Bathrooms may be small, but they hold massive potential when it comes to design.
If you’ve ever walked into a bathroom that felt like stepping back in time—whether into the roaring 1920s, the rustic farmhouse era, or the glam-filled ’70s—you know the charm of vintage aesthetics.
Today, I’ll take you through 25 vintage bathroom aesthetic ideas that you can use to transform your space into something straight out of history, yet fully functional for modern life.
1. Classic Subway Tiles
The timeless subway tile has been a bathroom staple since the early 1900s. Its clean lines and glossy finish give off an authentic vintage feel.
You can stick with the classic white, or if you want more drama, go for dark grout that adds definition. Fun fact: subway tiles were first introduced in New York City subway stations in 1904, and homeowners quickly adopted them for their bathrooms.
2. Clawfoot Tubs
Few things scream vintage louder than a clawfoot tub. Originally popular in the late 19th century, they embody luxury and relaxation.
Imagine sinking into a clawfoot tub after a long day—it feels like slipping into history. If your bathroom has enough space, this should be your centerpiece.
3. Pedestal Sinks
Forget the bulky vanities; pedestal sinks were the go-to in vintage bathrooms. Their slim, elegant structure saves space and enhances the old-world vibe. They also make the bathroom look larger, which is especially useful in small spaces.
4. Hexagon Floor Tiles
Hexagon tiles, especially in black and white, were a huge hit in the 1920s. They’re durable, eye-catching, and create a sense of nostalgia instantly. For extra personality, consider a honeycomb pattern with a few contrasting tiles scattered in.
5. Brass Fixtures
If you want to inject instant vintage charm, switch your chrome taps for brass or antique gold fixtures. They patina beautifully over time, which only adds to their old-school charm. Plus, brass contrasts wonderfully with white tiles and porcelain.
6. Vintage Mirrors
A bathroom without a mirror feels incomplete, but a vintage bathroom demands something more ornate. Think of gilded frames, oval mirrors, or beveled edges. Antique mirrors often have slight imperfections, which make them look even more authentic.
7. Wallpaper with Florals or Patterns
Vintage bathrooms often had bold wallpaper—think florals, damask, or art deco prints. Modern technology has made moisture-resistant wallpaper an option, so you don’t have to worry about peeling. Adding wallpaper to even just one accent wall will transport you back in time.
8. Freestanding Storage Cabinets
Instead of built-ins, vintage bathrooms often had freestanding wooden or metal storage cabinets. They bring character and warmth, especially when painted in muted pastels or left in distressed finishes.
9. Vintage Light Fixtures
Lighting is a huge mood-setter. Replace modern LED panels with wall sconces, globe lights, or chandeliers. Globe lighting, in particular, was a staple of the mid-century bathroom scene. Edison bulbs can also give that soft, warm glow reminiscent of earlier times.
10. Checkerboard Flooring
If you want drama underfoot, nothing beats a black-and-white checkerboard floor. It’s bold, striking, and has been around since Victorian times. Pair it with simple walls to avoid overwhelming the space.
11. Wainscoting and Beadboard Walls
Adding wainscoting or beadboard halfway up the wall gives depth and texture while staying historically accurate. Originally used to protect walls from moisture, it now serves as a design feature that oozes charm.
12. Pastel Color Schemes
Mint greens, powder blues, blush pinks—pastels defined mid-century bathrooms. According to a study of color trends, over 50% of homes built in the 1950s featured pastel bathroom fixtures. Adding these hues instantly lightens up the mood.
13. Retro Toilets and Fixtures
Today’s toilets are sleek and uniform, but vintage ones often had high tanks with pull chains. While you might not swap your modern toilet, choosing vintage-inspired designs keeps the aesthetic authentic.
14. Stained Glass Windows
Stained or frosted glass isn’t just for churches—it adds character and privacy in vintage bathrooms. Imagine morning sunlight filtered through colorful patterns, casting warm tones across your tiles. It’s practical art.
15. Open Shelving with Vintage Baskets
Instead of modern cabinets, go with open shelving stocked with wicker or wire baskets. This gives a rustic vibe while keeping essentials handy. Roll up towels neatly, and it’ll look like something from a vintage spa.
16. Porcelain Soap Dishes and Accessories
It’s often the small details that complete the look. Porcelain soap dishes, toothbrush holders, and tissue boxes tie the whole vintage aesthetic together. Avoid plastic—it breaks the illusion.
17. Exposed Plumbing
Hiding pipes is a modern obsession. In vintage bathrooms, exposed plumbing in brass, copper, or blackened steel was common. It adds an industrial yet classic feel, reminding us of early 20th-century craftsmanship.
18. Curtain Dividers for Showers
Before glass doors became mainstream, shower curtains were the norm. Choose a heavy fabric curtain with patterns like stripes, florals, or lace trim for a genuine retro vibe.
19. Marble Countertops
Marble has stood the test of time. It’s elegant, luxurious, and feels straight out of a vintage hotel bathroom. Pair it with brass fixtures and it instantly elevates the whole space.
20. Antique Rugs Instead of Bath Mats
Ditch the fluffy bath mat and try a Persian or Turkish rug. Not only is it durable, but it also adds history and warmth. Many vintage bathrooms incorporated decorative rugs for style.
21. Apothecary Jars and Glass Containers
Instead of hiding items in plastic bottles, use apothecary jars for cotton balls, bath salts, and soaps. They were common in old pharmacies and bring that medicinal, retro charm.
22. Art Deco Elements
If you want glamour, art deco is the way to go. Think geometric shapes, bold patterns, and metallic finishes. Art deco bathrooms often used glossy black and gold for dramatic impact.
23. Lace Curtains and Window Treatments
Windows dressed in lace curtains instantly give that grandmother’s-house nostalgia. They let in natural light while keeping things private. Bonus: they soften the hard lines of tile and porcelain.
24. Wooden Toilet Seats
An overlooked detail, but a real vintage gem. Wooden toilet seats, often oak or mahogany, were standard before plastic became widespread. They add warmth and authenticity.
25. Vintage Artwork and Wall Décor
Bathrooms weren’t always stark and utilitarian. Adding vintage artwork, framed advertisements, or botanical prints personalizes the space and completes the nostalgic vibe.
Conclusion on 25 Vintage Bathroom Aesthetic Ideas
Designing a vintage bathroom is about more than just copying the past—it’s about recreating an atmosphere that feels timeless, cozy, and authentic. From clawfoot tubs and checkerboard flooring to the tiniest details like porcelain soap dishes and lace curtains, every choice matters.
If you’re planning a remodel or just small updates, start with one or two elements from this list. Maybe you’ll swap in a pedestal sink, hang a gilded mirror, or try pastel tiles. Slowly, your bathroom will evolve into a space that feels like stepping into another era.
At the end of the day, vintage bathrooms remind us of a time when design wasn’t just functional but full of personality. And who doesn’t want to get ready each morning in a room that feels like a page from history?
About James
James founded HomeUpgradeLab & was sharing his experiences to fix issues related to bathroom and toilet fixtures & fittings. Read to know more about James Hill & how he started this blog.