November 17, 2025
As global uncertainty grows, people are creating homes that reflect calm, comfort, and purpose. “Nowhere is that more evident than in the bathroom”, says Fredrik Leander, Senior Product Manager at Gustavsberg. Here, he shares five key trends shaping how we design and experience bathrooms in the years ahead.
Trend 1: Bringing Nature Indoors
“When Gustavsberg returns to Nordbygg 2026, it will likely be with a natural and calming atmosphere at its exhibition area. In an increasingly hectic world – both globally and at home – people want their bathrooms to be spaces for stillness and recovery.
This is reflected in both color and material choices. Warm, natural tones such as warm grey, beige, dark woods, and stone dominate. Sustainable materials and an earthy aesthetic come together to create harmony and balance”, says Fredrik Leander, Senior Product Manager at Gustavsberg.
Trend 2: Traditional Minimalism
“Design trends are moving toward what Fredrik calls traditional minimalism – where timeless forms meet contemporary expression. Brushed brass, stone, dark wood, and matte finishes are key. The matte glaze adds a natural, tactile quality, and greenery is becoming an increasingly common feature in bathroom interiors”, describes Fredrik.
Trend 3: Sustainability and Reuse Become the Norm
“Sustainability has evolved from being a competitive advantage to a basic requirement in major construction projects. Environmental certifications and EPDs (Environmental Product Declarations) are now standard – something Gustavsberg fully embraces”, claims Fredrik and continues:
“Thanks to extensive local production, the company can offer products with a low CO₂ footprint. For Gustavsberg, sustainability also means minimizing environmental impact during the user phase, which often accounts for the majority of a product’s total footprint. To that end, the company is developing features that save both water and energy, while also pushing the boundaries of reuse. Gustavsberg now works with a structured process to reclaim products, upgrade them industrially, and give them a second life. Each piece is cleaned, fitted with energy-efficient components, tested, and resold with a warranty – extending its lifecycle and setting a new standard for circularity”.
Trend 4: Technology with Purpose
“Smart technology has long been part of bathroom innovation, but today it must have a clear purpose. If technology is installed, it needs to add genuine value – not just novelty. The focus is on solutions that truly make a difference, particularly those that enhance sustainability, comfort, and user experience”, says Fredrik.
Trend 5: The Bathroom Becomes the New Heart of the Home
“The bathroom has evolved from a purely functional room into a space for well-being, identity, and reflection. Both property developers and end users are now investing more time, energy, and resources into creating bathrooms that express personality and support balance in daily life”, concludes Fredrik.
Meet Gustavsberg in Hall A at Nordbygg 2026, where bathrooms and HVAC take center stage with a range of inspiring exhibitors and innovations.
