In the battle of form vs. function, in bathrooms, form is winning out. That's not to say that functionality isn't important, but classic beauty is replacing cuteness or gimmickry.

Clearly, the byword is luxury.

In shower walls, granite, marble, and slate are popular high-end choices. Earth colors have replaced pastels. Teak is the most popular wood color, with contrasting dark trim. In hardware, living finishes, like oil-rubbed copper and bronze that develop a patina are gaining favor. Brushed and satin nickels have replaced polished brass in popularity, although chrome still is number one.

White remains the number one choice for fixtures. Fashion colors go out of style in a few years, but white is forever. Biscuit is an acceptable alternative for a softer image. For counter tops, simulated or natural marble, limestone, and travertine are favorites.

Room colors tend toward pastels with deeper accents to give the room a light feel. Decorative trim and framing material is moving toward higher quality materials. Stainless steel, cherry wood or matte black mirror frames are common.

Styles tend toward the eclectic. Whether your preference is Old World or Contemporary, there are fixtures and accessories to suit your taste. The characteristic they all share, however, is quality, durability and, of course, luxury.

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