Major Bathroom Design Changes Are Coming: This Popular Trend Is Ending In 2026

There's no denying that wet rooms have had a major moment over the last few years, thanks to the sleek, luxurious feel they can bring to a bathroom. And while they certainly do come with their benefits — they're more accessible to people with disabilities, for one, and they've also been proven to maximize space in small bathrooms — a lot of people will be veering away from the statement-making style in 2026. And it's probably for the best. 

Similar to the idea of a walk-in shower, wet rooms are essentially a type of bathroom layout where the shower area is completely open to the rest of the room. Rather than having a traditional shower enclosure and tray, the flooring continues seamlessly throughout the space and slopes slightly toward a central drain. The design has been incredibly popular in modern, minimalist, and spa-like bathrooms, but it's not always practical for everyday life. 

Because the entire room gets damp, it can be difficult to keep things like towels, clothing, and even toilet paper dry. And without proper ventilation, mold and mildew can become a concern. Beyond that, it could actually lower the value of your home because it feels more unconventional than a traditional shower and tub setup. Wet rooms can also make the space feel colder and less inviting being fully open, since there's no enclosed area that holds in the steam and warmth. And as 2026 brings a shift toward bathroom designs that prioritize comfort, warmth, and coziness, the streamlined look of the wet room will likely get left behind. 

If you're planning a bathroom renovation or redesign and want to lean into the cozy, warm, and inviting vibe that will be everywhere next year, there are plenty of ways to do it. One major resurgence we'll be seeing is the return of soaking tubs — a feature that definitely took a backseat during the wet room trend. And because comfort is key in 2026, adding a soaker tub to your bathroom feels like a no-brainer. Spa-inspired bathrooms are also still very much on the rise — Zillow's Home Trends Report found that searches for spa-style bathrooms have increased by 22% — meaning people will decorate the area around the tub with things like bath racks, essential oils, plants, and candles for the ultimate self-care setup. You can also get a spa-like feel in your bathroom by hanging eucalyptus in the shower. 

Another way to embrace a warmer bathroom aesthetic is by introducing natural materials — especially wood accents like woven baskets, open shelving, or even a wood ladder towel rack. Paneled walls are going to see a rise in popularity as well. And since darker woods, like walnut, teak, and dark oak, are trending for 2026, a paneled feature wall in one of those finishes could instantly make the space feel richer and more inviting. Finally, paint colors will also lean warmer. Think earthy colors like green, terracotta, beige, and brown — the latter of which is actually an unexpected bathroom shade that can boost your home's value.