How to Create a Victorian Style Bathroom: Elegant, Nostalgic & Timeless

How to Create a Victorian Style Bathroom: Elegant, Nostalgic & Timeless

The Victorian era is often remembered as a time of immense power and wealth in Britain — an age marked by Queen Victoria’s long reign, economic prosperity, and exciting advances in technology, from steam trains to the very first plumbing systems.

Today, with so much uncertainty in the world, there’s something especially comforting about bringing a touch of that old-world elegance into your own home. A Victorian style bathroom does exactly that, wrapping you in a space that feels rich, soothing and undeniably timeless.

Not sure where to begin? Here’s our guide to crafting your own Victorian-inspired retreat.

🕰 A Quick Look Back: When Was the Victorian Era?

The Victorian period spanned from 20 June 1837 to 22 January 1901, during Queen Victoria’s reign over the United Kingdom.

It was an era of incredible change. Economic growth meant more households could afford decorative items that showed off their social standing. It was also when major home improvements first took hold — like the introduction of indoor plumbing in the late 1800s, which forever changed how bathrooms looked and functioned.

🎨 Key Features of a Victorian Style Bathroom

Victorian bathrooms are the very picture of sophistication. Here’s what defines them:

✅ Deep, bold colour palettes: Think rich wood tones, dramatic wallpapers and elegant dark cabinetry.

✅ Intricate patterns: From floral or damask wallpapers to hand-painted porcelain tiles, pattern was a clear signal of wealth and taste.

✅ Traditional tapware: Polished brass or ornate cross-head faucets were the norm, paired with classic porcelain details.

Want to capture this look in your remodel? Keep these hallmarks in mind so your new bathroom feels genuinely vintage — not just a modern room with a few old pieces thrown in.

🛁 The Bathtub: Always a Centerpiece

No Victorian style bathroom is complete without the right bathtub.

• The era popularized freestanding baths, many of them made of porcelain with claw feet and dual hot & cold taps.

• These baths were a clear sign of luxury back then — and they remain one today.

When you start planning your design, choose your bath and its faucets first. Build your wallpaper, floors and vanity around this statement piece. It’s far easier (and more authentic) than trying to squeeze the tub in at the end.

🔍 Victorian Bathroom Design Help

It might sound like a lot to piece together on your own. That’s where we come in.

At Bella Bathrooms, we love helping homeowners recreate timeless spaces. Whether you’re looking for freestanding bathtubs, classic brass taps, or hand-painted tiles that capture the essence of the era, we’ll guide you step by step.

✅ Browse our dedicated Victorian style bathroom ideas on our website.
✅ Or simply pop us a message. We’ll help you get one step closer to your dream bathroom — so you can light the candles, pour a glass of wine, and soak like royalty.

🏠 Ready to Design Your Victorian Escape?

👉 Visit our Johannesburg showroom or explore our online collection to bring your vintage-inspired bathroom to life.
Questions? Get in touch — the Bella Bathrooms team is here to help make sure your space feels every bit as exquisite as you’ve imagined.