Retro Vintage Bathrooms
A Nostalgic Blend of Glamour and Character
Bring back the charm of bygone eras with bold colours, curvy silhouettes, and timeless detailing. The Retro Vintage Bathroom celebrates personality and playfulness — blending the elegance of old-world design with modern practicality. Think checkerboard floors, fluted glass, brushed brass taps, and pops of colour that make your bathroom feel both chic and familiar.
Flooring Foundations — Classic Underfoot
- Go for checkerboard patterns, terrazzo, or small mosaics to capture that retro charm.
- Combine soft pastels with monochrome or go bold with vintage-inspired geometric tiles.
- Matte finishes feel more authentic than glossy; they ground the look with gentle texture.
- Consider border inlays or patterned tile frames to create definition.
- Keep grout lines crisp and contrasting — a hallmark of period styling.
- Warm the scheme with timber or brass accents nearby to avoid it feeling cold.
Feature Wall & Shower Space — Drama in Detail
- Feature walls come alive with coloured subway tiles, fluted glass, or pressed metal panels.
- Run tiles half-height with painted walls above for a classic wainscot effect.
- Choose deep teal, blush, mint, or mustard to channel true retro energy.
- Contrast with brass or black fittings for a timeless pop.
- Add vintage-style wall lights or globe sconces beside mirrors for a cinematic glow.
- Use patterned shower curtains or framed glass screens to reinforce the old-meets-new aesthetic.
Mirrors & Vanities — Glamour Reframed
- Choose ornate or scalloped mirrors to add a sense of vintage charm.
- Timber or painted vanities in muted tones (sage, blush, or cream) keep it authentic.
- Add fluted drawer fronts or antique-style handles for subtle texture.
- Floating designs can modernise the look while maintaining retro flair.
- Wall sconces or globe bulbs beside mirrors add instant period appeal.
- Finish with marble or terrazzo countertops for timeless polish.
Sanware & Taps — Curves & Character
- Choose rounded basins, pedestal sinks, or console vanities to echo mid-century forms.
- Freestanding clawfoot or slipper baths instantly anchor the retro narrative.
- Tapware in brushed brass, antique bronze, or blackcompletes the nostalgic palette.
- Cross-handle or lever mixers feel authentic while still functional.
- Pair ceramic details (like tap caps or waste covers) for subtle heritage notes.
- Layer the look with curved mirrors or globe lamps to
Lighting the Look — Warmth & Whimsy
- Use brass, frosted glass, or milk-globe pendants to set a nostalgic mood.
- Layer ceiling, wall, and accent lighting for warmth and function.
- Warm white bulbs (2700K) create that soft vintage glow.
- Consider statement ceiling lights or double sconces for a touch of theatre.
- Add subtle mirror backlighting to balance mood and practicality.
- Dimmer switches help recreate the soft ambience of a bygone era.
Styling & Finishing Touches — Character in the Details
- Style with patterned towels, vintage perfume bottles, and apothecary jars for instant charm.
- Add retro artwork or framed adverts to bring playfulness to the walls.
- Incorporate plants like ferns or ivy for a pop of natural life.
- Use brass trays and ceramic dishes for accessories and soaps.
- Mix pastel ceramics, glass vases, and woven texturesfor a curated yet nostalgic feel.
- Finish with a signature scent — think rose, vanilla, or amber — to complete the sensory story.
From Pinterest to Reality— Meet Our Design Team
Your saved pins and mood boards are the perfect starting point — our Bella Design Team helps turn those ideas into real, functional spaces. We’ll help you match colours, finishes, and fittings to build your unique take on retro elegance.
Shop the Look — Get Started on Your Design Journey
We’ve bundled a few of our favourite retro-inspired pieces to help you get started — a curated edit to spark your design journey and bring your vintage vision to life.
