10 Creative Vintage Bathroom Decorating Ideas: My Favorite Ways to Bring Timeless Charm into Your BathroomClara M. VanceJan 20, 2026Table of Contents1. Clawfoot Tub Revival2. Pedestal Sinks with Character3. Black and White Tile Patterns4. Vintage Light Fixtures5. Ornate Mirrors6. Built-in Storage Niches7. Wainscoting Walls8. Brass & Copper Fixtures9. Freestanding Linen Cabinets10. Vintage-Inspired WallpaperFAQFree Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREEOne time a client showed me a clawfoot tub she found in a barn—rust, spiderwebs, and all. She asked, “Can we make this the centerpiece?” I almost said no, but then I realized: small spaces like vintage bathrooms are perfect playgrounds for big ideas. Over the years, I’ve learned that the right mix of design choices can make even the tiniest bathroom feel like it belongs in a historic boutique hotel, and today I’m sharing my top 10 inspirations.1. Clawfoot Tub RevivalI still remember restoring that barn-find tub. With fresh enamel paint and brushed-brass feet, it became the star of the room. Restoring rather than replacing often saves budget, though matching the plumbing to modern standards can be tricky.save pin2. Pedestal Sinks with CharacterThese sinks open up visual space and make the bathroom feel lighter. Antique stores sometimes have hidden gems, though you’ll want to ensure they meet today’s plumbing codes. I once paired one with subway tiles I planned out using an online room planner so I could test proportions first.save pin3. Black and White Tile PatternsThis is a guaranteed vintage vibe. Checkerboard floors or penny tiles bring that early 20th-century feel. Smaller patterns suit compact bathrooms better, but cleaning grout is something to keep in mind.save pin4. Vintage Light FixturesSwapping harsh LEDs for soft, frosted sconces changes everything. I’ve upcycled old lanterns into wall lights—there’s something so satisfying about giving them new life. Just remember to use moisture-rated wiring.save pin5. Ornate MirrorsA gold-gilded mirror above the sink instantly elevates the space. Keep other elements simple so it can shine. Bonus: antique frames often hide flaws in older walls.save pin6. Built-in Storage NichesInstead of bulky cabinets, recessed shelves keep vintage charm intact while adding function. Planning them into your layout early—using a free floor plan creator—is much easier than retrofitting later.save pin7. Wainscoting WallsHalf-height wooden panels add texture and warmth. Painting them in muted tones like sage or dusty blue works wonders, but be prepared for occasional touch-ups if you have kids splashing around.save pin8. Brass & Copper FixturesMixing metals can be bold, but for a true vintage look, sticking to aged brass or copper makes the design feel authentic. Not the cheapest choice, but they age beautifully over time.save pin9. Freestanding Linen CabinetsI love using old armoires as storage—they bring history into the bathroom. Just add a protective sealant to avoid moisture damage. I once mapped one into a small ensuite using a bathroom design tool to make sure it would fit without crowding the tub.save pin10. Vintage-Inspired WallpaperFlorals, damasks, or Art Deco prints can make a vintage bathroom sing. Waterproof options are now widely available, so you can get the look without worrying about peeling.save pinFAQQ: Can I mix vintage elements with modern fixtures?A: Absolutely. Mixing creates balance—you get the charm without sacrificing reliability.Q: Is it expensive to go full vintage?A: Not necessarily. Thrift shops, salvage yards, and DIY refinishing can stretch your budget.Start for FREEPlease check with customer service before testing new feature.Free Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREE