If “balance” is the word on every homeowner’s mind when it comes to their kitchen design in 2026, then “sanctuary” is the word for 2026 bathroom designs. Homeowners are moving towards bathroom materials and layouts that feel luxurious, spa-inspired, and built to withstand real life. If you’re planning a bathroom renovation this year, here are the six bathroom trends you’re going to want to bookmark.
1. Creating A Spa-At-Home Wellness Retreat
The biggest overarching bathroom trend for 2026 is an exciting one: bathrooms are set to become full-body sanctuaries. It’s no longer enough for a nice tub and good lighting: homeowners are looking to create true sensory retreats.
In terms of what this tangibly looks like, expect to see deep sculptural freestanding soaking tubs serving as the focal point of the room. These tubs, paired with a steam shower – including ones that feature aromatherapy infusion systems – create a more personalized experience. To really cap things off, radiant heated floors remain a must-have for Canadians seeking to stay warm and comfortable, especially in the cooler seasons.
Timber Tip
What are soaking tubs, aromatherapy infusion systems and heated floors without an array of self-care items? A subtle, recessed niche in your steam shower or near your soaking tub is the perfect way to display your products, keeping surfaces clutter-free and really creating that “calm spa” vibe.
2. Mixing Metals Can Create A Sophisticated Statement
That pesky old “one-metal-only rule” is so 2025. Looking ahead to 2026, it will be more common to see bathrooms embracing a thoughtful mix of finishes for texture, depth and a custom-design look.
If you’re not sure where to start, opt for this popular pairing, that adds a subtle contrast and balance, without overwhelming the space:
- Faucets and hardware: Matte Black or Brushed Brass
- Lighting, shower frames or accessories: Polished Nickel or Chrome
Timber Tip
No one wants their at-home wellness retreat to feel visually chaotic! While you might be tempted to add lots of variety to your bathroom finishings, cohesion is key to creating an intentional look. When mixing metals, our expert recommendation is to choose finishes that are all brushed or all polished.
3. Artistic And Textured Tiles
Tiles are an easy way for homeowners to make a bold statement with their bathroom design – and there’s no lack of options in 2026. Here are a few tile options to experiment with shape, texture, and placement:
- Zellige: With their handmade-look, they create a beautifully imperfect surface, subtle colour variation and glossy, light-reflecting finishes.
- 3D textured tiles: Their raised patterns and sculptured surfaces can add depth, dimension and a modern, architectural feel to any bathroom.
- Fluted or ribbed porcelain: This style adds subtle texture and tactile interest with clean, linear grooves.
Timber Tip
4. A Luxury Shower Experience
We’re seeing a broader shift towards accessibility and luxury in bathrooms, often embracing a whole “wet room” aesthetic. Expect to see larger, walk-in showers in 2026, featuring floor-to-ceiling frameless glass, sleek linear drains that sit flush with the flooring, and large-format porcelain tiles. These features, combined with built-in benches and niches, add convenience, sophistication and an upscale finish.
Timber Tip
If you’re loving the shift towards accessibility and flexibility, you’ll want to add a subtle hand-held showerhead, alongside your central fixture. This little extra helps contribute to the overall spa-like experience, without compromising the sleek, seamless look of the rest of the shower.
5. Smart And Sustainable Water Management
Sustainability is becoming a non-negotiable for many Canadian homeowners when designing their bathrooms. And the good news? Smart technology is moving beyond novelty and into everyday efficiency.
For example, smart shower systems can preheat water to your preferred temperature before you step in. Naturally, this reduces waste and enhances ease-of-use. Another example is touchless or voice-activated faucets, which improve hygiene while lowering overall water consumption. Finally, energy-efficient, low-flow products continue to rise in popularity, thanks to Canadian green homes initiatives.
Timber Tip
Before picking out your own smart gadgets, look for models that work seamlessly with your existing home systems (e.g., Smart hubs, voice assistants or app-controlled lighting). This way, you can ensure your shower, faucets, and toilets are actually making your daily routine easier, while reducing water and energy use!
6. Statement Lighting, Stunning Vanities & Personality-Driven Decor
After all the work you’ve done to make an at-home spa wellness retreat, don’t skip out on some expressive lighting! Lighting, vanities and decor are all being used strategically to give homeowners a space that feels truly personal.
To create a calming effect, consider using layered lighting. You could include decorative pendants above the vanity instead of traditional sconces, combined with backlit mirrors, toe-kick LEDs and softly lit shower niches.
Vanities, especially in large en-suites, are transforming bathrooms. You might consider custom options, such as integrated seating, dedicated task lighting, or luxury materials like reeded glass and warm wood cabinetry.
Finally, bathrooms are embracing maximalist, story-driven personalization. Bold wallpaper accents, curated artwork and sculptural décor pieces are replacing the minimalist “hotel bathroom” look.
Timber Tip
Use hidden or built-in storage to keep everyday essentials out of sight. That way, your bold design choices can take centre stage! We recommended hidden medicine cabinets, pull-out shelves or toe-kick drawers for optimal organization and storage.
When planning your 2026 bathroom renovation, come talk to a TIMBER MART expert. We carry the latest in style and technology, and have expert advice to help you choose the right products and fixtures for your budget.
