Bathroom Design Secrets: What 10,000+ Followers Taught Us
Embarking on a bathroom remodel can feel overwhelming. With so many choices, it’s easy to get lost! That’s why we turned to our community for help. We polled over 10,000 followers on various bathroom design decisions, and the results were eye-opening! We’re sharing these insights with you to help you make informed decisions for your own bathroom renovation.
Bathroom Design Dilemmas: Your Votes and Expert Advice
We asked our followers to weigh in on key bathroom design choices. Here’s what we learned, along with the top picks and the reasons behind them:
Image Credit: Lisa Staton Design | Cari Berg Interior Design
1. Double Sinks vs. Toilet Closet: Which is Better?
The Verdict:
- Double Sinks: 60%
- Toilet Closet: 40%
The Winner: Double Sinks!
Reader Insights:
“My husband and I are fine with the toilet being visible, but I need my own sink space in the morning. It’s a must-have!” – Ellen
“I don’t love seeing a toilet right when I walk into a nice bathroom. A toilet closet provides privacy and makes sharing the space easier.” – Jennifer
Takeaway: While a toilet closet offers privacy, the desire for individual sink space in the morning routine often wins out, particularly in master bathrooms.
Image Credit: Micasa Revista | Mandarina Studio
2. Tub/Shower Combo vs. Separate Shower: Which to Choose?
The Verdict:
- Tub/Shower Combo: 39%
- Shower Only: 61%
The Winner: Shower Only (No Tub)!
Reader Insights:
“We need a tub somewhere in the house, especially for the kids. However, I rarely take baths myself, so I don’t miss having one in the master bathroom.” – Joy
“If space is limited, definitely skip the tub. Combo units are a hassle to clean. Showers are less maintenance, and fewer people seem to take baths these days.” – Alex
“If you are aiming for luxury, definitely include a tub. A vintage clawfoot tub with a shower overhead adds charm.” – Becca
Takeaway: The preference for showers over bathtubs is significant. Showers offer convenience, and many homeowners don’t use a tub frequently. However, for those who love baths or have young children, a tub is still a valuable addition.
Image Credit: Jennifer Muirhead Interiors | Made by Carli
3. Large Shower vs. Double Sinks: What’s the Priority?
The Verdict:
- Large Shower: 39%
- Double Sinks: 61%
The Winner: Double Sinks!
Reader Insights:
“I had a large shower installed, thinking it would feel luxurious. But it’s cold, and I hate it. I’d rather have the extra sink space.” – Jackie
“I’ll happily share a sink if it means a beautiful, large shower! Plus, a large shower can boost resale value.” – Melissa
Takeaway: While large showers are desirable, double sinks are preferred for functionality. Many homeowners prioritize having their own space at the sink, especially in a shared bathroom.
Image Credit: Katie Martinez Design | Casey Keasler
4. Enclosed Shower Room vs. Glass or Open Shower: Which Style Wins?
The Verdict:
- Enclosed Shower Room: 52%
- Glass / Open Shower: 48%
The Winner: Enclosed Shower Room!
Reader Insights:
“Cleaning large glass shower doors is such a chore! Mine always look terrible.” – Tammy
“I stayed in a VRBO with a big open shower, and the water got everywhere. It felt cold and blah. I couldn’t wait to leave. I can see water damage being an issue.” – Bailey
“We installed an enclosed shower room, and I’ll never go back. It’s like showering in a warm, cozy blanket of steam. Love it!” – Lisa
Takeaway: Functionality and ease of cleaning are key. The enclosed shower room emerges as the preferred choice, offering better water containment and a cozier showering experience. Glass showers can be beautiful but require more maintenance.
Image Credit: 1st Dibs | Rosa Beltran Design
5. Large Shower vs. Linen Cabinet: Where to Invest Space?
The Verdict:
- Large Shower: 45%
- Linen Cabinet: 55%
The Winner: Linen Cabinet!
Reader Insights:
“Any time you can get MORE storage in a bathroom, just do it!” – Leah
“Large showers are a ridiculous waste of space. Storage is more important!” – Allie
“I’d FIGHT for a big shower. If I need both a vanity AND a linen closet, I have too much stuff and need to declutter. But I’m more of a minimalist, so maybe that’s not the norm.” – Crystal
Takeaway: Storage solutions win over expansive showers in this scenario. The practical need for storing towels, toiletries, and other bathroom essentials takes precedence.
Image Credit: Jean Stoffer Design | Atlanta Homes
6. Scalloped Backsplash vs. Sink Ledge Backsplash: Which is More Practical?
The Verdict:
- Scallop Backsplash: 27%
- Sink Ledge: 73%
The Winner: Sink Ledge Backsplash!
Reader Insights:
“I can see that sink ledge becoming a clutter collector. If it’s not there, my husband and I aren’t tempted to put stuff on it.” – Megan
“That scallop backsplash is gorgeous! But I think the ledge is more practical.” – Krista
Takeaway: Functionality, once again, is a major factor. While visually appealing, the sink ledge backsplash is chosen for its practicality and ability to create a cleaner, less cluttered look.
Image Credit: Architectural Digest | Architectural Digest
7. Airy Bathroom vs. Moody Bathroom: What’s the Preferred Atmosphere?
The Verdict:
- Airy Bathroom: 92%
- Moody Bathroom: 8%
The Winner: Airy Bathroom!
Reader Insights:
“I want my bathroom to feel peaceful, and a lot of white feels peaceful.” – Emily
“White = spa.” – Carole
“Black would show dust eeeeeverywhere!!!!!!” – Annie
Takeaway: The overwhelming preference is for bright, airy bathrooms. Light colors, especially white, create a sense of calm and cleanliness. While moody bathrooms can be stylish, the majority favor a brighter, more open feel.
Image Credit: Sloane Studio Interiors | Marie Flanigan Interiors
8. Rug vs. No Rug: To Rug or Not to Rug?
The Verdict:
- Rug: 66%
- No Rug: 34%
The Winner: Rug!
Reader Insights:
“Why put down all that pretty tile just to cover it up with a rug?” – Mandi
“My mother slipped and fell on a bathroom rug once and broke her wrist. They’re a hazard!” – Audrey
“Vintage rugs in bathrooms!!! I love them!!!” – Caroline
“I always have a rug… it’s nice having something warm under your feet while you’re getting ready. And I have a bad back, so standing on a little extra cushion on a rug helps when I’m standing at the vanity doing makeup/hair.” – Vanessa
“Heated floors!!!” – Cindy
Takeaway: While safety is a concern, the majority choose to include a rug. Rugs add warmth, comfort, and style to the bathroom. The ability to stand on something soft while getting ready seems to be a major advantage.
Image Credit: Kate Marker Interiors
9. Sconce Vanity Lights vs. Pendant Vanity Lights: Which Lighting Style is Best?
The Verdict:
- Sconce Lights: 58%
- Pendant Lights: 42%
The Winner: Sconce Lights!
Reader Insights:
“When I’m putting on makeup, I want light hitting my face from both sides instead of up above. Overhead lights create weird shadows and I can’t see what I’m doing as well.” – Miranda
“I think it depends on if you want modern or traditional. Pendants seem more funky and sconces are nice but more ‘expected’.” – Paige
Takeaway: Sconce lights are preferred for their ability to provide even illumination for tasks like applying makeup. This placement minimizes shadows and provides a more functional lighting experience.
Image Credit: Jenni Kayne | My Domaine
10. Brass Fixtures vs. Black Fixtures: What’s the Favorite Finish?
The Verdict:
- Brass Fixtures: 46%
- Black Fixtures: 54%
The Winner: Black Fixtures!
Reader Insights:
“Neither! Where’s the brushed nickel?” – Lindsay
“We have black fixtures, and apparently hard water… it makes me crazy that you can see white spots on the drain stopper in the sink and bathtub. Something to think about if you have hard water where you live.” – Lisa
“Black says farmhouse to me. Brass says traditional. Depends on the vibe.” – Tasha
“Brass adds a little warmth I think. Makes neutral not seem so cold.” – Reya
“Do both!” – Mary Beth
Takeaway: Black fixtures edge out brass, but the preference is fairly divided, highlighting the importance of personal style. The potential for water spots with black fixtures in hard water areas is worth considering.
Image Credit: HGTV | Country Living Magazine
11. Built-In Linen Cabinet vs. Freestanding Vintage Cabinet: Which Storage Option?
The Verdict:
- Built-In: 53%
- Freestanding Vintage: 47%
The Winner: Built-In Linen Cabinet!
Reader Insights:
“Ohhhhh that’s hard! Only thing I can say is vintage furniture can smell weird sometimes. I don’t want my towels smelling old and musty.” – Tracy
“The built-in seems more practical. I worry what the humidity in a bathroom could do to a vintage piece of furniture. It’s beautiful though.” – Makenzie
Takeaway: Functionality and practicality lead to the built-in cabinet. The concern about humidity affecting vintage furniture is a factor in this decision.
Image Credit: Interior Blooms Design Co. | Amber Interiors
12. Color vs. Neutral: What Tile Palette is Best?
The Verdict:
- Color: 35%
- Neutral: 65%
The Winner: Neutral!
Reader Insights:
“Neutral is more timeless. You’d be less likely to regret it later.” – Kirsten
“I looooove that green! Depends on your personality. If you’re a bright, colorful person, have a bright, colorful bathroom.” – Amber
Takeaway: Neutral tile reigns supreme. A neutral palette is timeless, versatile, and less likely to feel dated over time. However, personal preference should always guide the final decision.
Image Credit: Apartment Therapy | Architectural Digest
13. One Large Mirror vs. Double Mirrors: Which Mirror Style is Preferred?
The Verdict:
- One Large Mirror: 42%
- Double Mirrors: 58%
The Winner: Double Mirrors!
Reader Insights:
“Large mirrors seem builder grade-ish.” – Myra
“Large mirror makes the room feel bigger.” – Tammy
Takeaway: Double mirrors are slightly favored. This preference may be due to the perception of a more custom or upscale look, offering individual space for each user.
Image Credit: House Beautiful | The Lifestyled Co
14. Patterned Tile Floor vs. Simple Tile Floor: What’s the Floor Favorite?
The Verdict:
- Patterned Tile: 41%
- Simple Tile: 59%
The Winner: Simple Tile!
Reader Insights:
“Patterned tile can date a bathroom really fast. I’m already looking at patterned tile these days and thinking, ‘That’s very 2015.'” – Sean
“I just like big tile because it’s fewer grout lines to clean.” – Alisha
“Patterned helps hide dirt.” – Sharon
Takeaway: The preference leans towards simple tile. Simplicity offers a timeless look, and the fewer grout lines of larger tiles are desirable for easier cleaning and maintenance.
Image Credit: Studio McGee | Studio McGee
15. Wall Tile vs. Wall Millwork: Which Wall Treatment Wins?
The Verdict:
- Wall Tile: 58%
- Wall Millwork: 42%
The Winner: Wall Tile!
Reader Insights:
“Wall tile is so much easier to keep clean and fresh looking.” – Megan
“Millwork would probably be less expensive if budget is a concern. But still pretty!” – Michelle
Takeaway: Wall tile is the clear preference. Its ease of cleaning and maintenance outweighs the visual appeal of millwork for most.
Image Credit: Chris Loves Julia | Studio McGee
16. Wood Vanity vs. Painted Vanity: What’s the Vanity Choice?
The Verdict:
- Wood Vanity: 39%
- Painted Vanity: 61%
The Winner: Painted Vanity!
Reader Insights:
“I knew wood cabinets would make a comeback one day. Seems like it’s happening a lot more lately, especially vanities that look more like furniture.” – Sarah
“I just voted painted because that blue is amazing!” – Jen
“Ohh both are so beautiful don’t make us choose!!” – Vanessa
Takeaway: Painted vanities are the favored choice. They offer a fresh look, the opportunity to introduce color, and a more versatile design element.
What are your thoughts? If you’ve been through a bathroom renovation, share your experiences in the comments! And remember, the fun part is selecting the final finishes!
We hope this information has been helpful and inspires you during your bathroom remodel. Happy renovating!
