Giving your bathroom an arts and crafts overhaul can transform the space into a relaxing, spa-like retreat. Combining natural materials and classic details embraces the arts and crafts aesthetic for a timeless update. Installing a soaking tub makes the bathroom even more rejuvenating. Follow these tips to give your bathroom an arts and crafts facelift complete with a soothing soaking tub.

Selecting Arts and Crafts Style Fixtures

When selecting fixtures, focus on simple forms and natural materials like porcelain, copper, bronze, and nickel for an authentic arts and crafts look.

Faucets

• Go for a wall-mounted or freestanding tub filler in an aged bronze, brushed nickel, oil-rubbed bronze or polished chrome finish. Angular, geometric shapes work well. Add vintage charm with cross handles.
• For the sink, choose a widespread faucet with a tall arched spout and lever or cross handles. A two-handle bridge faucet also fits the aesthetic. Matte black, brushed nickel, and oil-rubbed bronze are fitting finish options.
• Prioritize function when picking shower fixtures. Rainfall showerheads promote relaxation while hand showers make cleaning convenient. Select a finish that coordinates with the other fixtures.

Lighting

• Vintage-style sconces flanking the mirror provide soft, ambient lighting. Opt for a metal like aged bronze in a simple design.
• Pendant lights over the tub or sink continue the vintage vibe. Stick to naked filament bulbs or shaped opaque shades.
• Install recessed can lights to illuminate the overall space without detracting from the arts and crafts style.

Hardware

Iron or bronze drawer pulls and knobs with simple, geometric shapes add an extra layer of arts and crafts detail. Bring in warmth with a rustic oil-rubbed bronze finish.

Mirror

An oval, arched, or rectangular mirror plays up the arts and crafts vibe. Opt for an antiqued bronze frame for a vintage touch. Lean into the retro style with sconces on both sides.

Selecting an Arts and Crafts Color Palette

Earthy, neutral colors embody the arts and crafts aesthetic. Natural textures like stone and wood also promote the relaxed style.

Paint Colors

• Soft greens, sages, and pale blues are calming paint colors suited for a spa-like arts and crafts bathroom.
• Warm neutrals like beige, tan, and cream allow the wood tones and natural textures to stand out.
• For more contrast, pair subdued blues and greens with rich neutrals like brown, black, or charcoal.
• Paint the ceiling a light blue or soft white to give the illusion of a sky overhead.

Materials

• Natural stone like marble, travertine, or limestone brings organic texture. Use stone slabs or tiles for surfaces like floors, walls, and counters.
• Unfinished, reclaimed, or distressed wood adds warmth. Use it for accents like floating shelves, trim, or a console table.
• Wicker baskets provide natural storage. Incorporate them in place of standard cabinets.
• Tile or concrete floors have an earthy, grounded feel. Hexagonal or geometric tiles nod to arts and crafts motifs.

Creating a Spa-Like Soaking Tub Area

A freestanding tub makes a stunning focal point while providing a relaxing soak. Design the surrounding space to enhance the spa-like vibe.

Tub Placement

• Situate the tub facing windows or double doors to connect the indoor and outdoor spaces. This placement allows you to soak while enjoying the view.
• Let the tub take center stage by placing it in an open area without visual barriers. Keep floor space around it clear to highlight the sculptural design.
• Tuck the tub into an alcove to make it feel like a separated spa room within the bathroom. Partially enclosing the space with half walls or curtains boosts the sanctuary vibe.

Tub Design

• A sleek contemporary tub contrasts nicely with vintage-inspired fixtures for an eclectic arts and crafts style.
• Opt for a classic slipper tub with claw feet for serious retro charm. Position it on a decorative rug.
• Go for an oval, curved, or rounded shape for a soothing organic feel. Built-in seating follows body contours for maximum relaxation.

Relaxing Tub Features

• Whirlpool tubs provide massaging jets for the ultimate spa experience.
• Install chromatherapy lighting to set calming moods with colored lights.
• Choose a tub with inline heaters to keep the bath warm until you are ready to get out.
• Look for a tub with a high overflow drain to allow for deeper soaking.

Tub Surround

• A simple shower curtain in linen, cotton, or hemp maintains the laid-back vibe.
• Frame the tub area with breezy woven panels or bamboo screens for privacy and natural texture.
• Add character with tiles like Moroccan fish scale, while maintaining the earthy color scheme.
• Install a window above the tub to connect the indoor and outdoor while soaking.

Incorporating Arts and Crafts Storage Solutions

Maintain the relaxed, spa-like environment by keeping necessities at hand without clutter. Use arts and crafts style storage solutions to tuck items neatly away.

Freestanding Furniture

• A washstand with a marble top provides an arts and crafts look while keeping plumbing hidden.
• An antique side table or console fits neatly in a corner to hold folded towels and bath accessories.
• Set a dresser-style vanity against a wall for drawers and cabinet storage space. Pick a natural wood finish with vintage charm.
• Place a wheeled vintage cart next to the tub to hold bath salts, candles, and reading material within easy reach.

Built-In Cabinets

• Work with a carpenter to add custom wood cabinets matching the vanity for ample arts and crafts style storage.
• Install glass-front upper cabinets to display candles, vases, or decorative bottles without cluttering up counter space.
• Opt for open shelving flanking the sink to hold neatly folded rolled towels and toiletries.

Baskets and Buckets

• Hide unsightly items like cleaning supplies in lidded wicker baskets tucked under open shelves or in a cabinet.
• Weave baskets into shelf displays to hold bath accessories. Mix metals like brass and copper for interest.
• Stash extra towels in galvanized buckets to add farmhouse charm. Label them neatly with chalkboard tags.

Wainscoting and Paneling

• Line walls with beadboard paneling. Then add recessed medicine cabinets to conceal necessities.
• Install wood wainscoting with a wall-mounted cabinet created to match for a seamless arts and crafts look.

Designing an Arts and Crafts Bathroom Layout

Strategically mapping out the bathroom layout promotes an open, airy arts and crafts style space.

Space Planning

• Situate the tub in the center of the longest wall with the sink on the adjacent wall for separation between wet and dry areas.
• Place the toilet and bidet on the same wall in a “his and hers” configuration for efficiency.
• Allow ample walkways between each area. At least 32 inches between walls and fixtures prevents a cramped feeling.

Zoning

• Define separate activity areas like soaking, grooming, and necessities through layout and design details.
• Use area rugs, lighting arrangements, and half walls or screens to delineate each zone.
• Place the tub in an alcove to define it as a separate spa space within the larger bathroom.

Fixtures and Furnishings

• Float the vanity in the middle of the sink wall to create openness and flexibility.
• Incorporate a console table or antique dresser for character rather than standard built-ins.
• Arrange wicker baskets and wood shelves for open, organized storage rather than abundant closed cabinets.

Doors and Windows

• Windows positioned above the tub connect indoor and outdoor spaces. Casement windows swing open to let in fresh air.
• Double doors lend an airy, welcoming feel at the entrance while sliding barn doors save space between rooms.
• A clawfoot soaking tub placed in front of a sunny window or set of French doors makes a stunning focal point.

Materials

• Warm wood flooring contrasts nicely with cool stone walls and surfaces.
• Natural materials like jute, cotton, linen, and hemp work for rugs, curtains panels, and towels.
• Classic subway tile, weathered wood, and concrete evoke old-world charm.

Arts and Crafts Bathroom Elements to Highlight

Focusing on key details embraces the vintage arts and crafts aesthetic while creating comfort and functionality.

Bathtub Area

Highlight a statement-making soaking tub as the central focus. Consider a freestanding tub in a nice rounded or oval shape. Situate it facing large bright windows or double doors to connect indoor and outdoor spaces.

Storage Solutions

Incorporate wooden shelves, antique carts, vintage dressers, and wicker baskets for character and organization while limiting builtin cabinetry. Floating shelves flanking the sink neatly display toiletries.

Lighting

Install vintage-style sconces, pendant lights, and recessed can lighting. Naked filament bulbs or shaped opaque shades enhance the ambiance. Position sconces flanking the mirror over the vanity.

Texture and Materials

Use natural, tactile materials like stone, tile, concrete, unfinished wood, galvanized metal, wicker, cotton, jute, linen, and hemp. Incorporate reclaimed wood accents and vintage-style hardware and fixtures.

Relaxed Color Palette

Opt for muted earthy neutrals like cream, beige, sage, light blue, and mossy green. Rich wood stains also fit the aesthetic. Accent with black, charcoal, or brown for contrast.

Layout and Spaciousness

Allow ample walking room between each area. Float the vanity and use wheeled carts and assorted freestanding furniture in lieu of extensive built-ins. Frame the tub area with half walls or breezy panels.

FAQs About Arts and Crafts Style Bathrooms

What colors work well in an arts and crafts bathroom?

Neutral earth tones like cream, beige, light mossy greens, sage, and sky blue capture the essence of arts and crafts style. Rich wood stains also complement the aesthetic. Add pops of black, charcoal, or chocolate brown for contrast.

What kind of tile is best for an arts and crafts bathroom?

Subway tile, hexagonal tile, and stone tiles in neutral colors reinforce the vintage style. Handmade encaustic tiles add artisanal charm. Keep the palette muted and natural.

What type of tub works best in an arts and crafts bathroom?

A freestanding tub makes a sculptural statement. For a classic arts and crafts look, opt for a slipper tub with claw feet. Oval, curved, and round organic shapes feel soothing. Make sure to position the tub thoughtfully.

Should I install a shower in an arts and crafts bathroom?

Certainly. Choose rainfall overhead and handheld showerheads for a spa vibe. Installing the shower separately from the soaking tub helps differentiate spaces while optimizing both experiences.

What kind of vanity and fixtures work best for this style?

Aim for vintage charm with a vanity reminiscent of an antique dresser or washstand. Cross handles and oil-rubbed bronze finishes reinforce the old-world style. Bridge faucets also complement arts and crafts decor.

How can I add storage to my arts and crafts bathroom?

Incorporate wicker baskets, wall-mounted cabinets matching the vanity, open shelving flanking the sink, and antique carts or side tables. Built-in drawers under a console sink boost storage.

Should I install recessed lighting?

Yes. Recessed can lights provide ambient illumination without detracting from the vintage style of the pendant lights and sconces. Place recessed lighting strategically to make the overall space functional.

Transforming Your Bathroom with Arts and Crafts Style and a Soaking Tub

With its emphasis on craftsmanship and natural materials, embracing arts and crafts style results in a bathroom that feels like a relaxing getaway. Including a spacious soaking tub makes the space even more rejuvenating. Carefully selecting fixtures, finishes, and furnishings with vintage charm creates a cohesive aesthetic. Giving thoughtful consideration to the layout promotes openness and functionality. Once complete, your new arts and crafts bathroom will inspire you to relax and unwind.

Conclusion

With an abundant use of natural materials, vintage-inspired details, and a soothing soaking tub, an arts and crafts bathroom overhaul results in a warm, welcoming, and calming space. Carefully planning the layout allows you to thoughtfully highlight the dazzling freestanding tub that acts as a sanctuary within the larger bathroom. Simplified shapes in the stonework and tile along with muted earth-toned colors reinforce the timeless style. By embracing the arts and crafts design approach and integrating a spa-like soaking tub, you can transform your utilitarian bathroom into a relaxing, retreat-like space that encourages you to sit back, enjoy the view, and unwind.