Today’s Master Bath is all about luxury, comfort and functionality. Homeowners are looking for custom, personalized spaces which allow them to decompress from their busy lives.

Spa-inspired spaces complete with clean lines, sleek chrome accents and soothing colors schemes are popular as homeowners re-create the ‘spa experience’ in their own homes. Luxury amenities such as steam showers, multiple shower heads and soaking tubs are often on master bath wish lists. Subtle touches such as using large tiles on floors and walls can reduce visual clutter by minimizing the number of grout lines in a space. Wall mounted, floating vanity cabinets can be used to create a cleaner, more open feel, adding to the spa atmosphere.

With a large percentage of baby boomers in the market, homeowners are placing a high priority on accessibility as they prepare to ‘age in place’. The challenge is to incorporate accessible features into a space without looking institutional. Features such as curbless showers with integrated tile shower seats, 34” or wider doorways, handheld shower heads with adjustability, comfort height commodes, decorative grab bars and stylish open storage for easy access of towels and toiletries are important features to consider in any design. Technology is playing a larger role in the Master Bath as homeowners are opting for luxury features such as infra red sensors on faucets, radiant heated floors with programmable timers, towel warmers, heated or bidet toilet seats, instant hot water heaters and bathtubs with hydrotherapy or chromatherapy options.

Storage and functionality remain top priorities in today’s Master Bath. Furniture-inspired vanities are popular and create a comfortable feel in the space. Options for integrated storage can be incorporated into any bath and include drawers and waste or hamper pullouts. Dedicated linen storage is a welcome addition as well, and can be designed to match the bathroom vanity for a seamless look.

Lighting and ventilation are important elements when designing a new bath. Proper bath fans are required, and lighting with dimmers can help create different moods in the space. In addition, the use of mirrors and glass can help make a small space seem larger. Frameless shower enclosures and full wall-to-wall mirrors are excellent ways to achieve an open feel. The marketplace is full of wonderful product options to choose from, and when paired with the professional advice of a designer your Master Bath can evolve into a special retreat!