Modern Bathroom Furniture Ideas: Our Guide
From vanity units to showers, our bathroom furniture ideas cover all the bits and pieces that make your bathroom tick.
Bathroom furniture affects both style and function. A well-designed vanity unit keeps clutter away, while a smart shower setup improves daily routines.
Homes in the UK often have small bathrooms, so choosing space-saving pieces makes a big difference.
The right furniture can make a room feel more open or cosy, depending on the layout and materials.
Making smart furniture choices and updating your bathroom in general can help increase the value of your home by up to 5%, according to The Property Centre.
This article explores modern bathroom furniture, combining sleek designs with practical storage ideas.
Showers that stand out
Showers play a key role in modern bathroom design. A walk-in shower with clear glass panels prevents the space from feeling cramped.
- Matte black frames contrast well against lighter walls, a popular choice in the UK.
- A cubicle with sliding doors saves floor space compared to a traditional hinged door.
- A wet room setup removes the need for a shower tray, directing water to a floor drain – this layout works best in larger bathrooms, creating a sleek, open-plan effect.
Pairing a wet room with a rainfall showerhead adds a spa-like element. Tile colours such as soft green or deep navy complete the design.
Sleek vanity units for a modern look
Vanity units form the centrepiece of modern bathrooms. A built-in basin with storage below keeps essentials organised.
- Wall-mounted cabinets with glossy white or matte grey finishes create a fresh, open feel.
- Raised units add to the sense of space, making them ideal for compact bathrooms.
- A round mirror or LED lighting enhances the contemporary style.
- A double vanity works well for couples or families needing extra counter space.
Slimline furniture with deep drawers offers practical storage without taking up too much room. Choosing soft blue or charcoal shades influences the overall mood of the space.
Toilets with a contemporary twist
Modern bathroom furniture includes stylish and practical toilet designs. Wall-hung toilets free up floor space and make cleaning easier.
- A concealed cistern with a brushed nickel flush plate adds to the minimalist look.
- While white remains a classic choice, some brands offer grey or black finishes for a bolder appearance.
- Back-to-wall toilets sit flush against the wall, keeping the overall design clean and simple. This option allows other furniture elements to stand out.
A consistent colour scheme ties the bathroom together, letting wall colours or tiles take centre stage. Keeping finishes simple ensures a timeless look. Find out more with our guide on bathroom colour ideas for all tastes and preferences.
Shelving and wall units for extra space
Wall-mounted shelves offer extra storage without taking up floor space. Wooden or metal shelves provide a place for plants, soaps, or rolled towels, adding a decorative touch.
- Keeping shelves lightly stocked maintains a modern feel.
- A white or pastel finish blends seamlessly with most walls, while a darker colour creates contrast.
- Slim wall cabinets with sliding doors store smaller items like shampoo or razors.
- Frosted glass fronts maintain a sleek look while keeping contents out of sight.
Position cabinets near the basin or bath ensures convenience. Choose finishes that match the vanity or shower frame to create a unified design.
Clever bathroom storage ideas
Smart storage solutions prevent bathrooms from becoming cluttered. Tall cabinets make the most of vertical space, ideal for narrow rooms.
- Mirrored doors serve a dual purpose by adding a reflective surface.
- Neutral colours like beige or oak create a subtle effect, while deeper tones like teal add character.
- Under-sink storage maximises space in vanity units.
- Pull-out trays or slim shelves help organise toiletries and towels.
Curved units fit neatly into awkward corners, ensuring no space goes to waste. Match storage solutions to daily habits keeps essentials accessible and neatly arranged – here are some cloakroom storage ideas.
Mixing materials and colours
Modern bathroom furniture often combines different materials for texture and contrast.
Oak or walnut vanity units add warmth, while glossy acrylic finishes create a sleek effect.
- Metal accents, such as brass taps or steel shelves, introduce a contemporary edge.
- Wooden units stand out against dark green walls, while white furniture pairs well with grey backdrops.
- Colour choices help set the mood. Soft blues and earthy tones create a calm atmosphere, ideal for unwinding after a long day.
Bolder shades like mustard or slate grey add energy to a morning routine. Testing colour samples under different lighting conditions ensures the best result.
Small bathroom furniture ideas
Compact bathrooms benefit from smart furniture choices. A corner vanity with a shallow basin saves space while still providing storage.
- Pairing a compact toilet with a slim shower cubicle helps maximise the available area.
- A large mirror above the sink reflects light, making the room feel more spacious.
- Wall units above the toilet provide extra storage for towels and toiletries.
- A folding shower screen saves space when not in use.
Measuring the room carefully ensures each piece fits without overcrowding. Prioritising essential features creates a functional and comfortable layout.
Final thoughts: Bathroom furniture ideas
Walk-in showers with clear glass panels, matte black frames, or wet room layouts create an open feel.
Vanity units with built-in storage, slimline designs, and bold colour choices enhance modern aesthetics. Wall-hung or back-to-wall toilets contribute to a minimalist look, while shelving and wall cabinets add storage without taking up floor space.
Smart storage solutions like tall cabinets, pull-out trays, and under-sink shelves keep bathrooms tidy. Mixing materials such as wood, metal, and acrylic introduces texture and contrast.
Thoughtful furniture choices, including compact vanities and folding shower screens, help small bathrooms feel more spacious and functional.
We hope this guide has helped you think about some modern bathroom furniture choices, no matter how much space you have to play with.
For other articles, take a look at our full blog, with articles including:
- Replacing a bath with a shower
- Wet room ideas for the disabled
- Shower room ideas to inspire you
- Bathroom ventilation guide
Ability Bathe are bathroom fitters Devon, Exeter, Plymouth and surrounding areas trust, with more than 35 years of experience. We provide a 10 year guarantee on new bathrooms.
We specialise in excellent walk-in showers Devon and our South-West customers love. For more information, please contact us.
