The vintage modern bathroom is the perfect balance between classic elegance and contemporary design. It blends retro charm with sleek modern elements, giving your space a unique and timeless feel. Whether you love antique details, clawfoot tubs, brass fixtures, or subway tiles, these 15 vintage modern bathroom ideas will inspire your next remodel!
1. Clawfoot Tub with Sleek Fixtures
A clawfoot tub is a classic vintage element, but pairing it with modern fixtures creates a perfect blend of old and new.
How to Achieve the Look:
- Choose a white or black clawfoot tub for a vintage feel.
- Pair it with a sleek matte black or brushed gold faucet.
- Add a minimalist glass partition to modernize the space.
Picture This:
A freestanding clawfoot tub with gold feet sits near a large window, allowing natural light to pour in. The curved vintage tub stands on a checkered black-and-white floor, while an oversized potted plant adds an organic touch. A sleek black floor-mounted tub filler contrasts beautifully with the soft cream walls, while a vintage chandelier above adds just the right amount of glam.
2. Vintage Vanity with Modern Countertops
A vintage-inspired vanity with a modern marble or quartz countertop creates the perfect fusion of styles.
How to Achieve the Look:
- Use an antique dresser and convert it into a vanity.
- Top it with a sleek white quartz or marble countertop.
- Pair with a modern vessel sink and a vintage-style mirror.
Picture This:
An ornate wooden vanity with intricate carvings is given a modern refresh with a gleaming white marble countertop. Above it, a large gold-framed mirror reflects the light from a vintage-inspired globe pendant. On the counter, a porcelain soap dish, brass-finished faucet, and a small glass vase of fresh flowers add a delicate touch of vintage charm.
3. Black and White Tile Flooring
Classic black-and-white tile floors are a staple in vintage bathrooms, but pairing them with modern cabinetry makes them feel fresh.
How to Achieve the Look:
- Use hexagon, penny, or checkerboard tiles for a vintage vibe.
- Pair with a floating vanity for a modern touch.
- Keep walls light and neutral for balance.
Picture This:
A black-and-white penny tile floor leads to a floating white vanity with gold hardware. Against the wall, a vintage-style clawfoot tub with a brass faucet sits beneath a large arched window, offering a view of the lush greenery outside. A mid-century inspired chair with velvet upholstery in the corner adds a subtle, luxurious feel.
4. Brass or Gold Fixtures for a Luxe Vintage Touch
Brass and gold fixtures add a warm, vintage feel while still maintaining a contemporary elegance.
How to Achieve the Look:
- Choose brushed brass faucets, showerheads, and hardware.
- Pair with neutral tiles and a classic pedestal sink.
- Add modern lighting for a fresh contrast.
Picture This:
A walk-in shower with a brass rain showerhead glistens under the warm glow of Art Deco sconces. A pedestal sink with gold cross-handle faucets is topped by a curved vintage mirror, while a brass towel rack with fluffy white towels sits nearby. The space feels timeless yet refined, perfectly balancing old and new.
5. Art Deco Mirrors for a Glamorous Touch
Art Deco design adds bold geometric shapes and vintage flair, creating a chic yet modern bathroom.
How to Achieve the Look:
- Use gold-framed mirrors with unique silhouettes.
- Pair with sleek sconces or a globe chandelier.
- Add black-and-white elements for contrast.
Picture This:
A large gold-rimmed Art Deco mirror hangs above a floating marble vanity with brass hardware. Soft light from globe sconces with frosted glass bathes the space in a warm glow. Nearby, a small antique tray holds perfume bottles, a pearl-adorned hairbrush, and a crystal jar filled with cotton balls.
6. Retro Lighting with a Modern Twist
Vintage-inspired lighting sets the mood, while sleek designs keep it contemporary.
How to Achieve the Look:
- Choose schoolhouse pendant lights or globe sconces.
- Mix with recessed lighting for a modern touch.
- Use warm LED bulbs for a cozy ambiance.
Picture This:
A milk-glass pendant light with brass detailing hangs from a ceiling adorned with vintage-inspired wallpaper. Below, a mid-century vanity with a terrazzo countertop holds a sleek, black-rimmed mirror flanked by globe sconces. The soft golden light reflects off subtle gold flecks in the terrazzo, creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
7. Freestanding Sink with Open Shelving
A classic pedestal or console sink paired with modern open shelving keeps things light and airy.
How to Achieve the Look:
- Use a white porcelain pedestal sink.
- Install floating wooden shelves for storage.
- Mix with modern accessories like matte black fixtures.
Picture This:
A sleek white pedestal sink with brass fixtures is positioned against a dark emerald green accent wall. Above it, open wooden shelves hold glass jars filled with cotton swabs, antique perfume bottles, and neatly rolled towels. A small round gold mirror adds a finishing touch, reflecting the warm glow from a single brass sconce overhead.
8. Subway Tile Walls for a Timeless Look
Subway tiles are a vintage bathroom staple, but pairing them with bold grout or modern accents keeps the space fresh and contemporary.
How to Achieve the Look:
- Choose classic white subway tiles with dark grout for contrast.
- Use oversized subway tiles for a modern twist.
- Pair with brass or matte black fixtures for a striking balance.
Picture This:
A bright white subway-tiled wall stretches from floor to ceiling, adding a timeless backdrop to a black floating vanity with gold handles. A large round mirror with a gold rim hangs above, reflecting the glow of vintage-inspired Edison bulb sconces. To the side, a walk-in shower with matte black framing features a rainfall showerhead, blending vintage character with modern luxury.
9. Vintage Wallpaper for an Elegant Statement
Vintage-style wallpaper adds charm and personality to a bathroom while complementing modern elements.
How to Achieve the Look:
- Choose floral, toile, or Art Deco-inspired wallpaper.
- Keep the rest of the bathroom minimal to balance the look.
- Pair with a modern vanity or sleek glass shower enclosure.
Picture This:
A powder blue floral wallpaper with delicate gold accents covers the upper half of the walls, while the lower half is adorned with white wainscoting. A brass-framed round mirror sits above a freestanding marble sink, while vintage-style sconces with frosted glass shades cast a warm glow. The result? A soft, feminine space with timeless elegance.
10. Antique Dresser Turned Vanity
Repurposing an antique dresser into a bathroom vanity combines history with modern function.
How to Achieve the Look:
- Find an ornate wooden dresser and refinish it.
- Add a modern quartz or marble countertop.
- Pair with a vessel sink and a sleek faucet.
Picture This:
A rich mahogany antique dresser with intricate carvings has been transformed into a gorgeous vanity, complete with a white marble countertop. Above it, a large gilded mirror reflects the light from a globe pendant chandelier. On the vanity top, a crystal soap dispenser and a small vintage tray holding perfume bottles add a touch of old-world glamour.
11. Statement Bathtub with Modern Accents
A vintage-style bathtub can serve as the focal point of the bathroom while being paired with modern accessories.
How to Achieve the Look:
- Choose a freestanding copper, cast-iron, or slipper tub.
- Pair it with sleek fixtures like a floor-mounted tub filler.
- Add a minimalist glass partition for contrast.
Picture This:
A deep copper slipper tub with claw feet sits atop a herringbone-patterned tile floor, exuding warmth and vintage elegance. Next to it, a matte black freestanding tub filler adds a modern edge, while a plush white bath mat lies underfoot. A wooden bath tray with candles and a book invites relaxation, making the space feel like a true retreat.
12. Industrial Vintage Elements for an Edgy Look
Mixing industrial accents with vintage details creates a stylish and edgy aesthetic.
How to Achieve the Look:
- Use exposed pipe shelving or metal fixtures.
- Choose weathered wood vanities for a rustic touch.
- Pair with Edison bulb lighting and black-framed mirrors.
Picture This:
A black-framed glass shower enclosure creates a bold contrast against exposed brick walls. Overhead, an iron pipe light fixture with Edison bulbs casts a warm glow, highlighting a weathered wood vanity with matte black hardware. On the open shelving, amber glass bottles and vintage apothecary jars hold bathroom essentials, adding to the industrial charm.
13. Vintage-Inspired Freestanding Cabinet for Storage
Instead of built-in cabinetry, a freestanding vintage cabinet adds character and functionality.
How to Achieve the Look:
- Look for an antique glass-front cabinet.
- Paint it in a soft pastel or distressed white finish.
- Use it to store towels, candles, and toiletries.
Picture This:
A cream-colored freestanding cabinet with glass doors stands in the corner, filled with neatly rolled towels, porcelain jars, and antique perfume bottles. The distressed paint finish adds a touch of history, while a small vase of fresh lavender on top brings a soothing, spa-like feel.
14. Ornate Gold or Bronze Accents for a Luxe Feel
Gold and bronze accents bring a luxurious vintage feel while keeping the space elegant.
How to Achieve the Look:
- Choose gold or bronze fixtures, mirrors, and hardware.
- Pair with neutral tiles and marble surfaces.
- Add vintage-inspired accessories like crystal knobs.
Picture This:
A large, gilded mirror with intricate detailing hangs above a floating marble vanity with gold handles. The warm glow from vintage-style brass sconces enhances the space, while a freestanding bronze towel rack holds plush white towels. On the counter, a small antique glass tray with perfume bottles and gold-rimmed soap dishes completes the luxurious look.
15. Repurposed Vintage Window as a Decorative Accent
A reclaimed vintage window can serve as a unique decorative feature in your bathroom.
How to Achieve the Look:
- Use an antique window frame as a mirror or wall decor.
- Choose a distressed or painted window for a rustic look.
- Hang it above a freestanding tub or vanity for charm.
Picture This:
An old white-painted window frame with delicate arches is repurposed as a mirror above a vintage pedestal sink. The chipped paint and weathered wood tell a story, adding a rustic, lived-in feel. A small vase of wildflowers sits on the windowsill, reflecting the charm of old-world elegance mixed with modern sensibility.
Conclusion
A vintage modern bathroom is all about blending nostalgia with contemporary elegance. Whether you prefer classic clawfoot tubs, Art Deco mirrors, or sleek fixtures, these ideas help you create a space that’s both timeless and trendy. By mixing rich textures, elegant materials, and striking contrasts, you can transform your bathroom into a sanctuary of vintage charm with modern sophistication.
