Green subway tiles, bolder paint choices, and creative lighting are set to dominate bathroom trends in 2026, according to design expert Marcus Pearson.
Marcus, who is head designer at specialist bathroom manufacturer nuie, has noted several key trends emerging in the market and from the requests nuie installers are receiving from their clients.
Here, he takes an in-depth look at the styles and features that are sure to be top of homeowners’ lists in 2026.
Shifting colours and interiors
“Neutrals and softer, muted tones have been popular in the interiors space this year, following ”mocha mousse” being named Pantone’s colour of 2025. In fact, Google searches for “neutral bathroom” are up 86%.
“These tones will continue to be popular in 2026 due to their versatility, but with a twist. Many of our installers are seeing an increasing requests for bold, tiled feature walls – particularly dark green subway tiles. This is reflected in Google search trends, where “green bathroom tiles” have already risen over 300% in the past year.
“It’s clear that green bathrooms aren’t going anywhere in 2026. Those who are curious about the trend can rest assured of its versatility – when paired with the right brushed brass brassware, green subway tiles can channel a heritage, Victorian-inspired look or create a more modern, spa-like effect.”
Bold bathroom designs are in
“These days, not all bathrooms are – or need to be – completely tiled to be practical. Modern bathroom paint offers high performance in damp and humid conditions and creates a much more adaptable canvas for creativity. Unlike tiles – which are costly and time-consuming to install, rip out and replace – a lick of paint can transform an entire bathroom fast, and at a relatively low cost.
“In other words, homeowners are opting for bolder bathroom design choices because they can do so with less commitment. If clients get bored, they can always change painted or papered walls and swap out cosmetic elements like décor accessories, towels, and plants to match.”
The next big bathroom trend
“Definitely the combination of traditional materials and modern technology.
Our installers are getting lots of requests for shaker style cabinets and marble countertops, but also convenience features like touch-free taps, floating basins and task lighting, such as lights which illuminate the inside of drawers when they’re opened.
“In fact, playing with light will be a big thing for 2026 bathroom renovations. People will be looking for new ways to create warmth or embrace a darker, more dramatic atmosphere with feature lighting and shadow.”
Functional comes to the forefront
“More homeowners are looking to make use of the limited space they have, whether that’s a loft bathroom with sloping ceilings or a downstairs toilet with a tight floorplan.
“That means functional furniture and space-saving features are coming to the forefront. Expect to see more multi-purpose furniture like mirrored storage cabinets, and slimline walk-in showers – searches for which have risen 30% in the last six months alone.
“In fact, according to our installers, all customers want to install wet room screens where possible. Not only does it offer a sleeker look, it’s also easier to clean as it lacks the additional nooks and crannies that come with enclosure trims and rollers, which can begin to look grubby with time and use.”
Pinterest drives bathroom inspiration – but can bring some challenges
“We are seeing a marked increase in clients embracing the aesthetic side of bathroom design, rather than thinking with a practicality-first mindset. Homeowners with an eye for interiors see ideas on Pinterest, Instagram and other social media platforms, and want them for themselves.
“However, it takes patience, budget, and close collaboration with a trusted installer to translate the bathroom of your dreams from your Pinterest board to your home.
“Certain features can be physically incompatible with certain spaces. Others are just way out of the client’s budget. And it’s not only the products themselves that can rack up the cost, it’s also the labour required to fit them. Trendy wall-mounted taps, lights in niches or under shelves, and flawless wet rooms are particularly labour-intensive to install – which all adds to your final bill.
“However, there is always a balance to be struck. With good communication between installer and client, more budget-friendly options and compromises can still bring your vision to life.
“The nuie bathroom site is a great place for homeowners to head for more bathroom inspiration. With such an extensive selection of bathroom furniture, ceramics and shower screens, it’s the perfect place to spark ideas and bring any bathroom vision to life.
“Plus, customers can now become bathroom designers via our innovative 3D Design App, which makes it simple to visualise our products in your space, and start bringing your dream bathroom to life.”
Visit https://www.nuiebathrooms.com/ for more bathroom inspiration.
Try nuie’s 3D Design App at www.nuiebathrooms.com/design-your-own-bathroom
