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What’s In: Contemporary Bathrooms

This Potomac bathroom by McInturff Architects features a 2,200-pound tub carved from a single block of limestone. Most of the flooring is also limestone; the wood trim is fir. McInturff bathroom photograph by Julia Heine/McInturff

Wall and floor tile: Natural stone or porcelain, with tiling not just in showers but on walls outside. Lots of texture or very smooth. Large format—12 by 24 inches or larger. Flooring in plank styles or large tiles, often same color as walls.

Accent tiles: Usually none or very minimal.

Tub: Usually not included, but if it is, it’s air- and water-jetted.

Sink: Counter-mounted. Lots of square styles.

Sink color: White, natural stone, metal, or clear or black glass.

Sink faucet: Wall-mounted or single lever with high arc spout.

Shower faucets: Multiple showerheads, including hand-held, body sprays, and steam unit.

Faucet finish: Polished chrome or stainless steel.

Cabinetry: Floating cabinets with flat doors or open shelves. Dark-stained wood, ecofriendly wood composites, or bamboo.

Countertops: Quartz in gray, black, or bright colors such as lime green. Natural stone that’s mostly honed, sometimes polished. Also concrete and glass.

Back to Great Bathrooms

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