strips under the vanity or inside niches (indirect lighting), and installing pendants or sconces next to the mirror to avoid shadows on your face.
10. Towel racks and accessories
The “less is more” philosophy in modern design also applies to bathroom accessories.
Therefore, keeping the space visually clean and uncluttered is important for the room to feel more spacious and sophisticated.
So, invest in built-in or discreet towel racks and other “invisible” holders.
An interesting idea is a towel rack built into the side of the countertop or below it. This way, the towel is easily accessible, but the holder is practically hidden.
For example, there are sculpted sinks that already come with a hollowed-out space to hang a towel.
Another modern solution is minimalist wall-mounted heated towel racks: in addition to drying and warming towels, they take up little space and have a super discreet look.
By hiding or camouflaging accessories, the modern bathroom remains visually “clean,” highlighting only what matters: designer tile, fixtures, and fittings.
What is the most elegant color for a modern bathroom?
When it comes to elegant bathroom colors, designers often point to neutral and sober tones.
Gray, for example, is frequently cited as one of the most chic colors for modern bathrooms, especially when combined with black or gold details.
A gray base brings sophistication and modernity, serving as the perfect backdrop for prominent fixtures and accessories.
In addition to gray, shades of beige and off-white also add a sense of refinement and timelessness to the space.
These light colors expand the room and never go out of style, allowing you to change decorative details over time without having to replace all the tiles.
For those who want a more dramatic touch without losing elegance, black can be used in details (like in the shower enclosure, vanity, or light fixtures), creating a sophisticated contrast.
In other words, a neutral color palette, such as gray, white, beige, and black, is a safe bet for a chic modern bathroom.
You can enhance this neutral base with metallic finishes (gold, copper) or natural elements (light wood, plants) to add personality without losing class.
What can replace tile in a bathroom?
If you want to move away from traditional tiles in your bathroom decor, there are several interesting alternatives that can offer a result just as good (or better) in terms of aesthetics and practicality.
It’s not necessary to use only conventional tiles. Other materials serve the purpose and often bring more personality to the space.
Below, we’ve listed some options to replace tiles in the bathroom:
- Adhesive vinyl panels: Widely used for flooring, vinyl can also be applied to walls. It’s quick to apply and comes in various patterns, such as wood, marble, and geometric designs, allowing you to renovate your bathroom in hours. Additionally, it adapts to existing surfaces and is moisture-resistant when designed for wet areas.
- Epoxy resin (liquid porcelain): A continuous and seamless solution. Epoxy resin can be applied to both floors and walls, creating a smooth, glossy, and highly resistant surface to water and cleaning products. Since it has no grout lines, it prevents the accumulation of dirt and mold, making it easy to clean in a modern bathroom.
- Vinyl wallpaper: Specifically for bathrooms, vinyl wallpaper holds up well to humidity and even splashes in the shower area, as long as there are no leaks. It’s easy to install and replace, has a special adhesive, and comes in countless patterns—from polished concrete (very on-trend) to floral or geometric prints—bringing originality without the hassle of demolition.
- PVC tiles or plastic panels: These are lightweight, waterproof panels that imitate materials like mosaic tiles or patterned tiles. They are sold in sheets that you can glue over an existing wall. The plastic “tiles” are simple to install, easy to clean with soap and water, and are available in various colors and patterns.
- Marble, granite, or other natural stones: If the idea is a luxurious modern bathroom, covering walls with marble or granite slabs is an alternative to conventional tile. The point of attention is the cost, which is usually higher, and the need for periodic sealing in some cases. But nothing beats the air of exclusivity that a well-chosen marble gives to the bathroom.
Stephannie Serafini
Architect and Marketing Analyst | Blocks®
“Cement tiles and glass mosaics can also replace tile to create unique decorative effects. However, these materials require specialized installation and, in the case of cement tiles, have a higher cost and require sealing. Use them as an accent in a band or niche to avoid large investments and still have a retro/modern highlight.”
Design your modern bathroom with free families from the Blocks Plugin!
How about turning your modern bathroom ideas into a tangible project even before starting the renovation?
With the Blocks Plugin for Revit, you can design efficiently, placing virtual furniture and finishes with just a few clicks. Blocks provides a comprehensive library with over 7,000 BIM families, including everything from sculpted sinks and minimalist light fixtures to innovative tiles, decorative plants, and fluted glass shower enclosures.
All of this makes it easy to fine-tune every detail of your design. The best part is that many of these families are free with our Free plan, allowing you to enhance your project at no cost.
Try the Blocks plugin and start designing your perfect modern bathroom today!
Conclusion
Designing a modern bathroom goes beyond following trends; it’s about tailoring ideas to your lifestyle and routine, creating a space that’s both functional and enjoyable.
From choosing standout wall and floor coverings to investing in well-planned lighting, every decision you make reflects your personality and attention to comfort.
With the tips we’ve explored above, you have a great starting point to restyle your bathroom with a contemporary flair.
Remember to maintain balance: mix functionality with decorative touches, technology with natural elements, always aiming for harmony.
Now it’s time to put these ideas into practice – either by rolling up your sleeves yourself or by calling in the professionals.Soon, you’ll be able to enjoy a renovated bathroom worthy of Pinterest inspiration and completely adapted to your needs.
Enjoyed this content? For more like this, follow the Blocks blog!
