No Curtains Or Screens: The Invisible Shower Trend That's Taking Over Bathrooms

If you've read even one ultimate guide to minimalist decor, you'll know that sometimes, less is more. But that doesn't mean you can't still make a big statement. Take the splash Kim Kardashian made when she unveiled the sleek, sparse bathroom in her Hidden Hills, California home. Though the focus of the Instagram post was the reality star snapping a mirror selfie, followers were quick to point out the invisible shower in the background. It turns out that you can try a chic, spa-inspired bathroom design instead of a bathtub curtain: the wet room. With no vertical barriers or shower pan on the floor, the wet room is part of a larger trend toward streamlined, clutter-free spaces.

The goal of the so-called invisible bathroom is not just to hide away the clutter of toiletries and other items, but also to conceal hardware, plumbing fixtures, and really anything that might interrupt the eye. The result is a streamlined, elevated bathroom that resembles a luxe hotel room or a spa more than a place you simply go to get clean. Without stuff scattered everywhere, you can focus the design on the elements worth highlighting — in Kim Kardashian's case, a frameless, glass-walled shower. Plus, without any visual barriers, the bathroom is filled with light, contributing to the overall tranquil feel. Of course, having enough storage to maintain a spartan aesthetic helps as well.

If you decide to recreate the Skims mogul's design in your own bathroom, know that you're signing up for extra maintenance. After all, wet rooms are notoriously hard to clean, even if they look really cool, and are naturally clutter-free. You'll also need enough square footage to comfortably achieve the look. If your bathroom is on the smaller side, you might want to opt for a walk-in shower, which also eliminates the need for a curtain. Pair frameless glass shower walls with a minimalist shower tray to let in more light, creating an open, airy vibe.

Going full wet room isn't the only way to dip into the minimalist bathroom trend. For the cleanest sight lines, install large-format tiling on the floor and continue it up the walls. A monochromatic look — particularly in neutrals like white, cream, and gray — can also make your bathroom feel calmer and more spacious.

If a big bathroom renovation isn't in your budget, even small tweaks can make a difference. Swapping a standard vanity for a floating one leaves more of the floor visible and creates a minimalist aesthetic. Similarly, ditching handles and knobs on your drawers and cabinetry can look cleaner, as can opting for wall-mounted shower valves and sink taps that keep much of the plumbing hidden. Even if it's not possible to change out tiling, flooring, and other big-ticket items, coordinated hardware and other accessories can create cohesiveness.