A renewed place for the bath
A bath can be more than a practical feature: it can set the mood for the whole room. In the Houzz 2026 UK Bathroom Trends Study, 58% of bathroom renovators said they were adding or replacing a bath. It’s a clear sign that, for many households, a proper place to unwind still matters.
A freestanding bath makes an eye-catching centrepiece where there’s room to appreciate it from every angle. In a smaller bathroom, an alcove or built-in bath can be a better use of space, with opportunities to add useful ledges or concealed storage. The right choice is the one that suits your room, your routine and the way you want to feel in it.
Before falling for a particular shape, measure the room and map out doors, windows, storage and shower access. Leave comfortable space around the bath where possible, and check how the proposed position will work with plumbing and cleaning. A beautiful bath should feel inviting, not like an obstacle.
Make a bold accent feel at home
Colour is another way to give a bathroom personality. The study found 36% were introducing an accent wall in a bold colour. A strong shade can bring depth and character to a room, whether it sits behind the bath, frames a vanity or adds impact within a shower area.
You don’t have to colour every wall to make a statement. Pairing one expressive surface with quieter finishes can help the room feel balanced and timeless. Consider how the colour looks in both daylight and evening light, and make sure your chosen finish is suitable for the conditions where it will be used. Tile, paint and other wall treatments each have different care and installation requirements.
Plan the practical details early
A bathroom has to work hard every day, so the best designs bring inspiration and function together. Think about who uses the space, whether a shower is also needed, where towels and toiletries will go, and how you’ll keep the room comfortable and well ventilated. These decisions help you prioritise the details that matter before choosing finishes.
Professional support can help turn ideas into a workable plan. In the study, 88% were hiring a professional. A suitably experienced professional can advise on layout, installation and coordination, and help identify practical considerations before work begins. Be clear about your priorities, ask what is included in the quote, and confirm who is responsible for each part of the project.
Your practical takeaway
Start with three things: measure your room, decide how you want to use the bath, and set a realistic budget for the whole renovation, not just the statement pieces. Then gather samples and discuss the layout with a professional before committing to purchases. A considered plan gives you more confidence to choose a bath and a splash of colour that feel personal while still working beautifully day to day.
For more ideas and expert advice to help shape your home, explore Improve Magazine.
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