10 Old House Bathroom Remodel Ideas: Creative tips from my 10+ years in interior design to transform vintage bathrooms into timeless gemsLena M. CrossJan 20, 2026Table of Contents1. Keep the Original Tile When Possible2. Modern Fixtures with Vintage Flair3. Maximize Vertical Storage4. Lighten Up with Glass5. Mix Old Wood with Modern Elements6. Heated Floors Under Classic Tile7. Add Statement Lighting8. Upgrade Ventilation Without Compromising Style9. Play with Color Periods10. Design for LongevityFAQFree Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREEI still remember a client who begged me to keep her century-old clawfoot tub — but she also wanted a rainfall shower, underfloor heating, and modern storage. That project taught me that remodeling an old house bathroom is a balancing act between preserving character and embracing comfort. Small spaces like these often turn into a treasure hunt for hidden potential, and I’m excited to share 10 inspirations from my own projects that prove a vintage bathroom can be both charming and functional.1. Keep the Original Tile When PossibleOld mosaic or subway tiles have a unique patina you can’t fake. If the structure is sound, cleaning and regrouting can give them new life, saving both budget and authenticity.save pin2. Modern Fixtures with Vintage FlairSwitching to sleek plumbing lines with brushed brass or matte black finishes can bridge the gap between eras. I often map layouts early using a simple room planning process so we know which fixtures fit without crowding the space.save pin3. Maximize Vertical StorageIn compact old bathrooms, tall narrow cabinets or over-the-toilet shelving can be a game changer, freeing up floor space while keeping the design cohesive.save pin4. Lighten Up with GlassReplacing shower curtains with glass partitions allows more light to travel, opening up visually cramped rooms. Frosted glass can give you privacy without losing brightness.save pin5. Mix Old Wood with Modern ElementsRestored wood vanities bring warmth, while pairing them with quartz counters keeps maintenance low. It’s a soft clash that I’ve seen delight even the most hesitant clients.save pin6. Heated Floors Under Classic TileCold tiles in winter are almost a rite of passage in old homes. Installing radiant heat beneath preserved tile is a hidden luxury worth budgeting for, and layout sketches from a detailed floor plan tool can help plan the installation.save pin7. Add Statement LightingVintage bathrooms sometimes suffer from single dim fixtures. By adding layered lighting — sconces, mirror lighting, even a small chandelier — you bring life and character back into the room.save pin8. Upgrade Ventilation Without Compromising StyleMold is a silent enemy in older bathrooms. I’ve hidden modern exhaust fans inside decorative grilles that match the period style, keeping air flow effective and design intact.save pin9. Play with Color PeriodsPastel sinks and tubs from the 1920s, or black-and-white Art Deco vibes, can guide your palette. Lean into an era, but layer in modern comfort like well-placed niches and heated towel rails.save pin10. Design for LongevityThink about accessibility, durable materials, and easy-maintain finishes so your remodel lasts decades. A smart bathroom design approach during planning ensures the final result works for all stages of life.save pinFAQQ: Can I keep my old bathtub?A: Absolutely, as long as the structure is sound. Reglazing can make it look brand new.Q: How can I make a small bathroom feel bigger?A: Use light colors, glass partitions, and good lighting to enhance the sense of space.Q: Will modern plumbing damage my old walls?A: Not if handled by an experienced contractor familiar with historic homes.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