Popular Bathroom Trends 2011

Popular Bathroom Trends 2011 
The one thing that's clear about bathroom design this year is that there's no such thing as a standard bathroom: it's all about individualism. The top bathroom companies have unveiled stunning new 2011 ranges, but it's up to the creative homeowner to mix and match and put together a bathroom that's both unique and very personal.

If you are thinking about refurbishing an old bathroom, or are planning a completely new one, take a good look at all your options before making your final choices. In particular, be sure to look out for examples of the following trends that are destined to become very popular not only for 2011, but also for many years to come.

Eco friendly bathrooms
The best news about bathrooms in 2011 is that you don't have to give up luxury in order to be kind to the planet.

Save electric by switching to low-energy lighting and choosing highly efficient heated towel rails or radiators. Save water by installing a dual flush toilet, taps with built-in sensors that only deliver water when it's needed, and an aerating showerhead that allows you to enjoy an invigorating shower with a fraction of the water used in a conventional shower.

Designing a new bathroom is also the ideal time to invest in renewable solar energy. Using the sun to heat all that lovely hot water will reduce your carbon footprint - and your fuel bills!

Natural materials
Real wood, stone, bamboo, jute and all kinds of other natural materials are strongly featured in today's bathroom fittings and décor. If you've always wanted a free standing wooden bathtub, basins carved from solid crystal, or beautiful marble walls, the only problem will be choosing from all the available products.

Versatile lighting
Forget making do with a single - and usually inadequate - light in the centre of the ceiling. The 2011 bathroom allows you to adjust the lighting according to your needs and moods: good, clear lights shining out from mirrors and illuminating vanity units so you can see what you're doing, coloured LED lights for a soft glow when you want to relax, concealed lighting, statement sculptural light fittings, and windows, skylights or reflective surfaces that make the most of natural daylight.

Strong colour
White and neutral shades are still popular for bathrooms, but there's a growing trend to add a splash of strong, contrasting colour. Kingfisher, plum, forest green or burnt orange can be overpowering if used on every surface, but they can give an otherwise unremarkable room that wow factor when used to emphasize a feature or act as a focal point. For an up-to-the-minute look consider the difference a single stripe of scarlet glass tiles, purple bath panels, or royal blue storage cubes would make.

The main trend in 2011 bathroom design is to combine imagination, modern technology and some clever plumbing to achieve something amazing. To ensure your dreams don't turn into a nightmare seek expert advice on the technical aspects of your plans, and if you want a professional finish be sure to use well qualified and experienced craftsmen.