There’s something undeniably charming about a vintage-style bathroom. The elegance of clawfoot tubs, the warmth of antique brass fixtures, and the beauty of classic tiling all come together to create a space that feels both timeless and luxurious. Whether you want to completely transform your bathroom into a vintage haven or just add a few nostalgic touches, the right design choices can make all the difference. Vintage bathrooms evoke an old-world charm while still offering modern functionality, making them a perfect blend of past and present. The best part? You don’t have to scour antique shops for every detail—many stunning vintage-inspired pieces are available online, making it easy to bring your dream bathroom to life. From the perfect vanity to the tiniest finishing touches, these 23 design hacks will help you create a bathroom that exudes charm, warmth, and character.
1. Embrace a Clawfoot Tub
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Nothing defines a vintage bathroom quite like a freestanding clawfoot tub. These elegant tubs date back to the late 19th century and instantly elevate the aesthetic of any space. Whether you opt for a traditional cast iron tub with a glossy white finish or a more colorful version with a pastel exterior, a clawfoot tub brings an air of sophistication. To enhance the vintage feel, pair it with a high-arched tub filler in brass or oil-rubbed bronze. A hand shower attachment also adds to the charm, making your bath time feel like an old-world luxury. To complete the look, consider a floor-mounted tub caddy to hold soaps, candles, and a good book.
2. Install a Pedestal Sink
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Pedestal sinks are a staple in vintage bathrooms, offering both functionality and timeless appeal. Unlike bulky modern vanities, a pedestal sink keeps the space feeling open and airy, making it an excellent choice for small bathrooms. The slender design of a porcelain pedestal sink exudes classic elegance, often featuring delicate detailing around the basin. If you’re aiming for a true vintage aesthetic, opt for a model with a scalloped edge or decorative accents. Pair it with cross-handle faucets in a brass or nickel finish for an extra dose of old-world charm. Since pedestal sinks lack storage, consider adding a vintage-inspired medicine cabinet or wall-mounted shelving for keeping essentials within reach.
3. Use Black and White Hexagon Tiles
source@gng.tiles.my
Flooring plays a crucial role in setting the tone for a vintage bathroom, and black-and-white hexagon tiles are a timeless choice. These small mosaic tiles were a popular feature in bathrooms of the early 20th century, adding a touch of retro charm while remaining stylish today. Whether you choose a classic checkerboard pattern or an intricate floral design within the tiling, this flooring instantly transports your space back in time. To keep the look authentic, opt for matte-finished tiles with dark grout for added contrast. Pair them with crisp white walls or wainscoting for a beautifully balanced design.
4. Incorporate Vintage Wallpaper
Wallpaper is a fantastic way to bring personality into a vintage bathroom, especially when choosing prints that reflect the era. Floral patterns, damask prints, or delicate toile designs are perfect for achieving a charming, old-fashioned look. Soft pastels, muted tones, or even a rich Victorian-style wallpaper with intricate detailing can add instant character. If you’re hesitant about fully committing, try peel-and-stick wallpaper, which allows you to experiment without long-term commitment. A well-chosen wallpaper can act as the focal point of your bathroom, complementing the vintage fixtures and furniture beautifully.
5. Add an Antique Vanity
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A vintage-inspired vanity can serve as the centerpiece of your bathroom, adding warmth and authenticity to the space. Instead of purchasing a modern vanity, consider repurposing an antique dresser or console table by fitting it with a sink. Distressed wood, intricate carvings, and brass hardware give it an aged appearance that fits perfectly within a vintage design scheme. To enhance the look, add an oval or arched mirror with a decorative gold frame above the vanity. This combination creates a truly nostalgic feel, reminiscent of classic European bathrooms.
6. Choose Brass or Oil-Rubbed Bronze Fixtures
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The right fixtures can make or break the vintage aesthetic of a bathroom. Shiny chrome and modern stainless steel just don’t capture the old-world charm quite like brass, copper, or oil-rubbed bronze finishes. From faucets to showerheads, selecting fixtures in warm, aged metals adds an authentic touch to the space. A classic bridge faucet or a wall-mounted option with porcelain lever handles can bring in a distinctive retro feel. For an even more antique look, seek out fixtures with intricate engravings or vintage-style cross handles.
7. Install a Vintage-Inspired Mirror
source@vintageinteriorspk
A mirror is more than just a functional piece in a bathroom—it can also be a striking design element. Vintage-style mirrors often feature ornate detailing, gilded frames, or intricate carvings that elevate the room’s aesthetic. A gold-framed, oval-shaped mirror or a distressed wooden mirror can add depth and elegance to your space. If you want a more dramatic vintage feel, opt for a pivoting wall mirror with an antique bronze finish, reminiscent of early 20th-century designs.
8. Use Subway Tiles for Walls
source@bonnyriggtiles
Subway tiles have remained a classic choice for over a century, thanks to their clean and timeless appeal. Whether you prefer glossy white, soft pastels, or vintage-inspired crackle-finish tiles, they offer a polished backdrop for a vintage bathroom. Traditional subway tiles pair beautifully with dark grout, creating a striking contrast that enhances the retro look. They can be used from floor to ceiling or halfway up the wall with beadboard paneling for a cozy, old-fashioned feel.
9. Hang a Chandelier or Vintage Pendant Light
source@tudoandco
Lighting is essential in achieving the right ambiance, and a vintage bathroom deserves fixtures that reflect its timeless elegance. Instead of standard ceiling lights, consider a mini crystal chandelier for a touch of glamour or an industrial-inspired pendant for a rustic feel. Wall-mounted sconces with frosted glass shades or antique brass finishes can further enhance the vintage aesthetic. Dimmer switches can also help create a soft, inviting glow that mimics the cozy atmosphere of early 20th-century bathrooms.
10. Incorporate Vintage Art and Frames
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Adding vintage art is an easy way to bring charm and character to your bathroom. Classic botanical prints, antique-style oil paintings, or black-and-white photographs framed in ornate gold or distressed wood instantly elevate the space. Consider grouping several small framed prints together to create a gallery wall effect, adding visual interest and a curated touch.
11. Use a Freestanding Storage Cabinet
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Storage is a necessity in any bathroom, but bulky modern cabinets can take away from the vintage aesthetic. Instead of a standard vanity cabinet, opt for a freestanding storage piece with an antique-inspired design. A tall, distressed wood cabinet with glass doors can showcase neatly arranged towels, apothecary jars, and vintage perfume bottles, instantly adding charm to the space. You can also repurpose an old armoire or a rustic bookshelf for a unique and functional storage solution. If space is limited, a wall-mounted wooden cabinet with vintage-style knobs will still capture the look without overwhelming the room.
12. Opt for a Pull-Chain Toilet
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One of the most distinctive elements of an old-world bathroom is a pull-chain toilet. These high-tank toilets were popular in the early 1900s and immediately evoke a turn-of-the-century charm. Unlike modern low-profile toilets, a pull-chain toilet features a raised tank mounted on the wall with a long pull chain to flush. The exposed plumbing and traditional ceramic tank create a striking vintage look that pairs beautifully with subway tiles and beadboard walls. While they are less common today, you can still find modern reproductions that combine vintage aesthetics with updated flushing mechanisms.
13. Dress Up the Windows with Lace or Café Curtains
source@wdesigncollective
Window treatments are often overlooked in bathroom design, but they can make a big difference in achieving a cohesive vintage look. Instead of modern blinds or heavy drapes, opt for delicate lace curtains or classic café-style curtains that let in natural light while still providing privacy. Soft, flowing fabrics in white or pastel shades enhance the romantic feel of a vintage bathroom, while crochet-trimmed valances add a nostalgic touch. For a cottage-style vintage aesthetic, gingham or floral-printed curtains can also work beautifully.
14. Install a Classic Wall-Mounted Sink
source@vintagetub
Wall-mounted sinks were a staple in bathrooms from the early 1900s, particularly in small spaces where floor space was limited. These sinks are typically made of porcelain and feature curved edges and elegant detailing, making them a perfect addition to a vintage bathroom. They pair well with exposed pipework in brass or nickel finishes, adding to the old-world charm. A wall-mounted sink also creates an airy, open feel, allowing for vintage-inspired baskets or a small stool underneath for added storage or decorative elements.
15. Add Wainscoting or Beadboard Paneling
source@brookeshenderson
If you want to add instant vintage charm to your bathroom walls, wainscoting or beadboard paneling is the way to go. This classic wall treatment consists of wooden panels that cover the lower half of the walls, providing texture and character. Traditionally painted white or soft pastels, beadboard works beautifully in vintage bathrooms, especially when paired with a pedestal sink or clawfoot tub. You can extend the paneling up to chair-rail height or go all the way to the ceiling for a more dramatic effect. Either way, it adds an elegant, time-honored touch to the space.
16. Use an Antique Ladder for Towel Storage
source@vitahomeartdesign
Instead of a standard towel rack, try repurposing an old wooden ladder for a charming and functional storage solution. Leaning against the wall, a vintage-style ladder offers a creative way to hang towels while adding rustic character to the bathroom. Choose a distressed or reclaimed wood ladder for an authentic antique look, or paint it in a pastel hue to complement your vintage decor. The rungs of the ladder can also double as a place to hang bathrobes or woven baskets for extra storage.
17. Include a Vintage Apothecary Cabinet
source@the_past_restored
An apothecary cabinet is a perfect way to enhance the vintage feel of your bathroom while providing storage for toiletries and essentials. These cabinets, inspired by old pharmacy furniture, often feature small drawers, glass-paneled doors, and intricate detailing. Whether you opt for a wall-mounted version or a freestanding piece, an apothecary cabinet instantly adds old-world charm. Store cotton swabs, bath salts, and essential oils in glass jars or vintage tins to complete the look.
18. Swap Modern Hardware for Crystal Knobs
source@explorehardware
One of the easiest and most affordable ways to add vintage charm to your bathroom is by swapping out modern hardware for antique-inspired alternatives. Crystal, glass, or porcelain knobs instantly elevate cabinetry and vanities, giving them a classic, elegant feel. Look for intricately designed handles with brass or bronze bases to maintain a cohesive vintage aesthetic. This small change makes a big impact, transforming even the most basic bathroom furniture into something truly special.
19. Incorporate a Classic Soap Dish and Dispenser Set
source@joe_classic_bathroom
Details matter when it comes to creating a truly vintage-inspired bathroom, and your soap dish and dispenser should reflect the overall aesthetic. Opt for ceramic, pressed glass, or brass soap dishes that replicate antique designs. A matching lotion or soap dispenser with delicate engravings or floral motifs adds another layer of elegance. For an authentic vintage touch, use bar soap in elegant packaging rather than modern liquid soap in plastic bottles.
20. Use a Vintage-Inspired Bath Mat or Rug
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A well-chosen bath mat or rug can tie together the entire vintage look of your bathroom. Instead of a plain modern mat, opt for an antique-style Persian rug or a floral-patterned woven rug. These designs bring warmth and texture to the space, creating a cozy, lived-in feel. Vintage-style rugs with intricate patterns in muted tones work particularly well in bathrooms with clawfoot tubs and pedestal sinks. Not only do they look beautiful, but they also add a layer of comfort underfoot.
21. Display Glass Jars for Storage
source@rowishome
Storage doesn’t have to be purely functional—glass apothecary jars can add both practicality and charm to your vintage bathroom. Use them to store cotton balls, Q-tips, bath salts, or homemade soaps while keeping everything neatly organized. Opt for jars with etched glass details or antique-style lids to enhance the vintage aesthetic. Arrange them on open shelves, vanities, or apothecary cabinets for a beautifully curated display.
22. Install a Vintage Wall Clock
Adding a vintage-style wall clock to your bathroom is a small yet impactful detail that enhances the overall aesthetic. Look for clocks with Roman numerals, distressed wood frames, or metal finishes that reflect the early 20th-century style. A wall clock with a slightly aged patina or antique brass hands adds a functional yet decorative element, tying the entire room together. Whether you hang it above the vanity or near a window, a vintage clock is a timeless addition.
23. Scent the Space with Vintage-Inspired Candles
source@bybessette
No vintage bathroom is complete without an inviting and nostalgic scent to set the mood. Scented candles in antique glass jars or tin containers can elevate the sensory experience of your space. Opt for fragrances like lavender, rose, sandalwood, or vanilla, which evoke a sense of old-world luxury. Arrange them on a clawfoot tub caddy, vanity, or open shelves for a warm and cozy ambiance. Vintage-style candle holders or brass candelabras can further enhance the old-fashioned charm, making every bath feel like an indulgent retreat.
