Converting a 19th-century bedroom into a modern bathroom is no easy task, but with careful planning and design it can result in a beautifully updated and functional space. When undertaking a renovation of this magnitude, preserving the original character and architectural details of the room should be a top priority. At the same time, installing modern plumbing and amenities is essential to creating a usable bathroom. With some creativity and compromise between old and new, you can have the best of both worlds.
Evaluating the Existing Layout and Features
When beginning a renovation of a 19th-century bedroom into a bathroom, the first step is to thoroughly evaluate the existing layout and architectural details of the space. Take note of the following:
- Size and proportions of the room. Is there enough space for the desired bathroom layout? Are any walls load-bearing that cannot be moved?
- Windows and natural light. Are there windows to allow natural light into the bathroom? If not, lighting upgrades will be required.
- Original doors and hardware. Do the original doors and hardware add character that should be preserved? Can they be adapted for bathroom use?
- Moldings and trimwork. Take note of any ornate or unique moldings, baseboards, cornices, etc. that contribute to the 19th-century style.
- Flooring material. Does the existing floor need to be replaced to accommodate plumbing?
- Ceiling details. Are there medallions, beams, or other ornamental details to highlight?
Documenting the existing conditions thoroughly will inform the design process on what can and should be preserved vs. altered for the new bathroom layout. Photos and measurements are extremely helpful references.
Designing and Planning for a 19th-Century Style Bathroom
When designing a 19th-century bedroom into a stylish, modern bathroom, there are a few key considerations:
Layout
- Allow room for all desired bathroom fixtures (toilet, sink, tub and/or shower, storage, etc.)
- Include clear space for moving around each fixture.
- Strategically place plumbing lines and drains to minimize alterations to original flooring and walls.
- Consider sightlines from doors and windows for privacy.
Fixtures and Finishes
- Select historically inspired plumbing fixtures and hardware with vintage styling.
- Choose porcelain, cast iron, or enameled metal bathtubs and sinks rather than modern acrylic.
- Pick floor and wall tile, paint colors, window coverings, and accessories that coordinate with the era.
- Incorporate antique lighting fixtures or sconces to complement the age of the home.
Preservation
- Refinish and repurpose original wood floors if possible.
- Restore original doors and hardware; replace only if necessary.
- Retain and highlight ornamental moldings, medallions, cornices and trim.
- Carefully remove any original walls or architectural elements; patch and repair rather than replace.
Modern Amenities
- Include recessed lighting on dimmers to supplement antique fixtures.
- Install a thermostatic shower system for comfort and safety.
- Choose user-friendly vanities and storage solutions to hide modern necessities.
- Update electrical, heating, and plumbing systems for functionality.
Careful attention to these design considerations will allow for a seamless blend of 19th-century old-world charm and modern-day convenience.
Key Elements for Converting a Bedroom into a Bathroom
Converting an existing bedroom into a functional bathroom requires addressing several important elements in the renovation process.
Plumbing
The location of existing water supply lines in the home will inform where sink, toilet, tub, and shower plumbing can be installed in the new bathroom. Running new supply lines specifically for the bathroom will likely be required. Strategically planning all water supply and drain lines is critical.
Electrical and Lighting
Updating electrical wiring and adding new circuits will be required to support bathroom ventilation, lighting fixtures, outlets, and any electric appliances like heated floors or towel warmers. Ambient, task, and decorative lighting should be incorporated.
Floor Plan and Layout
Carefully evaluate the existing dimensions and footprint of the bedroom space to accommodate desired bathroom features. Determine the optimal placement of each fixture and appliance. Create a detailed floor plan.
Tub and/or Shower
Choose a tub and/or shower enclosure suited to the available space. Custom sizes may be required. Plan for accessible installation allowing ample headroom and entry clearance. Select waterproof surround materials.
Ventilation
Proper ventilation is essential to prevent mold and mildew. Exhaust fans, operable windows, and HVAC upgrades may be needed. Preventing humidity buildup is key.
Storage and Vanities
Include bathroom storage solutions like cabinets, shelves, and vanities tailored to the space. Confirm all plumbing can be accessed as needed. Adequate lighting at vanities is important.
Walls and Surfaces
Walls may need reframing or moving to accommodate the new layout. Water-resistant drywall, tile, or other washable surfaces should be installed. Any surfaces should withstand moisture.
Doors and Windows
Ensure doors swing properly into the room and provide ventilation as needed. Windows, if existing, should be fitted with obscuring glass or window treatments for privacy as necessary.
Addressing these key elements thoroughly will result in a safe, functional, and comfortable new bathroom suited to a converted 19th-century bedroom space.
Preserving Architectural Details and Period Elements
When converting a 19th-century bedroom into a bathroom, retaining the original period details and architectural elements helps maintain the historic character and visual appeal of the space. Here are some key tips:
- Restore original wood floors – Refinish existing wood floors rather than replace them to preserve the historic charm. Sealing properly will help withstand bathroom humidity.
- Salvage vintage doors and hardware – Repair and refinish original doors and hinges rather than replace. Vintage lever or crystal door knobs also add elegance.
- Reuse or uncover decorative trimwork – Carefully remove any coverings to expose lovely chair rails, baseboards, crown molding, or picture rails from the era.
- Touch up existing plaster medallions – Ornate medallions or decorative molding on ceilings can be preserved by gentle restoration and repainting.
- Update original fireplace surrounds – For bedrooms with existing fireplaces, convert the surround into built-in shelving or bathroom storage while keeping the original style.
- Adapt vintage light fixtures – Rewire and restore antique light fixtures like sconces to complement the period style instead of using modern flushmounts.
- Salvage clawfoot tubs – A vintage clawfoot tub can be an elegant centerpiece for a 19th-century bathroom if space allows.
- Incorporate antique hardware – Vintage cabinet knobs and pulls, towel bars, and shower fixtures add old-world appeal.
- Display pieces of the past – Framed architectural drawings of the home, vintage photographs, antique signs or mirrors, and other period-appropriate decorative items can accent the new bathroom.
Blending original interior architectural details from the 19th-century with new bathroom amenities will allow the space to retain its historic spirit while offering updated function.
Design Elements to Incorporate from the Era
In addition to preserving existing architectural details of a 19th-century bedroom when converting to a bathroom, there are many elegant design elements from the era that can be incorporated to embrace the vintage style.
Color Palette
Traditional 19th-century color schemes included rich jewel tones like emerald greens, deep blues, and regal purples contrasted by cream-colored walls and white ornate trimwork. Classic patterns like damask or toile add timeless sophistication.
Flooring
Black and white hexagonal tile floors were popular in Victorian bathrooms, often accented with small mosaic tiles in floral motifs. Clawfoot tubs were surrounded by wood plank floors or decorative area rugs.
Plumbing Fixtures
Exposed pipes with classic cross handles, porcelain pedestal sinks, and free-standing rolled rim bathtubs epitomize early plumbing and remain stylish today. Seek out reproductions or salvaged originals.
Lighting
Gas lamps, brass or crystal chandeliers, wall sconces, and early Edison-style bulbs allow you to recreate early lighting effects, ideally used alongside modern lighting upgrades.
Furnishings
Incorporate vintage wooden furniture like armoires or washstands fitted with marble tops to use as sink vanities. Tufted benches, antique chairs, and floor standing towel racks also complement the style.
Accessories
Framed botanical prints, hanging macrame or lace, monogrammed vintage linens, and pedestal cake plate faux toiletries are some details that complete the look.
Blending a selection of these 19th-century design cues into the bathroom transformation will bring together old and new for a seamlessly sophisticated space.
Potential Challenges when Converting Bedrooms to Bathrooms
Converting a historic bedroom into a modern, functional bathroom brings with it a unique set of potential challenges one may encounter in the renovation process:
- Limited space or small footprint making bathroom layout difficult
- Low ceilings, which can impede fixtures like overhead showers
- Uneven floors that may require levelling prior to new installation
- Lack of existing plumbing stacks or water lines in vicinity
- Upgrading electrical for lighting, ventilation, outlets which can mean excessive wire runs
- Rerouting HVAC or radiator heating from existing bedroom set-up
- Damaging fragile lath and plaster walls during demolition and alterations
- Losing floor space to tub/shower enclosure and creating barriers
- Bathroom moisture and humidity ruining existing unprotected floors and finishes
- Lack of natural light and ventilation due to small window size
- Difficulty soundproofing and minimizing echoes with hard surfaces
- Limiting damage to trimwork, doors, and period details during construction
- Maintaining harmony between modern fixtures and vintage architectural elements
Careful planning and preparation is key to avoiding major setbacks when undertaking this type of bath transformation. Being adaptable to work around quirks of old homes helps smooth the process.
Key Steps for Successful Conversion of a Bedroom to Bathroom
Thoroughly plan and execute these key steps when taking on the project of converting a 19th-century or other historic bedroom into a new bathroom:
- Document original layout, features, and architectural details to identify keepers vs. planned removals.
- Research period design elements to incorporate like flooring, plumbing, tiles, colors, lighting, etc.
- Consult with licensed plumbers, electricians, and contractors experienced in working in historic homes.
- Create detailed floor plans showing new bathroom layout, fixture locations, and any relocated mechanicals.
- Obtain all necessary building permits for plumbing, electrical, structural, and other required work.
- Protect original floors, woodwork, doors and other architectural elements from damage throughout project.
- Make structural changes like opening walls and ceilings to allow for new pipes and ventilation.
- Run new supply and drainage plumbing lines according to code to desired fixtures and locations.
- Upgrade electrical service with additional circuits, outlets, and wiring for new bathroom lights and fans.
- Insulate exterior walls and attic ceiling for temperature, humidity, and sound control.
- Install new drywall, apply vapor barrier, and hang cement board on wet walls for water resistance.
- Lay new flooring like waterproof luxury vinyl plank, tile, etc. if needed.
- Install bathroom fixtures, vanities, medicine cabinets, lighting, accessories.
- Secondary spaces like closets can house mechanicals and improve sound damping.
- Thoroughly seal surfaces and test for leaks before finishing with cabinets, paint, and fixtures.
- Blend original architectural details seamlessly with new bathroom features for unified period style.
Decorating a Converted 19th-Century Bathroom in Texas
Decorating a newly converted 19th-century bedroom into a stylish bathroom should embrace and complement the historic southwestern and western design elements commonly found in vintage Texas homes:
Rustic and Natural Materials
Incorporate reclaimed wood, vine woven baskets, galvanized metal, oil rubbed bronze, stone, and leather accents that speak to the materials readily available in 19th-century Texas.
Regional Color Palettes
Pull colors from the Texas landscape like warm terracotta, deep yellow ochres, sultry turquoise, dusty rose, creamy limestone, and shades of the night sky. Avoid colors not native to region.
Texas Wildflowers and Native Plants
Frame collections of dried flowers and grasses or display ceramic pots of Live Oak, Bluebonnets, Indian Paintbrush and Yucca. Natural greenery and cacti make great shower curtain designs.
Patterned and Stamped Tin Ceilings
Ornate stamped metal ceilings were popular additions in wealthy 19th-century Texas homes. Install replicas or introduce tin accents like a backsplash.
Warm Metallics and Rawhide Accents
Use oil-rubbed bronze, brushed brass, copper, tin, and leather hide elements to add authenticity. Apply to lighting, faucets, shower rods, cup holders, or curtain tiebacks.
Western Artifacts and Memorabilia
Incorporate art, photos, or home accessories featuring cowboy boots, hats, saddles, spurs, brandy flasks, riding crops, lariats, and the like.
Texas Lone Star and Longhorn Embellishments
Employ subtle uses of the Texas Star motif on patterned floor tile or shower niches. Longhorn skull mounts, art, or sculpture add regional flair.
By thoughtfully blending materials, colors, patterns, textures and decor true to 19th-century Texas, you can create an inviting new bathroom space with genuine vintage Lone Star State appeal and spirit.
Designing for Comfort, Accessibility, and Safety
While maintaining the 19th-century aesthetic is key when converting a bedroom into a bathroom, incorporating modern design principles for comfort, accessibility, and safety is equally important:
- Include ample clear floor space with adequate room to move around each fixture.
- Select a compliant roll-in or walk-in shower design with grab bars, adjustable showerhead, fold down seat, and zero threshold entry.
- Choose an elevated comfort height toilet, taller vanity, and accessible cabinetry and controls.
- Install non-slip flooring materials appropriate for wet areas.
- Provide adequate ventilation and humidity control with a powerful exhaust fan ducted outside.
- Make sure lighting is bright and evenly distributed, with switches, controls, and outlets in accessible locations.
- Incorporate lever handles instead of knobs on plumbing fixtures and doors.
- Use a support grab bar and slip-resistant bath mat for standard bathtubs.
- Select tempered glass shower doors that slide or swing open with minimal effort.
- Include a hand shower on an adjustable slide bar for seated showering flexibility.
- Install backflows prevention valves on water supply lines.
- Ensure adequate water pressure with tankless water heaters if needed.
- Choose steam-resistant mirror and improve acoustics by using absorptive materials and sconces to reduce echo.
By designing thoughtfully, you can create a 19th-century style bathroom that not only looks beautiful but also caters to universal comfort, accessibility, and safety for all users.
Integrating Modern Technologies and Conveniences
While maintaining period-appropriate design elements in a 19th-century bathroom conversion, integrating modern technologies and conveniences can greatly enhance functionality:
- Tankless water heaters provide endless hot water on demand. Replicate turn-of-the-century plumbing aesthetics on the outside.
- Radiant heated floors lend luxurious warmth. Use with stone or porcelain tile flooring for natural look.
- Spa-like multi-head shower systems offer customized hydrotherapy without compromising vintage styling.
- High-tech toilets with built-in bidets, heated seats, automatic lids/flushing, and more operate incognito.
- Motion sensor faucets and lighting add hands-free functionality while hiding modern appearances.
- Water filtration at point of use removes impurities while retaining exposed vintage pipes and fixtures.
- Bluetooth shower audio enables you to stream your favorite playlists through concealed or camouflaged speakers.
- Smart thermostats quietly maintain comfortable bath temperatures without disrupting the aesthetic.
- Moisture sensing fans automatically help prevent humidity and mildew behind the scenes.
- GFCI outlets and ground fault interrupters offer essential modern safety yet disappear from sight.
With careful selection and creative concealment, today’s high-tech comforts and conveniences can be incorporated into a 19th-century style bathroom for the best of both eras.
FAQ About Converting 19th-Century Bedrooms into Bathrooms
What are important factors to consider when converting a 19th-century bedroom into a bathroom?
Some key factors include evaluating the existing layout and architectural details, planning updates to plumbing, electrical, lighting, ventilation and flooring, understanding potential challenges of old homes, preserving period features, and incorporating universal design and modern amenities.
How do you add plumbing to a 19th-century home to create a new bathroom?
Carefully map out locations of existing water supply lines, then determine the optimal layout for installing new pipes and drains to the desired bathroom fixtures. Custom retrofitting the plumbing without damaging original walls and floors takes expertise.
What kind of flooring works best in a converted 19th-century bathroom?
Water-resistant flooring like stone, tile, or waterproof hardwoods are ideal for vintage bathrooms. Refinished original wood can also work well with proper sealing. Radiant heated flooring adds comfort.
What are some tips for selecting bathroom fixtures with a 19th-century aesthetic?
Seek out reproductions or salvaged original porcelain pedestal sinks, clawfoot t
