It’s that time of the year again when we look back at the designs and trends that made the biggest impact in the last 12 months. But more importantly, for those thinking about future renovations, additions and interior makeovers, it is the time to consider the popular trends that are expected to dominate in the year ahead. So, what hot trends await us when it comes to bathroom design in 2015? As always, there is the usual lineup of suspects like the exquisite use of gray, freestanding tubs, expansive walk-in showers and water-saving fixtures, which are already trending in 2014.

But today we look beyond these already popular ideas and look at four design ideas that are expected to make a big splash in the year ahead. Continuing the theme of luxury, relaxation and efficiency, they seem like an organic extension of the ideas that have gained prominence in the last few years.

Asian-Style Zen Retreats

As our lives get busier and far more frantic, we are left searching for avenues that help us rejuvenate, rest and revitalize at every possible turn. The growth in the popularity of spa-like home bathrooms epitomizes this idea perfectly. With homeowners willing to spend the extra buck for an opulent bathroom, beautiful Asian-style bathrooms are becoming more common across the planet. Inspired by classic Chinese and traditional Japanese design elements, these bathrooms easily usher in that spa-inspired vibe. Filled with natural materials, water features and minimal aesthetics, they are indeed perfect for the contemporary home.

Natural and Sustainable

Speaking of bathrooms with a calming, natural vibe, the trend of turning towards eco-friendly, sustainable design in the bathroom is expected to blossom in 2015. Natural materials such as wood and bamboo bring inviting warmth to a bathroom that otherwise has a sleek, contemporary appeal. Since white, gray and other neutral hues are preferred in these elegant spaces, these materials also usher in gorgeous textural contrast. If you are willing to go further, then think of a beautiful living wall that will bring drama and natural goodness indoors. For a simpler look, add a few indoor plants and creepers in a smart way to transform the bathroom environment.

If vertical gardens seem like too much work, then you can opt for a quick renovation that opens up the bathroom towards the private garden outside. For those blessed with bathrooms surrounded by a lush green, forest canopy, this task becomes even simpler. No matter what the style is, try adding a dash of nature for a cooler bathroom!

Brilliant LED Lighting

Lighting always plays a crucial role in shaping the final look and feel of pretty much any room in the house. A thing to note about bathroom lighting is that you cannot really switch between the trendy pieces all too often, as many of them are fitted into the wall and often will be used for years to come. So following fleeting trends might not be the best idea here. Having said that, the use of brilliant LED lights for both ambient and accent illumination is not a style statement that is expected to die down anytime soon.

This is indeed a safe bet, and you can combine intuitive LED lighting with a great chandelier at the heart of it all to shape a truly spectacular bathroom. As an added bonus, you will also be making substantial cuts on your energy bills once you make the switch.

A Sense of Warmth

People have endured harsher winters globally in the last few years, and with the colder days seemingly getting longer, radiant heated floors are becoming a ‘must’ for posh, modern bathrooms. Heated flooring brings luxury to your beautiful bathroom, and the under tile flooring can be extended to heat even shower benches and towel racks. You never have to deal with cold feet again after embracing this hot bathroom design idea!