10 Modern Bathroom Ideas You'll Love
Your bathroom shouldn't be a forgotten corner of your home. Well-thought-out modern bathrooms make you feel good as you go about your routines. Despite what you may think, modern bathrooms are more than just basic fixtures and sterile tiles (although if that’s what you like, go for it!); they’re full of opportunities for personalisation. Whether you’re going for ‘statement’ or ‘serenity’, modern design offers endless possibilities to turn your bathroom into a space you love.
Features of modern bathrooms
But first, what does it actually mean to have a modern space? Modern bathrooms don’t all look the same, but they do share certain characteristics. Here are the key elements of modern bathroom design:
- Clean lines: Modern design emphasises clean lines. Whether you prefer sharp corners or curved surfaces, make sure they’re free of too many ornate details. This creates a sense of calm and spaciousness, even in smaller bathrooms.
- Quality materials: Natural elements like stone and wood aren’t just for rustic spaces. In today’s modern bathroom, it’s not uncommon to see a timber vanity or marble benchtop. The only secret is quality.
- Sleek fixtures: Fixtures are simple and functional, tying in with other details in the space. Don't be afraid of colour — while matte black is an obvious choice, finishes like brushed brass and warm brushed nickel can make a beautifully modern space.
- Ambient lighting: Natural light is a must, but modern bathrooms also use layered artificial lighting with recessed fixtures and wall sconces to create ambience. Choose lighting that prioritises smart design over frills.
- Order: The absence of clutter creates a clear visual space. Without overflowing shelves or decorative knick knacks, you can fully relax in your modern bathroom. Keep grooming products hidden or in benchtop organisers.
- Understated luxury: Modern bathrooms don't shy away from a touch of luxury — even if it’s not always obvious. As we said, this can be achieved through high-quality materials, minimalist fixtures or spa-like touches.
Modern bathroom layouts
The first step to any successful bathroom transformation is the layout. Here are some ideas to set the tone for your modern bathroom reno:
Open bathroom layout
Embrace an open bathroom layout by opting for a walk-in shower instead of an enclosed shower or bathtub/shower combo. Much like the idea of an open-plan home, open bathroom layouts create a sense of openness and make the space feel larger. Frameless glass panes and a rainfall showerhead are a go-to here.
Built-in storage
Built-in storage solutions are essential in a modern bathroom. Think built-in cabinets that blend into the walls or recessed shelves. This will also help keep everything off the counters and window sills, showing off your carefully chosen modern tiles, vanity, shower and toilet.
Shower niche
Modern bathroom layouts efficiently use every inch of space. Niches and recesses built into the shower walls create storage for toiletries and other shower essentials. They also eliminate the need for often clunky and outdated shower caddies.
Modern bathroom designs
Looking for a little bit of inspiration? Let’s get to the fun part. Here are a few decor styles perfect for modern bathrooms:
Modern minimalist
The minimalist design movement shares lots of similarities with modern decor — the primary being the idea that less is more. White and neutrals are a favourite here, creating a feeling of airiness in even the darkest of bathrooms. While some mistake minimalism for emptiness, it's actually all about intentionality. Well-chosen tiles, textiles and decor are perfectly acceptable as long as they adhere to the core principle of simplicity.
Black & white
Black and white is a timeless combination and a high-contrast take on the modern bathroom. There are so many ways to make black and white feel modern — incorporate black marble countertops or a statement wall using black tiles or paint. Another option is keeping your bathroom primarily white but creating a more subtle contrast with matte black tapware.
Resort modern
Some people prefer a lived-in look; others something a little more polished. If you fall into the latter category, you might be drawn to the crisp, beautiful bathrooms you’d see in an upscale Byron Bay or Bali beach house. We love how glossy white square and subway tiles pair with antique brass tapware and accessories to create a look that’s both modern, relaxed and intentional.
Modern Australian
Modern Australian bathrooms are all about a eucalyptus-inspired colour palette. Our Modern Australian Style Sample Pack is a gold mine for inspiration — from green kit kats and large-scale ivory travertine look tiles to brushed brass tapware. Pair with light oak wood, neutral textiles and dried botanicals to cap off the look.
Modern bathware ideas
Forget the builder-grade fixtures — your bathroom deserves better. Explore bathware, tapware and accessory ideas to tie your modern bathroom together.
Floating vanities
Floating vanities create a clean and modern look, making the bathroom feel more spacious. Opt for vanities with clean lines and add minimalist hardware in chrome, brushed nickel or matte black. V-groove vanities hit all the style points for modern bathrooms — clean lines, simple design and hidden storage.
Quality tapware
Modern tapware is all about form and function. Our Yabby tapware range has this down; our taps, spouts and showers are designed to suit any style, but look particularly good in modern bathrooms. They come in cool-toned finishes like chrome, matte black or gunmetal. Plus, they're built to last, so you won't be replacing them anytime soon.
Sleek accessories
Don’t sleep on the accessories — a good door handle goes a long way in a bathroom. We reiterate: modern bathrooms are all about clean lines. Think sleek instead of fussy — well-designed glass hardware and accessories are key. They sit neatly on your beautiful tile or shower glass without being distracting. The fewer bits and pieces in your bathroom, the more modern and spacious it will feel.
Bringing modern design home
From black-and-white bathrooms to a touch of Australiana, there's a lot of inspiration here to spark your creativity. Think of this as your launching pad for a modern bathroom that looks great without sacrificing functionality. So play around with the ideas you saw here and pick the bits that you love.
Looking for more inspiration? Browse our huge range of tiles, tapware and bathware online or visit us at our Sydney showroom to see them in person.
Layla Sawyer
Layla is a creative at heart, with an Advanced Diploma in Interior Design and being the Senior Marketing and Ecommerce Coordinator here at TileCloud she has a passion for staying up to date with the latest trends within the industry. Known for going down a rabbit hole on Pinterest and being a sucker for a good mood board to kick off any project.