How to Design a Bathroom That Won’t Look Dated in 5 Years

Renovating Your Bathroom? Here’s How to Get It Right.

A bathroom renovation is one of the best investments you can make in your home. But if you’re not careful, it’s also one of the easiest places to fall into trendy traps that look great today but feel outdated in just a few years. (Remember vessel sinks? Yeah, those didn’t age well.)

At MTL Contractors, we design and build high-end, custom bathrooms that balance timeless style with modern function. Whether it’s a sleek primary ensuite, a smart small-space powder room, or a spa-like retreat, here’s how to design a bathroom renovation that stands the test of time.

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The Tile Dilemma: Trendy vs. Timeless

Tile is the biggest visual element in your bathroom, so getting it right is key. Here’s what to consider:

Best Tile Choices for a Long-Lasting Look

✔ Large-Format & Neutral Tones – Large tiles (24x24 or bigger) make a space feel more modern and minimize grout lines (aka less cleaning). Neutrals like warm whites, soft grays, and muted earth tones never go out of style.

✔ Matte Finishes > Glossy – Matte tiles are more forgiving with water spots and streaks, especially in showers.

✔ Accent Tiles in Moderation – A feature wall with herringbone, fish scale, or bold color tiles? Great. Covering the whole room in them? That’s a fast track to an outdated look.

For a bathroom that won’t feel stuck in a certain decade, stick with classic tile choices and use accents sparingly.

Curbless Showers & Heated Floors: Are They Worth It?

If you’re going high-end, these are two upgrades you won’t regret.

💎 Curbless Showers – Not only do they look sleek and modern, but they’re also easier to clean and accessible for all ages. A properly waterproofed Schluter system ensures no leaks, and a linear drain keeps things looking sharp.

💎 Heated Floors – Montreal winters are no joke. Radiant heating under tile isn’t just a luxury—it’s a game-changer for comfort. It’s also energy-efficient and eliminates the need for bulky baseboard heaters.

These are the upgrades that make a real difference in daily use, not just aesthetics.

Smart Storage: Because Clutter Kills Design

A gorgeous bathroom means nothing if your countertops are covered in toiletries.

Storage is everything.

Bathroom Storage Solutions That Work

✔ Custom Vanities Over Pre-Fab – Big box store vanities might be cheaper, but they never maximize storage efficiently. Custom vanities give you the exact layout and storage you need.

✔ Recessed Niches & Medicine Cabinets – Recessed shower niches are a must—no one likes cluttered shampoo bottles sitting on the floor. A mirrored medicine cabinet (with built-in lighting) adds extra hidden storage without looking dated.

✔ Floating Vanities – They make a space feel larger, easier to clean, and add a modern, streamlined look.

Storage isn’t just about function—it’s what keeps your bathroom looking sleek and organized.

Lighting: The Secret to a High-End Bathroom

Lighting is one of the most overlooked aspects of a bathroom, but it can make or break the entire space.

Bathroom Lighting Must-Haves

✔ Layered Lighting is Key – Overhead fixtures alone aren’t enough. Use a combination of recessed lighting, wall sconces beside mirrors, and even under-cabinet lighting for a spa-like feel.

✔ Ditch the Builder-Grade Vanity Lights – Those outdated Hollywood-style bulbs? They cast harsh shadows and look cheap. Instead, go for modern sconces or backlit mirrors for even, flattering light.

✔ Smart Dimmers – Adjustable lighting lets you switch between bright, task lighting (for makeup or shaving) and soft, ambient lighting for a relaxing bath.

Good lighting = a bathroom that feels warm, inviting, and expensive.

How Much Does a Bathroom Renovation Cost?

💰 Cost Breakdown

💰 Mid-Range Bathroom ($25K - $40K)

• Standard layout

• Quality tile & fixtures

• Custom vanity

• Basic heated floor option

💰 High-End Bathroom ($40K - $100K+)

• Custom tile work

• Curbless shower with Schluter waterproofing

• Luxury materials (quartz countertops, high-end fixtures)

• Smart lighting & built-ins

A bathroom renovation isn’t just about looks—it’s about longevity. Cutting corners means spending more on repairs later.

Why Work With MTL Contractors?

Your home isn’t just another project—it’s where life happens. That’s why we don’t do cookie-cutter renovations. Every space we design and build is tailored to fit your needs, style, and long-term goals.

Here’s what makes us different:

✅ Custom, High-End Design – We prioritize craftsmanship and quality over mass-produced, one-size-fits-all solutions.

✅ Licensed, Bonded & Insured – No cutting corners. No surprises. Just expert work, done right.

✅ Honest Pricing & No BS – We give you real numbers upfront, so you know what to expect.

✅ A Team You Can Trust – We handle everything from design to execution, so you’re never stuck managing multiple contractors on your own.

If you’re ready to transform your space with expert renovations, let’s talk. Book a consultation with MTL Contractors today and let’s bring your vision to life.

🚀 Don’t forget! Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and subscribe to our YouTube channel for more expert renovation tips!

How to design a bathroom ✅

How to Design a Bathroom That Won’t Look Dated in 5 Years