Decorating Rooms Bathrooms Bathroom Decorating 48 Modern Bathroom Ideas for a Spa-Like Escape From sleek tile installations to unique color combinations, take inspiration from these modern bathroom ideas. By Patricia Shannon Patricia Shannon Patricia Shannon is a freelance homes writer for Better Homes & Gardens with over a decade of editorial experience. Her areas of expertise include decorating, cleaning, and how-to content. Patricia is also a regular contributor with Southern Living and Coastal Living magazines. Learn about BHG's Editorial Process Updated on October 18, 2023 Trending Videos Close this video player Photo: Julie Soefer Create a relaxing space to get ready for the day and unwind in the evening by designing a modern bathroom. From luxury-inducing marble tile designs to unexpected light fixtures that add both drama and interest, these modern bathroom ideas will help you create a space that’s both calming and beautiful. For a truly spa-inspired space, combine both style and function for a relaxing space you actually look forward to spending time in. Get inspiration and ideas for designing or remodeling a bathroom with contemporary style. Discover sleek vanity inspiration, tile ideas to try, and the best paint colors for creating a modern bathroom. These are our best modern bathroom ideas for every design style. 01 of 48 Modern Focal Point Chad R. Mellon Turn your bath into a sanctuary by giving the most-used elements an unexpected twist, such as a floating vanity with tiled countertops that extend from the backsplash all the way to the ceiling. Wall-mounted fixtures and brass accents create a clean look with just the right amount of sparkle. 32 Beautiful Black-and-White Bathroom Ideas 02 of 48 Patterned Floor Tiles James Nathan Schroder Graphic flooring can take a ho-hum space to new heights in a flash. Strategize ways to keep the surrounding elements more subdued to play up what’s underfoot. A simple palette, natural elements like wood and marble, and pared-down decor will complement the focal flooring without competing for the limelight. 10 Tile Patterns to Try for Backsplashes, Floors, and More 03 of 48 Introduce Natural Elements Julie Soefer Natural elements are key in creating a modern bathroom that still has a warm feel. Items like jute or sisal rugs, natural wood paneling, and decorative elements like vases, pendant light fixtures, and more can soften the cool surfaces and angular elements of modern design. 04 of 48 Modern Black Bathroom EDMUND BARR PHOTOGRAPHY Sleek lines and simple colors are what set a contemporary bath apart from a traditional bath. Dark paneled walls contrast clean, white countertops and a natural wood vanity in this small bathroom. Straight lines from the wall paneling and modern vanity drawers pair nicely with the rounded mirror and curved light fixtures. 32 Beautiful Black-and-White Bathroom Ideas 05 of 48 Bathroom Color Palette Trua Giovan Angles, shapes, and surfaces can all work to deliver a decidedly modern feel, but sometimes nothing proves quite as transformative as a pared-down color palette. Keep it cool and modern with icy grays, matte black hardware, and sleek white porcelain fixtures. The 10 Best Paint Colors for Your Bathroom Vanity 06 of 48 Natural Modern Bathroom Edmund Barr Stone surfaces ranging from floors to walls to even a slate-look tub and shower bench create a modern feel in this gorgeous bathroom. The natural surfaces provide a unique juxtaposition to the tub’s sleek hardware. To meld the various styles together, the vanity draws on a natural wood finish paired with a stone sink. Flooring Types 07 of 48 Calming Colors Emily Followill Natural wood, stone countertops, and green glass tiles come together to form a bathroom that is a relaxing place to retreat after a long day. The sharp lines of the room lend a contemporary feel to the space that utilizes simplicity. Matte black hardware and gold accents lend softness and warmth to the space. The 16 Best Bathroom Vanities of 2024 for Style and Storage 08 of 48 Modern Glam John Granen Anything goes when creating your custom bathroom. A glam-meets-modern aesthetic can be as simple as opting for a romantic chandelier with a more contemporary shower enclosure design, or as intricate as two flooring types to create distinct feels within the same space. Here, the industrial-style shower and elegant stand-alone tub create a juxtaposition with just enough modern appeal. 09 of 48 Modern Bathroom Shower Adam Albright A simple paned glass shower wall gives an open feel while still creating a clear delineation between the two separate-use spaces. Black and white tile in various shapes and sizes creates a cohesive feel that’s not at all matchy-matchy. For a real splash of drama, consider tiling the ceiling above the shower too. 33 Stylish and Functional Ideas for Walk-In Shower Seats 10 of 48 Clean and Contemporary Erica Van Slyke Consider contemporary bathroom decorating ideas when planning a makeover for a spacious bath. Features like a glass-enclosed shower, sleek built-in tub, and modern vanity help make this bathroom a clean and contemporary space. A simple color palette of beige, white, and black also helps keep the room from being too busy. 10 Gray Bathroom Ideas for a Serene Sanctuary 11 of 48 Modern Bathroom Accent Wall Stacy Zarin Goldberg A bold teal half-wall and neutral wallpaper pattern keeps this small bathroom space from feeling stark. The colorful wall paneling energizes the space while continuing the clean lines found throughout. 26 Creative Guest Bathroom Ideas 12 of 48 Shower Wall Tiles Stacy Zarin Goldberg Gold hardware and floor-to-ceiling hexagon shower tiles form a tailored and modern bathroom design. A two-tone color scheme is perfect for simple contemporary bathrooms. 20 Bathroom Wall Tile Ideas to Inspire Your Next Renovation 13 of 48 Modern Bathroom Flooring John Granen What’s underfoot is just as important as any other element in a room, especially when it comes to a bathroom. The surface needs to be resilient, resistant to water, and not too slick. But that doesn't mean aesthetics aren't important, too. Think about how flooring can further the design of the space, for instance, opting for large, slate-style tiles to lend a more utilitarian feel. 15 Bathroom Floor Tile Ideas to Transform a Small Space 14 of 48 Open Bathroom Layout John Bessler Whether open shelves, a zero-entry shower, or windows with a roll shade that can be completely hidden when not in use, keeping the sightlines open will make the lines, shapes, and materials the main focus. Once you find the right mix, you won’t want doors and unnecessary flourishes to stand in the way of showing them off. 8 Types of Showers to Consider for Your Bathroom 15 of 48 Maritime Inspiration Not all contemporary bathrooms look the same. In this farmhouse-inspired bathroom, clean lines and large features—including the oversized mirrors and long floating vanity—give the space modern appeal. 20 Farmhouse Bathroom Ideas We're Swooning For 16 of 48 Modern Black Vanity Dane Tashima A dark vanity becomes the main focal point in this simple bathroom. The moody shade of the vanity pairs well with the mirror and dark bathroom door, while providing contrast to the otherwise all-white bathroom. Contemporary bathroom vanities don't need much dressing up, so keeping other bathroom decor to a minimum is ideal. 19 Small-Bathroom Vanity Ideas to Solve Your Storage Problems 17 of 48 Modern Bathroom Wallpaper Lisa Romerein Create a stunning but simple bathroom by covering the walls in patterned wallpaper. Here, the mostly-white wallpaper brightens this small bathroom while a simple vanity and sleek faucet add to the modern appeal. 18 of 48 Spa Simulation Ryan Garvin Enlarged showers make contemporary bathrooms feel spa-like. In this stunning example, sparkling subway tiles in a non-traditional pattern give the shower life, while a glass half-wall ensures the room still feels spacious. What Is a Curbless Shower? Pros, Cons, and Design Considerations 19 of 48 Modern Marble Bathroom Werner Straube An intricate accent wall made of marble tile creates a mosaic that makes this contemporary small bathroom design unique. Various marble patterns continue on the shower floor, ceiling, and walls, along with large marble floor tiles throughout the rest of the space. Bathroom Flooring Ideas on a Budget for an Affordable Update 20 of 48 Graphic Bathroom Tile Julie Soefer Photography LLC A combination of tile styles can create a dynamic room design when used boldly. White subway tiles and white wall paneling provide a background for a striking floor tile design that continues partway up the walls. 21 of 48 Create a Focal Point Kimberly Gavin Just because a bathroom isn’t a main living space doesn’t mean you can’t have some major fun with the design. In a seamless shower, the unobstructed view is key, so play it up with a stunning marble wall. The solid surface (as opposed to tiled) lends a more modern feel with definite show-stopping appeal. 36 Breathtaking Walk-In Shower Ideas 22 of 48 Mix-and-Match Tiles Werner Straube Herringbone wall tiles and an intricate, colorful floor design give this modern bathroom design a sophisticated look, especially when paired with a statement sink. Clean lines from the floating sink, tiles, and wall mirror give the space a sense of simplicity and ease. 23 of 48 Modern Bathroom Wall Decor Adam Albright If you think art has no place in a bathroom, think again. Create your own gallery-inspired look with unique lighting, elegant fixtures, and a large framed piece hung just above a focal point area like the tub. Situate it in a place where it can have a moment, but one that won’t be in a splash zone. 26 Beautiful and Creative Bathroom Wall Decor Ideas 24 of 48 Modern Bathroom Wallpaper Sara Bradley Gentle pattern play can stand against dark countertops and tile in a decidedly modern way. The trick is tying the two together. Here a white tile acts as a bridge between the patterned wallpaper and solid features, creating cohesion that still lends an air of the unexpected. 37 Bathroom Wallpaper Ideas That Add Pattern and Color to Your Space 25 of 48 Black and White Bathroom Jessical Glynn Klewicki When it comes to contemporary bathrooms, some designs are as simple as black and white. This ultra-sleek space remains calm and collected thanks to all-white walls and a spa-worthy stand-alone bathtub. Chalky black window shutters make a bold statement whether they're left open or closed. Beige tile floors and brass finishes warm up the neutral bathroom. 10 Black Bathroom Ideas That Exude Sophistication 26 of 48 Modern Shower Tiles Annie Schlechter A wall of linear black subway tiles creates a stunning accent wall in this modern bathroom. Marble sinks and floors add a touch of luxury, while a subtle area rug softens the space. 27 of 48 Add a Floating Vanity Kritsada Panichgul In a space like the bathroom where there are more constraints when it comes to the must-have elements, consider how you can give the mainstays an unexpected twist. For instance, a floating vanity certainly lends a more modern feel, particularly when paired with geometric tile, zero-profile cabinets with sleek pulls, and an oblong sink. 9 Modern Floating Vanity Ideas for Sleek Bathroom Storage 28 of 48 Make the Plumbing Pretty Kritsada Panichgul There’s a decidedly modern feel to allowing your plumbing to shine. Chrome fixtures against a light wood grain backsplash and white sink and countertop, provide a pleasing contrast in this industrial-inspired bathroom. A floating wood shelf and blue tile border just below the vanity impart a feeling of warmth and a splash of color. 29 of 48 Try a Wet Room John Granen These days, it’s all about the wet room. The doorless shower area creates a thoroughly modern feel with its clean look. Taking the shower tile throughout the entire space creates an envelope of sorts that pulls the entire room together. Surfaces are key in a wet room, both due to functionality and style, so play them up with well thought-out choices. The Wet Room Is the Luxurious Bathroom Trend That’s Everywhere Right Now 30 of 48 Modern Industrial Bathroom When planning contemporary bathrooms, consider what materials you'll use. Concrete, exposed pipes, and natural wood can all help you achieve the look you desire. Clean, white geometric vessel sinks contrast with the concrete countertops in this bathroom. The result is a room that feels modern yet industrial with a bit of warmth from the wood-framed mirrors. How to Pick the Best Bathroom Layout for Your Dream Space 31 of 48 Contemporary Bathroom Colors Better Homes & Gardens Many contemporary bathroom ideas keep it simple when it comes to color. Clean lines and a monochromatic color palette create a soothing yet stylish bathroom. Ceramic tiles give the illusion of vein-cut travertine and add a high visual impact to the space. If you want to add a touch of color to the space, consider adding a decorative rug by the vanity or playful countertop decor. 32 of 48 Modern Shapes When searching for contemporary bathroom ideas, consider elements with unique patterns and shapes. Geometric accents work great for a contemporary bathroom theme and can be featured on flooring, through furnishings, or as minute details. In this black and white contemporary bathroom, patterned floor tiles grab attention while a sleek circular mirror on the wall helps offset all the hard edges. 33 of 48 Stone Shower Walls Stacey Brandford Stone mosaic tile on one wall of the shower is the stand-out feature in contemporary small bathrooms like this. The grain of the bamboo vanity goes with veining in the large gray tiles on the remaining walls. The same gray stone is used on the floor but laid in an intricate herringbone pattern. 25 Popular Bathroom Paint Colors Our Editors Swear By 34 of 48 Saving Space Contemporary bathroom tiles can make all the difference in your bathroom makeover. In this small space, gray, horizontal tiles work to add subtle visual interest and make the space feel larger. Floating the toilet and vanity also helped to free up visual space. White accessories and espresso-colored wood helps this bathroom feel like an upscale spa. Small Bathroom Storage Ideas That Maximize Every Inch 35 of 48 Choose Unlikely Materials Edmund Barr A floor-to-ceiling pebble wall is naturally waterproof and smooth to the touch, and it creates a textural spa effect. Keep the wall simple and devoid of extra design elements to allow the eyes to rest and emphasize the simplicity of an unadorned freestanding bathtub. 36 of 48 Modern Gray Bathroom Carrara marble tiles dress up the vanity wall as well as the inside of the glass-enclosed shower. A cool gray paint color was inspired by the mix of contemporary bathroom tiles and helps the white accessories stand out. Features such as a vessel sink, simple soaking tub, and floating vanity help this marble bathroom have a modern air. 37 of 48 Style for Size Christina Wedge Modern bathroom design isn't limited to a space with lots of square feet. A streamlined vanity with matching vessel sinks leaves plenty of storage space below for rustic straw baskets. A classic black-and-white palette, employed in horizontal color blocking for a twist, lengthens this small but stylish bath. 38 of 48 Modern Bathroom Windows Mark Lohman This is as close as you'll get to an outdoor bathroom while maintaining a sense of privacy. The floor-to-ceiling windows in this contemporary bathroom are the obvious focal point, letting in plenty of natural light. With a view as great as this, the rest of the bathroom is kept simple with just a minimalist vanity and stand-alone bathtub. 39 of 48 Modern Bathroom Tile Werner Straube There's a lot going on in this contemporary bathroom design. Polished marble countertops have a dramatic impact against white cabinetry. Tiny mosaic tiles of different colors and sizes cover the walls, while on the floor, hexagon tiles create another interesting pattern. The use of white helps to break up the space and give the eye a break from all of the tile work. 40 of 48 Modern Shower Style Make room for the shower. A spacious walk-in shower divides two matching vanities and creates a sense of flow in this bathroom. Various neutral tiles cover the back wall of the shower, while marble helps to enclose the piece. Dark wood helps to ground the otherwise airy space. 41 of 48 Totally Teak Contemporary bathrooms take full advantage of natural elements and hues. The teak tub and pair of sinks warm up this distinctly minimal room. Cream-colored limestone on the floor and walls keeps a serene effect in full force in the bathroom. Throw a white robe into the mix, and this space will look just like a resort spa. 42 of 48 Design Symmetrically Werner Straube For a classic modern style, finish your space with an eye on symmetry, which creates soothing visual order. This modern bathroom incorporates many materials, including glass tile, slate, and wood, but the look is cohesive and upscale thanks to mirrored built-in shelves and an overall uniformity. 43 of 48 Accessorize Boldly Alise O'brien For a clean, modern bathroom design, keep fixtures and finishes minimal. However, the room doesn't have to be void of ornamentation or personality. Hang a graphic pendant light fixture above a freestanding egg-shaped tub for a look that wows. 44 of 48 Incorporate Greenery John Granen An evergreen view inspired the soothing scheme featured in this modern bathroom. Much like the colors found in nature, the muted green hues inspire tranquility. Hanging pendants contribute subtle luster and interest to the sleek space. 45 of 48 Glass Shower with Small Tile John Bessler Many modern bathroom designs include walls of sparkling glass. If you shy away from complete visibility, try etched glass to add opacity to doors and windows. The tinted material allows for a more discreet view and lets in just enough light to keep a small bath bright. 46 of 48 Play with Pattern Jay Wilde Employ a mix of patterns and shapes for visual interest in an otherwise monochromatic modern bath. Small-scale glass tiles provide a shimmering backdrop for this freestanding bathtub. The black-and-white motif continues in the room's geometric window treatments, which add interest to the dark wall. 47 of 48 Consider Comfort Emily J. Followill It's easy to get caught up in the application of glass and tile so often associated with modern bathrooms. Adding curtain panels and a plush bench cushion provides the softness a modern bath needs to absorb sound and ease hard edges. 48 of 48 Modern Rustic Bathroom Update any design style by finding contemporary bathroom products with references to the past. This bathroom—with its silver soaking tub, pickled floor, and marble trough sink—is a chic answer to those who desire an updated take on country design. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit