Thank you for the response. I cropped the photo so you can see the window.

Would this type of panel be considered more updated than blocks?

Definitely pebbled glass instead of blocks.

Why would you want to hide the beautiful trees? Your window looks high enough not to be in the way of the shower. If you are completely renovating, why not build a niche for your body wash and hair products so they aren't on the window sill which looks horrible. And while you're at it, powerwash your eaves so it's not dirty looking. Don't do the glass block. What you've heard is correcty. It's dated. And looks cheap.

We don't want to hide the trees - unfortunately, with the soffit, it has been power-washed and remains somewhat unsightly. Yes, niches are being built - already on it.

Glass blocks are outdated. Frosted or pebbled glass would be better. It’s best to have a window that can be opened. Paint the soffit if it bothers you so much.

No glass block. I personally don't find that view so offensive, but maybe it looks different in real life. Another vote for some kind of opaque glass--and retain a window that can give ventilation. It looks like the room currently has one of those plastic tub/shower things. I assume it's going to be tiled instead? So this is a good time to upgrade the window, too. Good luck!

You need natural light in a bathroom. Glass blocks distort light and you will totally lose the details of the trees outside.

Glass blocks have been in and out of fashion since at least the 1920s and are absolutely perfect in some homes. I don't know if they would fit in with your house's style, but in that location, an operable window would just plain be nicer.

I think frosted is the way to go! I frosted the windows on either side of my front door for privacy, and it totally works and keeps the brightness!