As children grow up and move out, empty nesters are left with extra space in their homes. The kids’ bedrooms become guest rooms or home offices, and the oversized family bathroom gets a makeover. Contemporary style is clean and simple, with enough personality to make the space feel special. For empty nesters looking to reclaim their bathrooms, a contemporary aesthetic can create an oasis that feels peaceful yet current.
Why Contemporary Style Works for Empty Nesters
Contemporary bathroom design suits empty nesters for several reasons:
Simplicity
Raising kids means clutter and chaos. With the little ones grown up, contemporary style’s clean lines provide a sense of tranquility. Crisp whites and neutral shades don’t compete for attention. There’s breathing room to relax and reset.
Low Maintenance
Durability and easy care are priorities for on-the-go empty nesters. Contemporary materials like porcelain tile, quartz counters, and metal hardware withstand daily use with minimal upkeep required.
Universal Appeal
Empty nesters may use their renovated bathrooms more frequently when hosting friends or housing adult children in between moves. Contemporary style has broad allure, satisfying diverse aesthetic preferences.
Adaptability
Tastes and needs change over time. Contemprary style seamlessly accommodates adjustments. Swapping art, towels, and accessories gives bathrooms effortless mini-makeovers as desired.
Refined Elegance
Empty nesters appreciate refined, sophisticated spaces over juvenile motifs. The minimalism of contemporary style has an elegant sensibility perfect for adults.
Elements of Contemporary Bathroom Design
Several key elements define the contemporary look:
Clean Lines
Contemporary design favors straight lines and geometric shapes. Built-in cabinets have rectilinear profiles without ornate detailing. Faucets and fixtures have a squared-off or cylindrical simplicity.
Neutral Color Palette
Stark whites, warm taupes and soft greys create an airy, zen-like ambiance. Pops of color can be introduced through artwork, textiles and accent tiles.
Natural Textures
Natural materials add cozy texture. Stone surfaces like marble and travertine have beautiful veining. Wood cabinetry offers organic pattern and depth.
Metallic Finishes
Brushed metals, like nickel and matte black, have an urban edge. They provide sleek contrast to the powdery hues and natural textures.
Spa-Inspired Touches
Details evoke a relaxing spa vibe. Consider a wall-mounted waterfall faucet, freestanding tub, towel warmer, or space for candles.
Subtle Patterns
Minimalist doesn’t have to mean monotonous. Interest comes from subtle patterns on floors, walls, counters and backsplashes. Opt for tone-on-tone looks.
Seamless Open Shelving
Floating shelves and clean-lined cabinets maximize a sense of airiness. The absence of knobs enhances the streamlined contemporary vibe.
Bathroom Layouts for Empty Nesters
Empty nester bathrooms often require a layout personalized for two. Here are some popular options:
Spacious Master Baths
With kids gone, empty nesters may devote extra square footage to a master bath retreat. Soaking tubs, roomy walk-in showers, and double vanities become possibilities.
His & Hers Sinks
Even modestly sized master baths can accommodate his and hers sinks. This allows couples to share the space while respecting privacy needs.
Barrier-Free Showers
Aging-in-place renovations include grab bars, curbless showers, comfort-height toilets and ADA-compliant clearances. Contemporary style seamlessly incorporates these universal design elements.
Flexible Floor Plans
Empty nesters may use remodeled baths as multipurpose dressing rooms. A partition can separate the toilet and shower from a dressing area with storage and a makeup vanity.
Private Water Closets
For large master baths, a separate water closet compartment isolates the toilet away from other areas. This prevents smells and noises from permeating the space.
Selecting Tile and Surfaces
Tile, stone and quartz surfaces suit contemporary style with their neutral hues, minimal pattern and sleek profiles. Consider:
- Porcelain, ceramic or glass tile for floors, walls and backsplashes. Select neutral colors with tone-on-tone mottling for subtle interest. Opt for large format tiles to amplify the contemporary vibe.
- Natural stone such as marble, travertine or limestone for bathroom counters and wall accents. Honed finishes minimize glare.Veining adds organic texture.
- Engineered quartz countertops provide durability and easy maintenance. Brands like Caesarstone offer clean-lined contemporary aesthetics. Subway tiles or quartz backsplashes coordinate nicely.
- Wood-look porcelain planks add warmth underfoot while withstanding bathroom humidity. Opt for neutral blurred grain patterns.
- Concrete-style tile mimics the urban chic of polished concrete floors but with the perks of tile (warmer underfoot, safer traction when wet).
Choosing Contemporary Faucets and Fixtures
For contemporary bathrooms, avoid ornate detailing and opt for:
- Wall-mounted minimalist faucets with a single lever handle. Go for matte black or brushed nickel.
- Vessel, bowl or floating vanity sinks that appear suspended above the counter. Stainless steel and glass work well.
- Rainfall shower heads for a luxurious spa vibe. Install elegantly on the ceiling or Wall.
- Freestanding soaking tubs for statement pieces. Modern materials like stone resin exude contemporary flair.
- Digital interfaces on toilets, showers, mirrors and more for sleek high-tech appeal. Touch controls keep surfaces clutter-free.
- Robust drain covers to conceal plumbing. Choose metal meshes, perforated discs or linear designs.
Selecting Lighting for Contemporary Bathrooms
Proper illumination transforms bathrooms. Consider these contemporary lighting strategies:
- LED recessed can lights provide ambient glow from the ceiling without cluttering visual space.
- Horizontal vanity light bars illuminate sinks and faces without compromising style. Go minimalist.
- Sconces flanking mirrors provide adjustable task lighting. Choose metal finishes to match faucets.
- Undercabinet lighting casts a soft glow to highlight quartz counters and modern sinks.
- Freestanding floor lamps add sculpture. Opt for slender tripod styles.
- Natural light maximizes the airy vibe. Skylights, frosted glass windows and clear shower doors bring sunlight in.
Choosing Bathroom Cabinets and Storage
While contemporary style values a visually simplified look, ample smart storage preserves that serenity. Consider:
- Floating vanities detached from floors and walls create an airier aesthetic. Go for crisp, streamlined silhouettes.
- Medicine cabinets and mirrors with integrated storage disappear into walls, keeping necessities accessible but out of view.
- Drawers and pull-out shelves allow accessing contents in deep cabinets without digging. Soft-close glides ensure smooth, quiet access.
- Tower cabinets provide vertical storage for linens. Opt for sleek, minimalist profiles.
- Baskets and trays corral clutter. Woven seagrass or ceramic add texture.
- Custom built-in shelving tackles unique storage needs. Glass doors optimize visibility while concealing contents.
Creating a Spa Experience
Elements evoking a spa help contemporary bathrooms pamper. Consider:
Soaking Tubs
Slip into a deep tub with ergonomic contours after a stressful day. Choose contemporary styles like Japanese soakers or minimalist European tubs. Position by a window for garden views.
Rainfall Showers
Rainfall showerheads douse the body in a soothing cascade. Opt for large 8-10 inch diameters. Include a hand shower for targeting sore muscles or washing hair.
Heated Floors
Radiant floor heating transforms bare feet on chilly mornings. Tile and stone surfaces transfer heat gently and evenly.
Towel Warmers
Extend the spa experience once out of steamy showers. Heated towel bars or racks keep towels cozy soft.
Natural Light
Windows and skylights give bathing a sense of sun-warmed tranquility. Optimize views while preserving privacy.
Plants
Houseplants lend organic texture and fresh oxygen. Opt for tropicals that thrive in steamy humidity.
Essential Oils
Aromatherapy benefits mind and body. Use a diffuser, salts, scrubs or rubs laced with calming scents.
Soft Textiles
Plush bath mats, towels and robes enfold the body. Prioritize super-absorbent 100% cotton.
Minimal Clutter
Clear countertops, simplified storage and spacious layouts prevent overload and overstimulation.
Design Details With Personality
While generally simple, contemporary style still allows opportunities to showcase individuality. Have fun with:
- Unexpected textures – Try grasscloth wallpaper, nubby linen curtains, or a Moroccan rug.
- Bold artwork – Black and white photography, abstract impressionistic prints, and graffiti-style canvases pop dramatically.
- Vintage accessories – Mid-century tubs, retro wall lamps and wire baskets have retro appeal.
- Dramatic mirrors – Lean floor mirrors against walls. Opt for rounded styles.
- Wood accents – Teak shelves, bamboo stool and woven wood blinds add warmth.
- Plants – Trailing ivy, potted succulents, lucky bamboo and orchids add life.
- Colored glass – Vivid blue and green bottles lend pops of color. Display on floating shelves.
- Unexpected metals – Rose gold, champagne bronze and matte black faucets feel fresh and contemporary.
- Custom tile – Use encaustic pattern or handmade Moroccan tiles as artistic backsplashes.
FAQs About Contemporary Bathroom Design
What colors work well in contemporary bathrooms?
Neutrals like white, grey, taupe and black establish a simple, crisp foundation. Punctuate with occasional bold tones in accessories or art. Avoid complicated color schemes.
What flooring is best for a contemporary bathroom?
Porcelain, natural stone, concrete-look tile, and wood-look plank tile suit contemporary style. Opt for neutral hues with subtle mottling. Large format tiles amplify spaciousness.
Should I choose marble or quartz for my contemporary vanity top?
Marble is classic with natural veining adding interest. But quartz tolerates moisture better long-term and requires less sealing. Both suit contemporary style well.
What contemporary touches can I add if renovating a traditional bathroom?
Update lighting, faucets, cabinetry and accessories first. Consider new contemporary vanities, hardware-free cabinet styling and storage solutions. Then tackle counters, sinks, tile.
How do I add storage to my contemporary bathroom without cluttering the look?
Use wall-mounted vanities to open up floors. Add recessed medicine cabinets. Try glass-door shelving. Store items attractively in baskets. Install slim drawers and pull-out cabinets.
How can I get a luxury spa feel in my contemporary bathroom?
Introduce elements like soaking tubs, steam showers, heated floors, towel warmers and rainfall showerheads. Use stone and natural textures. Ensure minimal, tranquil ambiance.
Should I get a free-standing tub or built-in tub for my contemporary bathroom?
For a streamlined look, built-in tubs fit cleanly into alcoves. Free-standing tubs make dramatic sculptural statements. Ensure accessibility and safe entry/exit.
How can I get windows and natural light into my windowless contemporary bathroom?
Add skylights or solar tubes. Use glass block walls or frosted windows. Install recessed lighting and mirrors to brighten space. Maximize reflective surfaces.
How do I transition my master bathroom into a contemporary style while aging in place?
Include universal design elements like grab bars, curbless showers, comfort height toilets and open floor space. Style these features with contemporary materials and minimalist shapes.
How can I add character to my neutral, minimalist contemporary bathroom?
Layer in subtle patterns through tile, wallpaper or upholstered stools. Add warmth with wood accents. Introduce industrial touches with vintage accessories. Use dramatic plants and artwork.
Contemporary Style for Empty Nester Bathrooms
Empty nesters embarking on bathroom renovations can revitalize their spaces with the chill simplicity of contemporary style. Clean lines, spa-like elements, and nature-inspired textures create a refined retreat suitable for unwinding and hosting guests. Aim for timeless by focusing on high-end materials designed to last years of daily use with minimal upkeep required. Take advantage of professional design services to ensure styles and layouts flexibly evolve along with empty nesters’ needs and tastes. Though initially serene and subdued, a contemporary bathroom readily allows for personality to shine through in special details and accessories. The resulting space offers empty nesters a fresh take on pared-back elegance.
