Because a beautiful bathroom should be just as easy to live in as it is to look at.
When it comes to designing or renovating a bathroom, it's easy to get caught up in the aesthetics. Beautiful tile, statement fixtures, and spa-inspired finishes can completely transform a space. But one thing I always encourage homeowners to think about is how those design decisions will actually function in everyday life.
Some of the most beautiful bathrooms I've seen incorporate materials and finishes that require a surprising amount of upkeep. And while there's certainly a time and place for a statement-making design, I believe the best spaces strike a balance between beauty, functionality, and longevity.
Whether you're planning a renovation, building a custom home, or simply gathering inspiration for a future project, here are eight bathroom design choices worth thinking twice about.
1. Vessel Sinks
Vessel sinks can make a beautiful statement, particularly in a powder bathroom where you're looking to create something a little more unique.
The downside? They introduce additional surfaces and seams that need regular cleaning, particularly where the sink meets the countertop.
My take: I love a statement sink in the right setting, but for a bathroom that gets daily use, an undermount sink is often the more practical choice. It's timeless, easy to maintain, and creates a seamless countertop surface.
2. Matte Black Fixtures
Matte black hardware has been incredibly popular over the last several years, and it's easy to understand why. It creates contrast and can give a bathroom a modern, sophisticated feel.
However, water spots, mineral deposits, and fingerprints can become particularly noticeable on darker finishes.
Here in Colorado, where hard water can be a concern depending on your home's water source and treatment system, this is something worth considering.
My take: Brushed nickel, champagne bronze, and other softly brushed finishes are some of my favorites. They bring warmth and character to a space while generally being more forgiving when it comes to everyday water spots.
3. Small-Format Tile with Light Grout
I absolutely love the character that smaller tile can bring to a bathroom. From intricate mosaics to classic penny tile, there are so many beautiful options.
But the smaller the tile, the more grout lines you're introducing. And grout is often the part of a shower or bathroom floor that requires the most maintenance.
My take: For shower walls, I'm a big fan of large-format porcelain tile. It creates a clean, elevated look while minimizing grout lines. If you love smaller-format tile, consider incorporating it as an accent rather than throughout the entire space.
4. Too Much Open Shelving
Open shelving can look beautiful in a professionally styled bathroom, but real life tends to involve a few more products, towels, and miscellaneous items than those perfectly curated photos suggest.
Bathrooms are naturally humid environments, which means exposed shelving and everything stored on it can collect dust and residue.
My take: Prioritize closed storage wherever possible. Thoughtfully designed vanity drawers, medicine cabinets, and built-in linen storage can make a tremendous difference in how a bathroom functions. A little open shelving for decorative elements is great, but I wouldn't sacrifice practical storage for it.
5. Dark Shower Tile
There's something undeniably dramatic about a dark, moody shower. Deep charcoal, black marble, and richly colored tile can create a beautiful, luxurious atmosphere.
The trade-off is that soap residue and mineral deposits often become more visible against darker surfaces.
My take: I wouldn't rule out dark tile entirely. I love incorporating moodier finishes into a bathroom, but material selection matters. Consider the finish, water quality, and how much maintenance you're comfortable with before committing to an entire dark-tiled shower.
6. Frameless Glass Shower Enclosures
Frameless glass showers are one design feature I continue to love. They make bathrooms feel larger, allow beautiful tilework to shine, and create a clean, sophisticated look.
The catch? Glass shows water spots, streaks, and soap buildup.
My take: This is one of those design choices where I personally think the aesthetic payoff can be worth the extra maintenance. If you're incorporating glass, consider a protective glass coating and make sure the enclosure is designed without unnecessary tracks or hard-to-reach areas.
7. Freestanding Bathtubs
A beautiful soaking tub can be the centerpiece of a primary bathroom. It's a feature that immediately creates that spa-like feeling so many homeowners are looking for.
But placement is everything.
A freestanding tub positioned too close to a wall can create an awkward gap that's nearly impossible to clean.
My take: If you have the space, a freestanding tub can be a fantastic design feature. Just make sure there's adequate clearance around it. If space is limited, a thoughtfully designed built-in tub can be every bit as beautiful and often more functional.
8. Highly Textured Surfaces
Fluted tile, decorative wall treatments, and textured finishes can add incredible depth and character to a bathroom.
However, grooves and uneven surfaces can also collect dust, moisture, and soap residue, particularly in wet areas.
My take: I love texture and think it's an important part of creating a layered, interesting space. The key is being intentional about where you use it. Consider incorporating textured finishes on an accent wall or in a powder bathroom rather than directly inside a shower.
The Bottom Line: Good Design Goes Beyond Looks
One of the things I've learned through working in real estate and being involved in new construction and finish selections is that the smallest design decisions can have a significant impact on how a home feels and functions over time.
I don't believe every finish needs to be selected purely for practicality. Sometimes the beautiful soaking tub, dramatic tile, or statement fixture is absolutely worth it.
But I do believe in understanding the trade-offs before making those decisions.
Whether you're renovating your current home or building something from the ground up, the goal should be to create spaces that not only photograph beautifully but are equally enjoyable to live in.
And if you're thinking about making updates to your home, I'm always happy to share insight into which improvements are worth the investment, both for your everyday enjoyment and potential resale value.
Emily Breaker | Guide Real Estate
Serving Golden, Denver, and the surrounding foothills communities.
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