One of this year's biggest bathroom trends is designs influenced by nature. From colors to materials, bringing the outside in is a beautiful way to create a tranquil space. But should you use wood in a bathroom?
Wood has been reemerging in kitchens, but should we embrace it in bathrooms, too? Due to the damper environment and wavering opinions on whether or not it's an outdated style, people are often hesitant to introduce this organic finish to their schemes.
But to find out once and for all if wood bathrooms are making a comeback and whether they're a practical option, we've asked interior designers to weigh in – and spoiler alert: it's a totally timeless choice.
Is a wooden bathroom a good idea?
While wood might not be a material you considered in your bathroom designs, it turns out it's actually one of the most favored options among interior designers. And for good reason.
'Wood in bathrooms will never get old. Wood adds warmth, texture, and a sense of history, transforming what can be a clinical space into one that feels rich in character and atmosphere,' says interior designer Lauren Gilberthorpe.
It's also an incredibly versatile material for bathrooms, where you have less space to make an impact. While the obvious way to introduce wood might be via the bathroom vanity, there is more than one way to bring it into your scheme.
'Besides wood being a timeless material, its applications are endless. From a wood vanity to wood accent walls, there’s a place for this material in nearly every bathroom design,' says Brenda, of Houselift Design.
As well as considering how you introduce wood to your bathroom, you'll also need to choose which type of wood is best for your space. It's not just about visual appeal, but also how different wood types withstand different environments.
'For a vanity with only a stain finish, I’d recommend white oak. Its natural complexion is stunning with just a sealant, but it also absorbs other stains beautifully,' says Brenda.
'One client sought a sanctuary where light, storage, and function harmonize effortlessly. With a focus on soft, ambient lighting and thoughtful storage solutions, the layout was reimagined to create a serene, fluid space – transforming their primary bathroom into a timeless retreat.'
In damper, more humid spaces, you'll want to introduce a type of wood that is most resilient. Even if it doesn't have the aesthetic you want to achieve, paint and stain can be used to give your desired look.
'For an accent wall or bench, teak is ideal. Teak is made to withstand the constant exposure to water and steam. It’s not invincible, but it’s definitely the most resilient,' she adds.
Are wood bathrooms back on trend for 2025?
There's no denying that wood bathrooms are practical, look beautiful, and create a tranquil environment, so will they be on-trend in 2025? 'Absolutely. With schedules that may sometimes be a bit chaotic, we're constantly looking for opportunities to create havens, safe spaces, and places for rejuvenation,' says Brenda.
'For many clients, the bathroom serves as that sanctuary. We can't tell you how often clients say they want their bathrooms to feel like a spa. What gives you that feeling of a spa? Materials grounded in nature – raw linens, soft or rich earthy shades, and wood with natural veining that tells the story. Nothing feels more relaxing than that!'
It's not a case of simply filling your bathroom with wood, however. A considered approach is required, and a combination of the right colors, textures, and materials is crucial to a successful design.
Consider the look you want to create. For a sleek scheme with hints of wood, look to introducing decor. For a more warm, traditional space, you can go big with larger furniture and paneling.
'We often introduce wood through vanities, mirrors, or architectural features, as it brings a natural, tactile quality to the space,' says Lauren, who designed the bathroom pictured above.
'When paired with durable finishes like brass, stone, or tile, it enhances the contrast and depth of the design. The warmth of wood works particularly well with earthy tones or soft neutrals, creating a harmonious palette that feels timeless yet fresh.'
Part of wood's appeal is its versatility. It's one of those materials that can fit seamlessly into multiple interior design styles, from traditional and vintage-style schemes to contemporary and Scandi aesthetics.
'You can pair wood with just about anything: small penny tile for an art deco throwback, microcement for a contemporary European style, or a funky wallpaper for a whimsical feel,' says Brenda.
'What makes design so exciting is that it’s always evolving. As designers continue to explore, we'll see even more creative color and material pairings with wood in the future.'
Your bathroom vanity is a great place to introduce an element of wood. This design is topped with a luxurious marble countertop. This example has a single sink, but it is also available as a double vanity.
Wood is often coveted to create a sense of tranquility in a bathroom scheme. And nothing offers a more relaxing experience than a warm bath. This wooden caddy is the perfect addition to elevate your experience.
Decorative bathroom elements are a stylish way to introduce wood in a more pared-back approach. This mirror is made from rattan and engineered hard wood – and the shape adds plenty of interest.
So, if you've been considering a wood bathroom, this is your sign to do it. It's the perfect material to create a sense of tranquility and a scheme that never dates. Plus, even if your interior design style changes over time, a wood bathroom can easily be reworked to match your evolving taste.
