A Design Style That Will Outlive Us All
Vintage bathroom details have been used over that last few decades – even centuries. It’s a style that continues to win over the modern day homeowner. Interested in incorporating a vintage style into your bathroom? Here are five projects to inspire a modern vintage bathroom remodel.
Vintage Bathroom Designs
Five Inspirational Projects
Stained Glass and Custom Details
Stained glass is a perfect addition to any bathroom. In the project above, it is used a bit differently. Instead of being placed on an exterior window, this art glass is installed in a custom medicine cabinet with backlighting. This custom vanity also has applied a vintage fretwork molding motif on the door. Unique details such as the crystal cabinet knobs inspired by the original door hardware, and historically accurate reproduction sconces mounted directly to a cabinet add to the overall vintage look.
Iconic Claw-Foot Tub
Arguably one of the iconic centerpieces of a bathroom is the clawfoot tub. This Double Slipper Claw-foot Tub has both ends raised and sloped to create a more comfortable lounging position. This elegant feature works well with a vintage or modern style. Did you know that when clawfoot tubs first emerged in the 19th century, they were made from cast iron and lined with porcelain to help retain heat?
Decorative Wainscoting
Wainscoting is a partial-wall paneling used in bathrooms. This style gained popularity in the 18th century. It was intended as a means of providing a more lasting wall surface and aiding in the insulation of a room. Today, it’s a unique way to add a personal touch to your bathroom. Notice the hexagonal mosaic floor tile, which is another classic vintage look.
Historic Paint Colors and Subway Tile
There is a rich history behind the 3 x 6 subway tile, as it was originally placed in a New York subway back in 1904. Its sleek appearance and easy to clean surfaces promoted beauty and cleanliness, which made it an attractive choice for the Victorians. Since then, subway tiles have stood the test of time and become an overwhelming favorite. Today, it’s available in various colors, sizes, textures, and materials. As for selecting a historic wall color, the paint manufacturer, Benjamin Moore provides a collection of historic paint colors.
Console Sink and Floor Tile
Here’s a great example of an updated take on traditional vintage design elements. Pictured above is a console sink (popular in the 1920’s and 30’s), which is a cross between a wall-mounted sink and a pedestal sink. This bathroom has updated vintage elements. This includes the console sink, the tile wainscot, a framed medicine cabinet, and a window with divided lites in it. The hexagon floor tile is a bit larger than the smaller mosaic tiles typically used in that era for an updated take on a vintage floor tile.
Vintage Meets Transitional
The beauty of the vintage style is that it can be incorporated with other styles. Learn how the team transformed a historic Victorian home in Crocus Hill.
