Smart bathroom solutions

The bathroom fixtures and accessories segment has seen a turnaround in the recent times. Construction Times explores the changing trends in the bathroom design and fixtures. 

Growing urbanization is changing the concept of bathroom design in the country with consumers increasingly seeking premium, design-led solutions that turn bathrooms into luxurious personal spaces. Bathrooms today are no longer purely functional — they have become personal sanctuaries reflecting lifestyle and wellness aspirations. Consumers now desire complete bathroom solutions that blend smart functionality with emotional appeal. They increasingly seek designs that combine beauty with smart functionality — through intuitive technology, water-saving innovations, and space optimization. Design is becoming more intuitive, with cleaner lines, softer forms, and features that simplify daily use. From coloured ceramics to modular fittings, brands are offering more choices to create bespoke bathroom experiences. Aesthetic appeal now goes hand-in-hand with thoughtful utility.

Emerging trends

With urbanization reshaping our living environments, bathroom design is evolving to meet the unique challenges of compact city living. Sahyog Bharti Pandita, Managing Director, Duravit India, presents the trends evolving, “Builders and homeowners alike are prioritizing intelligent space planning, resulting in a surge in demand for compact, multifunctional fixtures—like wall-mounted WCs, integrated shower-tub units, and space-saving vanities. At the same time, there’s a growing emphasis on sustainability, with water-efficient solutions and eco-conscious materials becoming standard. Despite space constraints, today's urban bathrooms are no longer just functional—they’re designed to be stylish sanctuaries that blend efficiency with comfort and luxury.”

Bathroom fixtures and designs are evolving in design, colour and shapes. According to Anoop Garg, Founder & Director, Gravity Bath, bathroom design today is all about elegance, ergonomics, and expression. “Shapes are becoming more organic and fluid, with a tilt toward minimalist yet bold styles. In finishes, chrome remains classic, but there’s growing demand for matte black, brushed gold, rose gold, and dual-tone textures that give bathrooms a premium look,” he adds.

Urbanisation is driving the need for more efficient, adaptable bathroom solutions. “With shrinking home sizes and fast-paced lifestyles, people are seeking smart, space-saving designs. Features such as wall-mounted vanities, compact shower systems, and foldable bathtubs are gaining popularity. Urban consumers are also looking for products that can deliver comfort in limited space without compromising on style or performance,” highlights Priya Rustogi, Leader India & Subcon, LIXIL IMEA.   

Product innovations

Bathroom products are being evolved with new innovations with respect to the changing needs of the customers. According to Shiozawa Kazuyuki, Managing Director, TOTO India, one prominent trend in the Indian sanitaryware market is shifting toward premium and designer bathroom fixtures, with rising demand for electronic bidet seat like WASHLET and smart toilets like NEOREST featuring AUTOFLUSH, AUTO OPEN-CLOSE LID, electronic bidet functions, and touchless controls. “We call our innovative approach as TOTO CLEANOVATION,” he adds.

The latest launches at Duravit incorporate a wide range of worlds of style, where a versatile design language provides space for individual preferences and design freedom. Patricia Urquiola’s Balcoon collection redefines premium bathroom design, blending minimalistic geometry with timeless elegance. Balcoon offers accessible luxury without compromise. The ME by Starck Hero Edition wall-mounted toilet combines Philippe Starck’s iconic design with advanced technology for maximum hygiene, comfort, and efficiency.

Gravity is redefining smart bathroom solutions for the Indian market with innovative, problem-solving products that elevate everyday comfort. Some of the innovations are: Thermostatic diverters, Multifunction showers with LED & speakers, Next-gen smart toilets, and Filter showers.

“GROHE brand, part of LIXIL, is introducing fixtures that are not only intuitive and durable but also efficient in water and energy use. Innovations such as touchless taps, smart shower systems, and digital controls reflect our commitment to practical performance, designed to enhance daily routines,” Rustogi says. The recent introduction of Cubeo collection comes in various sizes and finishes, including Chrome and Matte Black, catering to diverse design preferences across the country. 

Market outlook

According to Pandita, the market outlook for bathroom products and solutions remains very positive, driven by rising urbanization, increasing disposable incomes, greater awareness of global design trends, and a growing focus on wellness and sustainability. “Consumers today expect more from their bathroom spaces — not just in terms of functionality, but also design, innovation, and environmental responsibility. This is creating strong opportunities across both residential and hospitality segments,” he adds.

In line with the growth trends, Garg comments, “At Gravity Bath, we have set a bold target of achieving Rs 1,000-crore turnover by 2028.”

Rustogi is of the view, “The future of bathroom design lies in offering experiences that are not only efficient but also emotionally enriching and adaptable to evolving lifestyles.”

TOTO is aiming to grab the emerging opportunities in the market. Kazuyuki, elaborates, “With India being a key to our global growth, our focus areas are expanding presence, enhancing offerings, and communicating durability, hygiene and comfort to our consumers.”

With bathrooms increasingly being seen as wellness spaces rather than purely functional zones, the future bathrooms will see aesthetics and utility going hand-in-hand.