The 1920s was a decade known for its glamorous Art Deco influences, bold design statements, and luxurious finishes. If you’re dreaming of recreating that vintage vibe in your bathroom, you’re in luck! We’ve gathered 29 stylish and creative 1920s bathroom ideas to help you infuse your space with timeless charm. From bold color palettes to luxurious fixtures, there’s something here for every style. Let’s dive into the first 15 ideas and start transforming your bathroom into a vintage masterpiece.
1. Incorporate Art Deco Elements for a Glamorous Look
Art Deco is one of the most iconic design movements from the 1920s, and it’s a perfect fit for creating a glamorous bathroom. Characterized by bold geometric patterns, symmetry, and the use of luxurious materials like glass, chrome, and lacquered wood, Art Deco-inspired elements can instantly elevate any bathroom.
Start by incorporating geometric patterns in your tiles, either as a backsplash or on the floor. Think chevron or herringbone patterns in black and white, or opt for vibrant colors like emerald green or deep navy for a more dramatic effect. To complete the look, consider adding sleek metallic finishes in the form of faucets, light fixtures, or cabinet hardware. These modern yet retro details will transport your bathroom straight back to the Jazz Age.
2. Add a Clawfoot Tub for Timeless Elegance
No item says 1920s bathroom like a clawfoot tub. These freestanding bathtubs evoke the elegance and luxury of the era, making them the perfect centerpiece for your vintage-inspired bathroom. Whether you opt for a classic white tub or go bold with a color like deep blue or even gold, a clawfoot tub creates an instant statement.
Pair it with vintage-style brass or chrome taps and a sleek, period-appropriate shower curtain for the ultimate touch of elegance. The charm of a clawfoot tub isn’t just in its beauty—it’s also about how it makes you feel. Picture yourself soaking in a bubble bath surrounded by the glamour of the 1920s!
3. Choose Subway Tile for a Clean, Classic Feel
Subway tiles have been a staple of bathroom design for over a century, and they were particularly popular in the 1920s due to their clean, timeless aesthetic. In classic white, subway tiles bring a sense of understated elegance to your space, providing a neutral backdrop that allows other vintage elements to shine.
For added dimension and style, consider using subway tiles with contrasting grout, like black grout with white tiles, or opt for textured tiles for an added tactile experience. Subway tile doesn’t just look good—it’s also incredibly durable and easy to maintain, making it a great choice for high-traffic bathroom areas.
4. Go Bold with Black and White Color Schemes
The black-and-white color scheme is one of the most iconic of the 1920s and is synonymous with the sleek, sophisticated style of Art Deco. This classic combo not only adds a striking contrast but also provides a clean, chic look that fits perfectly into a vintage bathroom.
To make the most of a black-and-white palette, consider alternating black and white tiles on the floor or walls. You can also add black-framed mirrors, black faucets, and white cabinetry for a balanced design. For a touch of luxury, incorporate gold accents, like a gold-framed mirror or gold drawer pulls, to bring a little extra glamour into your space.
5. Install a Pedestal Sink for Space-Saving Vintage Appeal
A pedestal sink is an elegant, space-saving solution that was commonly used in bathrooms during the 1920s. Its simple, clean lines make it perfect for a vintage-style bathroom, especially in smaller spaces where you want to maintain an open, airy feel.
Pedestal sinks often feature charming, period-specific details, such as fluted columns or elegant hardware. To enhance the vintage aesthetic, choose one in white porcelain or add a touch of opulence with a pedestal sink that has a marble top. Not only will it give your bathroom a classic touch, but it also ensures that the room feels spacious and uncluttered.
6. Embrace Luxurious Lighting Fixtures
Lighting was an essential aspect of 1920s design, and the bathroom was no exception. Art Deco-style sconces or chandeliers with crystal or glass detailing were often used to add a touch of glamour to the space.
To bring this to life in your own bathroom, consider installing a chandelier with beveled glass, a series of sleek wall sconces, or an overhead light fixture with geometric patterns. These lighting options not only illuminate the room but also serve as a decorative statement, adding to the overall vintage aesthetic.
7. Incorporate Chevron or Herringbone Floors
Both chevron and herringbone patterns were popular flooring styles in the 1920s, and they can add a bold, architectural statement to your bathroom. These patterns, often found in wood or tile, create a visually dynamic effect, drawing the eye and giving the floor a sense of movement.
To keep it in line with the 1920s style, go for black and white tile in a chevron or herringbone design, or choose luxurious marble tiles for a more opulent look. This bold floor pattern works beautifully when paired with neutral walls and other vintage fixtures, creating a balanced yet eye-catching design.
8. Add Ornate Mirrors with Vintage Frames
Mirrors were a key decorative element in bathrooms during the 1920s, often framed with intricate designs to elevate the space. Ornate, vintage-inspired mirrors in materials like gold, chrome, or brass can create a stunning focal point in your bathroom while enhancing the overall vintage atmosphere.
For a truly authentic look, look for mirrors with beveled edges or those that incorporate geometric patterns or floral motifs. These details will bring a sense of luxury to your bathroom while staying true to the 1920s aesthetic.
9. Use Gold or Brass Fixtures for a Luxe Touch
The 1920s was a decade that celebrated opulence, and nothing says luxury quite like gold or brass fixtures. From faucets to towel bars, choosing fixtures in these rich metals adds a touch of sophistication and glamour to your bathroom.
Look for faucets, showerheads, or cabinet hardware in polished brass or antique gold finishes. These metals not only give off an elegant, vintage feel but also complement the overall Art Deco and 1920s-inspired design elements in your bathroom.
10. Layer with Luxurious Fabrics Like Velvet and Silk
During the 1920s, bathrooms weren’t just utilitarian spaces—they were places of relaxation and luxury. To evoke that lavish feel, consider incorporating luxurious fabrics like velvet and silk into your bathroom decor. Think velvet shower curtains, silk towels, or a plush bath mat that feels soft and indulgent.
You could also layer a vintage-style armchair with a velvet cushion for a cozy corner, creating an opulent retreat where you can unwind. The addition of these tactile, plush elements will bring your vintage bathroom to life, adding warmth and texture to the space.
11. Vintage Wallpaper with Floral or Damask Prints
Wallpaper was a popular way to add character to a bathroom in the 1920s, and floral or damask prints were particularly in vogue. These vintage patterns bring a soft, romantic charm to the space while maintaining the sophisticated, elegant feel that defines the era.
Look for wallpaper that features soft, muted colors or go for a bold, contrasting print with gold or silver accents to make a statement. Damask prints in particular add a regal touch, creating an elegant atmosphere that transports you to a more glamorous time.
12. Create an Elegant Vanity Area
In the 1920s, bathroom vanities were often as luxurious as those in living rooms. Incorporate an elegant vanity with ornate detailing, such as carved wooden legs or mirrored surfaces, to reflect the opulence of the era.
Consider a vintage-style vanity with a marble countertop or a mirrored vanity table to enhance the retro feel. Add a vintage stool or plush chair for a complete vanity area that feels like a glamorous beauty nook, perfect for getting ready in the morning.
13. Incorporate Period-Specific Artworks and Prints
Nothing adds charm to a vintage-inspired bathroom quite like art. In the 1920s, framed prints, posters, and even paintings adorned bathroom walls to elevate the space. To stay true to the era, look for period-specific artwork featuring geometric shapes, flapper-style women, or even abstract designs.
Consider framing vintage advertisements or old movie posters in black and white, or go for a more subtle approach with framed botanical prints or classic photography. Artworks with metallic frames or rich colors will help tie the vintage look together.
14. Add Shimmering Mirror Tile Accents
Mirror tiles were an incredibly popular design choice in the 1920s, adding an extra layer of glamour and sophistication. Installing mirrored tiles as a backsplash or accent wall can make your bathroom feel more spacious while reflecting light to brighten up the room.
Whether you choose a full mirrored wall or just small sections behind the sink or vanity, these shimmering tiles will bring a touch of Art Deco elegance to your space.
15. Mix and Match Patterns for a Bold Statement
The 1920s was a decade full of daring design choices, and mixing patterns was one of the era’s hallmarks. Don’t be afraid to combine geometric patterns, florals, and stripes to create a bold, dynamic look in your bathroom. Consider a black and white chevron floor, paired with a floral wallpaper, or add a geometric rug to anchor the space.
By mixing patterns in a thoughtful, balanced way, you can create a bathroom that feels both eclectic and true to the era, filled with personality and vintage flair.
16. Introduce Art Deco-Inspired Hardware and Accessories
One of the easiest ways to infuse your bathroom with 1920s style is through Art Deco-inspired hardware and accessories. During the 1920s, even the smallest details like towel bars, hooks, and drawer pulls were designed to be both functional and visually striking.
Look for hardware with geometric lines, clean angles, and a mix of materials such as chrome, brass, or glass. For a luxurious touch, opt for pieces with chrome detailing paired with black or white porcelain. Even something as simple as a vintage-style soap dish or toothbrush holder can help create an elegant, period-specific look that ties your whole bathroom design together.
17. Go for Vintage-Style Toilets and Bidets
In the 1920s, bathrooms were places of both function and beauty, and vintage-style toilets and bidets were a key part of the design. High-tank toilets with exposed pipes were incredibly popular, and they evoke a sense of nostalgia and timelessness.
You can still find these vintage toilets today, complete with brass or chrome fixtures. Pair them with a classic bidet for added authenticity. While these vintage pieces may require a little extra care and maintenance, they’ll make a bold statement and transport your bathroom back to the glamour of the 1920s.
18. Add a Touch of Luxurious Marble
Nothing says luxury like marble, and during the 1920s, it was a favorite material for creating opulent bathrooms. Marble not only adds a sense of refinement and sophistication but also brings an element of natural beauty to the space.
Consider using marble for your countertops, floors, or even as a feature wall behind your vanity or tub. You can also incorporate smaller marble accents, such as marble shelves or tile borders, to add texture and interest. The elegance of marble will instantly elevate your bathroom, making it feel both timeless and luxurious.
19. Integrate Subway Tile Showers for Vintage Charm
If you love the classic appeal of subway tiles, why not take it a step further and incorporate them into your shower? Subway tile showers were commonly seen in 1920s bathrooms, providing both a clean, timeless look and a durable surface for a wet environment.
For a vintage twist, use a dark grout color like black or charcoal to add depth and contrast. You can also opt for white tiles with a glossy finish to reflect light, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere. Adding vintage-inspired shower hardware, such as a brass showerhead and towel rails, will complete the look.
20. Install a Stylish Freestanding Shower Curtain Rod
For those who love the look of a freestanding shower area, a stylish shower curtain rod can add a touch of vintage flair to your bathroom. The freestanding rod was a popular design choice in the 1920s, offering flexibility and a more open, airy feel to the bathroom.
Look for a curved or straight rod in chrome, brass, or polished nickel to complement your 1920s-inspired design. A luxurious, vintage-patterned shower curtain in fabric like silk or velvet can further enhance the look, creating a seamless blend of elegance and practicality.
21. Incorporate Glass Shower Doors with Decorative Details
Glass shower doors with decorative details, such as etched patterns or frosted glass, were also a trend in the 1920s. These doors offer both privacy and an elegant visual appeal, while allowing light to flow freely through the bathroom.
Look for glass doors with Art Deco patterns or subtle geometric etching to bring a touch of the period into your space. These stylish doors not only look great but also give your bathroom an airy, open feel, making them an excellent choice for smaller bathrooms.
22. Create a Cozy Bathroom Lounge Area
In the 1920s, bathrooms were designed to be spaces of relaxation and luxury. To recreate this ambiance, consider adding a vintage lounge area to your bathroom. This could be as simple as a vintage armchair, a plush stool, or even a chaise lounge tucked in a corner.
Look for furniture in period-appropriate materials like velvet, leather, or silk. Adding a small side table or a decorative tray with vintage perfume bottles can further enhance the cozy, luxurious feel of the space. This lounge area gives your bathroom a spa-like atmosphere and makes it feel like an indulgent retreat.
23. Opt for Vintage Storage Solutions
Vintage storage solutions are not only practical but also add to the overall charm of your 1920s-inspired bathroom. Look for antique cabinets, wicker baskets, or glass jars that can hold toiletries or towels in style.
An antique medicine cabinet with mirrored doors is a great option for adding both storage and vintage flair. You could also repurpose a vintage console table or a small chest of drawers for additional storage, making sure that every piece in your bathroom complements the era’s design aesthetic.
24. Embrace the Power of Statement Tiles
If you’re ready to make a bold design statement, consider using statement tiles to create a unique focal point in your bathroom. Statement tiles with bold colors or intricate patterns were a signature of 1920s bathrooms, and they continue to be a powerful way to add personality to your space.
Consider using large, colorful tiles in Art Deco patterns for the floor, or incorporate intricate geometric tiles as a backsplash behind your vanity. Mixing bold patterns with softer, neutral tiles will help balance the space and keep the design cohesive.
25. Choose Retro-Inspired Shower Curtains
Shower curtains were an essential part of 1920s bathroom design, with vintage patterns and luxurious fabrics being a key feature. Choose a retro-inspired shower curtain in a bold floral print, geometric design, or Art Deco pattern to tie the look together.
Consider opting for rich fabrics like velvet or silk for a more luxurious feel. You could even go the extra mile by adding decorative fringe or beading to the edges of the curtain for an added vintage touch.
26. Include a Classic Vanity Mirror with Side Lighting
A classic vanity mirror with side lighting was a staple of 1920s bathrooms, providing both functionality and style. These mirrors typically had elegant, vintage-style frames and were flanked by wall sconces or light fixtures to create a flattering glow.
Look for mirrors with intricate detailing and consider installing vintage-style sconces on either side for a symmetrical and balanced look. These mirrors not only help with your daily grooming routine but also add a touch of glamour to your bathroom.
27. Use Timeless Brass or Chrome Towel Bars and Hooks
To complete your 1920s bathroom look, add vintage-style brass or chrome towel bars and hooks. These small but impactful details help enhance the period feel while also being highly functional.
Brass towel bars with decorative detailing can create a beautiful contrast against white or marble walls, while chrome hooks will bring a sleek, polished look to the space. These elements will make your bathroom feel like it was plucked right out of the 1920s.
28. Incorporate a Retro Style Radiator for Heat and Aesthetic
During the 1920s, radiators were often designed to be as stylish as they were functional. Choose a vintage-inspired radiator to bring both warmth and style into your bathroom. Whether you go for an antique cast-iron radiator or a more modern version with vintage details, it will add a charming touch to the room.
Consider choosing a radiator in brass or chrome for a luxe feel, and place it near your tub or vanity for extra warmth on chilly mornings.
29. Create a Vintage-Inspired Color Palette
Finally, the color palette you choose will set the tone for your 1920s-inspired bathroom. Soft pastels like mint green, lavender, and pale pink were popular during this era, as well as deep, rich colors like navy blue, emerald green, and burgundy.
Pair these colors with classic black, white, and metallics like gold or chrome for a balanced and timeless look. You can use these colors on the walls, tiles, and even in your accessories to create a cohesive and vintage-inspired space.
Conclusion: Bring the Glamour of the 1920s to Your Bathroom
The 1920s was an era defined by luxury, opulence, and bold design choices, and these 29 stylish bathroom ideas will help you infuse your space with timeless vintage charm. Whether you’re drawn to the geometric elegance of Art Deco, the glamorous allure of gold and brass, or the relaxed luxury of a clawfoot tub, there are endless ways to create a bathroom that feels both nostalgic and contemporary.
By thoughtfully incorporating these 1920s-inspired ideas into your bathroom design, you’ll create a space that not only reflects the beauty of the past but also meets the practical needs of modern life. So, step back in time and transform your bathroom into a vintage oasis that radiates style and sophistication.
