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The Home Renovations Advisor

Vintage Bathroom Ideas

Vintage Bathroom Design Ideas - Elements that Never go out of Style


Vintage bathrooms will never go out of style. With time, modern design elements are included in the design but the basic vintage look is still maintained.

When people conjure up thoughts of vintage bathrooms, they imagine pedestal sinks, claw-foot tubs and the classic white tiles. But there is so much more to this design.

Modern conveniences are combined seamlessly with old world charm. So, let's take a look at some of these bathroom design ideas.


1. Console Sinks: 

In these sinks, the structure stands on slender legs and all the plumbing is visible. The design became popular in the beginning of the 1900s when the idea of sanitary bath caught up.

When the open-air plumbing became popular it provided ventilation and easy cleaning. The legs are usually of sturdy metal and the sink can be complimented by marble top. The under mount can be of porcelain.


Porcelain can be used throughout the sink construction. Matching furniture, sconces and crystal chandelier can accentuate the look. This look can provide a touch of venetian bathroom design.


2. Pedestal Sinks: 

This is the single most classic element of any bathroom design. The pedestal sink is simple design that aims to conceal the plumbing underneath the sink. The base of these sinks do not take much space and thus provide a sense of increased space in the bathroom. So, these are ideal for the small vintage bathroom.


3. Ceramic Handle Faucets: 

The faucet handles are of white ceramic trim providing the bathroom the ultimate vintage look. The ends of the levers can be gold and silver colored to accentuate the vintage look.


4. Claw Foot Tubs: 

These tubs were considered a luxurious bathroom design element in the early 19th century. In fact, claw foot tubs are a  collectible item even today. These tubs have four supports at each end in the form of animal claws. The rest of the tub is elevated and the floor visible underneath.

The plumbing is kept clean and visible just like the rest of the vintage bathroom architecture. More water is required to bath in claw-foot tubs as compared to other tub styles. Originally, claw-foot tubs were made from cast iron. But these days, just about any material is used in the construction including marble, fiberglass, porcelain, or acrylic.


These are available in 5 major styles:


  •   Roll Top or the Classic Roll Rim
  •  Double Slipper Claw-Foot Tubs : Both ends are at an elevation and have a slope.
  • Slipper Claw-Foot tubs : One end has an elevation creating a slope offering a relaxed lounging position.

  • Pedestal Tubs: Not exactly a claw-foot tub but can be remodeled to have claws.

  • Two-ended Claw-Foot Tubs : Both ends have a round shape unlike the classic trim where one end is rounded.


Vintage bathroom design ideas further include many elements like tub faucets, wainscotings, white sub-way wall tiles and even flooring patterns.

Modern amenities can be included also. But the classic elements should be integrated so seamlessly so as not to alter the look of the vintage architecture style.

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Clawfoot Tub

Privacy Fence

Pedestal Sink

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Bathroom Lighting

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Ceramic Handles