When you're splurging on a new bathroom renovation, you definitely want to get your money's worth — and the latest trend report from Houzz shows just how homeowners are prioritising their budgets for a better bathroom experience. The big takeaway? Half of the renovators are spending more time in their bathrooms, and they're adding in features that make them the perfect space to relax and enjoy.

Super-sized showers and vanities

Bigger is apparently better when it comes to bathroom details. While 82% of renovators keep the same footprint for their bathroom, they're going bigger for their showers and vanities. Nearly half of homeowners expand the size of their showers, and the majority opt for vanities that are over six feet long. Paired with those super-sized vanities is a massive increase in the number of people installing double sinks to take advantage of that extra real estate. These grand vanities are also stocked with all kinds of upgrades, like built-in outlets and organisers to make self-care routines easier to follow. Where do they find the space for these new features? About a quarter of homeowners remove the bathtub.

Accessibility meets aesthetics

Wet rooms, a top bathroom renovation trend from last year, are up again this year — with people opting for them for their accessibility, better use of space, and ease of cleaning. And yes, they're gorgeous, too. Another popular aesthetic choice that makes the room more accessible: opting for a low-curb or curbless shower. Most new showers are built to make it easier than ever to pop in. These designs remove barriers, making the bathroom safer and more convenient for people of all ages and mobility levels, while still looking sleek and modern.

Self-care details

Yes, 2026 may be the year of self-care, and that's definitely been reflected in how people are renovating their bathrooms. Upgraded lighting is the most popular pick, whether it involves redesigning the space to let in more natural light or choosing a mirror that changes the light's colour and temperature to create the perfect mood. If there's a bathtub, spa baths or soaking tubs have become the most common pick, while luxe additions like fountains or water walls make the bathroom feel more like a posh spa. About 14% of new bathroom renovations featured a special water feature. And a few lucky folks have added in steam showers, saunas, or aromatherapy to really help turn their bathroom into a relaxing space.

Calming colours

When it comes to decorating their bathrooms, accent walls are still king — but instead of just relying on colour, patterns are now adding the wow factor. But the most popular bathroom hues still come as no surprise, especially if you want a calming, spa-like vibe — blue, white, and creamy off-white. And millennial grey continues to fall out of favour, dropping five points, while beige has increased in its place. Homeowners are moving away from cool, sterile tones and toward warmer, more inviting palettes that make the bathroom feel like a retreat rather than just a utility space.

The bottom line

The 2026 bathroom is less about function alone and more about creating a personal sanctuary. Homeowners are investing in larger showers and vanities, accessible designs like wet rooms and curbless showers, self-care features such as upgraded lighting and spa-inspired tubs, and calming colour palettes. The trend is clear: comfort and luxury are no longer extras — they're central to how people want their bathrooms to feel. Whether you're planning a full renovation or a smaller refresh, these ideas show where homeowners are choosing to spend — and why it's worth it.