Key features can transform a master bath to a private retreat.
Story by Tracy Dickinson
Featured in Autumn 2025
There’s a reason master bath remodels are one of the most popular projects for homeowners. No space is more personal, and nothing can make you love your home as much as transforming that outdated bath into your own private retreat.
A look at new construction trends reveals the features that have the most appeal right now: freestanding tubs, natural materials, and luxury touches.
But Maria Bramer of The Kitchen & Bath Company says that doesn’t need to dictate your design. “It seems like homeowners are really customizing their master baths to reflect their own preferences. There’s no single trend that’s dominating designs these days.”
That means whatever speaks to you is the perfect choice.
The features you want
More new homes are incorporating luxury features in the master bath, including heated floors, rainfall showerheads, and even wet rooms.
“Wet rooms are a luxurious feature if you have the space,” Bramer says. “With a wet room, the shower is very large with a free-standing tub in the same area and all of it closed off with glass so that it’s a separate room from the vanity area.”
Although bathtubs had been waning in popularity, more homeowners are including them in the master bath.
Woodharbor’s Jammie Pekarek says, “Whirlpool tubs are definitely out. They’re being replaced by soaking tubs, which take up less space. This allows room for a larger walk-in shower, which feels more like a spa.”
“Painted cabinets and light stains are a big hit right now, especially with quartz countertops.”
Jammie Pekarek, Woodharbor
In addition to heated floors and towel racks or warming drawers, more master suites are boasting tech features that enhance that comfort even further. Other options include SMART controls for the shower, lighting, and heating, plus Bluetooth speakers in the shower.
For smaller spaces, open-style showers with more glass and a floating vanity rather than a built-in cabinet can create a sense of spaciousness as well as luxury.
Bramer says key changes like this can make a huge difference. “Eliminating the corner tub and replacing it with a larger shower and a vanity with more storage not only updates the look but adds functionality, too. I always start with one must-have, whatever that is for the individual client, and build off that to create the space the homeowner really wants.”
The finishes you love
To create that private retreat, both Pekarek and Bramer recommend choosing a neutral color scheme.
“Keeping the finishes soft and light helps create that spalike space,” Bramer says. “Soft neutrals, like an off-white or taupe, for painted cabinetry and trim works well or a natural finish with a light stain.” Materials like bamboo, stone, even repurposed woods and recycled glass add subtle texture while maintaining the neutral tone.
“Painted cabinets and light stains are a big hit right now,” Pekarek says, “especially with quartz countertops. And champagne bronze adds a warm touch for the fixtures.”
Bramer also recommends opting for a sleeker cabinet style to enhance the modern spa look.
Choosing a larger or mixed tile pattern for the shower can add interest without dominating the space. And selecting a subtle grout color rather than a contrasting one or even opting for a seamless surface material will help maintain the clean lines associated with spalike designs.
The style that’s you
Some trends such as cultured marble and bold color schemes may be out, but your master bath should still reflect your personal style.
Bramer says, “You can’t go wrong investing in better materials for this space, whether it’s for a resell down the road or for your own comfort now. For example, quartz for countertops and for the shower is beautiful and durable and needs much less maintenance.”
And even if contemporary designs are not your style, incorporating clean lines and integrated storage space will give you a timeless backdrop for your individual look.
“Fun lighting and wallpaper are both making a comeback,” Bramer says. “Those little details are a great way to bring a design to life and customize the space.”
Putting as much thought into the hardware, the finishes, and the accents as you do for the larger fixtures will ensure that every element of your personal space truly reflects your unique style. After all, it might be your private retreat, but it should still be a space you’re proud to call yours. •
Resources
- Maria Bramer Kitchen & Bath Company
- Jammie Pekarek Woodharbor
