Running With Tradition

There is also a growing interest in the use of above-counter lavatories in the master bathroom. "The lav sits on top of the counter, acting as a piece of art or an object that is very functional and very useful," explains Uhl. "As consumers consider the above-counter lavatory, it allows designers and homeowners to bring more furniture into the bathroom, furnishing the bathroom in similar fashion to the rest of the master bedroom suite."
Powder rooms or guest bathrooms are often showpieces for the home, featuring upscale products and dramatic pieces for effect. In addition, higher-end pieces may be used to tie in to the overall design of the home. 

"Being the most public 'private room' in the house, the powder room is a space where one can push the limit," Spector emphasizes. "We find that this bathroom tends to be a jewel, either in opulent traditional styles or cutting-edge design. We are seeing a renaissance in the use of color, and fixtures that make more of a design statement."

For the future, manufacturers expect the trend in bath sinks and faucets to be a blend of traditional designs with contemporary influences. Spector adds, "The consumer is more and more sensitive to pure design. Function is actually less of a concern with today's buyer, as it is expected as the norm. What then distinguishes one faucet, or one company, from another, is design."