Minimalism is becoming an increasing trend in the interior design industry, and for all the right reasons. In the USA, 10% of people follow a minimalistic lifestyle, and 23% of them say they would want to embrace the trend. It’s clear to see why. Minimalism focuses on reducing clutter and embracing simplicity. This philosophy is particularly applicable in bathrooms, where miscellaneous toiletries and cosmetics often lead to a cluttered environment. Interestingly, the inclination towards minimalism is especially prevalent among the 35 to 54 age group. And it’s evident that regional demographics significantly influence this growing trend.
Consider Kansas as an example. With its median age being 35 years, there’s a pronounced interest in minimalist design. Wichita, a city in Kansas, showcases this trend vividly. The city’s youthful vibe is underlined by its median age of 33.9 years. This age group leans towards minimalism for various reasons. They appreciate the sense of openness and function over ornate designs. Moreover, the appeal of minimalism also lies in its simplicity—a minimalist bathroom requires less maintenance and is easier to clean. With the right guidance from an experienced contractor, any homeowner can convert their bathroom into an oasis of relaxation and simplicity.
How to Choose the Right Contractor?
Look for someone experienced in minimalist design with a portfolio of relevant projects. They will understand the nuances of working with neutral colors and creating seamless open spaces. An important factor to consider is cost; for instance, in Wichita, the average cost for bathroom remodeling, as per various sources, stands around $10,689.
A seasoned Wichita bathroom remodeling contractor would be well aware of this ballpark figure and would aim to offer competitive pricing without compromising on quality. Such insights are crucial when considering a renovation, especially in terms of budgeting.
What is Minimalism in Bathroom Design?
Minimalism is centered around the idea of simplicity. The focus is on open space and functional essentials. A minimalist bathroom typically has plain white walls and minimal décor with sleek fittings. The overall look is airy and uncluttered.
Instead of decorative elements, the emphasis is on high-quality materials with purposeful design. Every item serves a function, and there is no clutter or visual noise. Now that you have a full understanding of what minimalistic design is let’s get down to ideas you can incorporate.
Ideas for a Minimalist Bathroom Remodel
Here are some ideas to incorporate into your minimalist bathroom remodel:
1. Use Neutral Tones
When designing a minimalist bathroom, stick to neutral wall colors and avoid bold colors that might feel overwhelming in a small space. Neutral tones make the bathroom feel airy and soothing.
Choose shades like soft white, warm greige, light gray, or pale beige. Crisp white, in particular, can make the space feel bright and clean. However, all whites can also feel sterile. So, consider adding some gentle color on one accent wall. Neutral colors make the perfect blank canvas for you to add pops of color with smaller decor items like towels, flowers, or artwork.
2. Integrate Multipurpose Furnishings
Look for bathroom furnishings that serve multiple purposes, as they allow you to maximize functionality while minimizing visual clutter. For example, consider a vanity that doubles up as a dressing table for getting ready or install a built-in bathtub that also works as a seat or ledge for placing decor items.
Floating open shelving is great for keeping towels and toiletries accessible but out of the way, and a medicine cabinet with mirrors amplifies the sense of light and space. To make the room feel larger than it is, take help from a mirror. The reflection will give that illusion. Other multifunctional furnishings like storage ottomans and convertible furniture also help reduce clutter.
3. Use Glass Partitions
Installing glass partitions is a great way to make a small bathroom feel more open and airy. It’s also easy to keep clean and hygienic.
Frameless glass shower enclosures maintain visibility while separating the wet and dry areas. Using transparent glass, as opposed to shower curtains, makes the room feel more expansive. For privacy, you can opt for textured or tinted glass. They allow the natural light to filter through while obscuring views. The glass partitions also create an illusion of more space since you can see through to the other areas of the bathroom.
4. Install Wall-Hung Toilets
Wall-hung or floating toilets enhance space and easy cleaning in a minimalist bathroom. Invest in a toilet tank inside the wall, as it creates a streamlined look. And get rid of the bulky porcelain tank behind the bowl. Wall-hung toilets lend a contemporary and minimalist vibe, giving your toilet a lighter, airier appearance.
Floating toilets seem to occupy less visual space. They also make cleaning the floor around and behind the toilet much easier, and fewer crevices mean there are lesser chances of dirt buildup. Just ensure the wall framing is strong enough to take the weight.
5. Choose the Right Materials
The materials you choose can make a big impact on the minimalist aesthetic. Natural materials like stone or wood help create a sense of warmth and earthiness. However, the materials should have a stripped-down, minimalist look.
For example, opt for marble slabs without much veining or concrete with muted, mono-tone mottling. Metallic accents and hardware in black, brass, or chrome also fit well with the pared-down style.
Avoid ornate materials like heavily veined stone, glossy tiles, or marble with bold patterns—simple, tactile, raw materials align with minimalist principles.
6. Remove Clutter
Decluttering is essential to create a minimalist look. Store away non-essential decorative objects like candles, trinkets, magazine racks, artificial flowers, etc., and maintain clear counters for a cleaner look.
Limit accessories to a few carefully chosen items like a small plant or wall art. You can also use a decorative tray or baskets to store your essentials but don’t clutter surfaces with random things.
7. Let in Natural Light
Lighting makes any bathroom feel open and airy. Invest in larger windows or skylights for abundant natural daylight to enter the space. Artificial lighting alone can feel harsh. However, the soft glow of natural light makes the space more inviting.
Conclusion
Creating a minimalist bathroom requires thoughtful planning and expert execution. The result is a soothing, tranquil space perfect for relaxation. If you want a bathroom that is not just pleasing to look at but also highly functional, ensure to use multifunctional elements with high-quality materials. Then, hire an experienced contractor to actualize your vision. With these tips and ideas, you can make your dream minimalist bathroom.
