What’s new in bath sinks and faucets? There’s no one, simple answer to that question. Today, design trends in bathroom sinks and faucets vary dramatically depending on geographic location, with regional trends having a decided impact on market choices.

What’s hot in the Northeast is often passé in the West. What the urbanites consider chic may not be en vogue in the cosmopolitan areas. Add to this mix a very tough economy, which has led to more people renovating older homes rather than building new, and you have an eclectic mix of styles turning up in bathroom sinks and faucets.

“From the global economic downturn and the collapse of the U.S. housing market to political uncertainty about a new president, consumer confidence is down,” says Judy Riley, v.p. of design for Moen in North Olmsted, OH.

“And because American consumers are anxious, there is a psychological need for escape.”

Of course, there’s no better escape than the bath, and that means consumers are focusing on creating bath havens that are soothing, comfortable and comforting, with bath faucets and sinks that feature warmer finishes and softer styling.

SOFTENED STYLES

As is the case so often in tough economic times, consumers are turning toward the familiar comfort of traditional styles, although the “soft” contemporary look is also gaining momentum.

California Faucets has seen an increase in contemporary and minimalist design over the last couple of years, but also a resurgence in traditional in the past six months. “We’re seeing the blending of traditional and contemporary design, including unexpected combinations such as a rustic finish on a contemporary faucet,” says Noah Taft, California Faucets’ senior v.p. of marketing and sales, in Huntington Beach, CA. “Our interpretation is that consumers want a modern look, but don’t want to give up their traditional roots.”

Michael Wurth, director of design for Danze in Woodbridge, IL, says that as many people renovate older homes, traditional design is in demand. “We see people asking for very ornate styling or simpler traditional design,” he says.

“More design options are popping up that have a very eclectic mix of elaborate, rich traditional detailing and simple lines like those seen in contemporary styles.”