Giving a cramped 1920s bathroom a fresh, classic update can feel daunting, but with careful planning and strategic design choices, it can be an extremely rewarding project. In this week’s featured bathroom, we’ll explore how leaning into timeless style elements helped transform a tiny, dated space into an elegant and inviting retreat.
Assessing the Existing Layout and Identifying Constraints
When dealing with a small, outdated bathroom like our 1920s subject, the first step is taking stock of what you’re working with. Some key questions:
- What are the overall dimensions? Are there any awkward angles or alcoves to work around?
- What are the locations of existing plumbing and ventilation? How flexible are they?
- Are there any special structural considerations, like load-bearing walls?
Thoroughly evaluating the existing layout helps identify any limiting factors to be aware of. In our 1920s bath, the cramped footprint and location of fixtures limited options. Still, room remained to better optimize flow and storage.
Selecting Finishes and Materials to Increase Spatial Harmony
With a mindset to maximize the sense of space, warm, neutral finishes help create a harmonious backdrop. Crisp white subway tiles make the walls appear cleaner and brighter. The natural texture of marble hex floor tiles enhances depth and interest.
Strategic use of reflective finishes also adds the illusion of roominess. Our designer opted for a custom sink console topped with elegant Carrara marble. The marble’s honed finish produces a soft glow to brighten up the small bath. Polished nickel accents lend vintage appeal with minimum bulk.
Adding Architectural Interest Within Spatial Limitations
Work around existing architecture to inject character. Here, a new step-in seated shower maintains the original footprint but gains vintage appeal with subway-set walls and marble hex floors. Installing a wall-mounted shower head instead of one on a riser prevents more bulky plumbing clutter.
Accent tile patterns layered on vertical surfaces lead the eye upward, countering boxed-in feelings. Our Moroccan fish-scale floor tile wraparound makes the shower feel like a room unto itself. The mirror’s arched top balances the angles while enhancing light.
Maximizing Storage Without Clutter
In a small bath, storage must be well planned to prevent clutter while keeping necessities at hand. Our 1920s bath added Function to style with these choices:
- A wall-hung toilet and pedestal sink boost aesthetic appeal while occupying minimum floor space.
- Cabinetry matched to wall height and capped with Carrara marble gains a built-in look for ample closed storage.
- Open shelving above provides handy access to linens and toiletries. Glass shelves and brass rails maintain an airy vibe.
- A narrow console table behind the door is ideal for folded towels and small accessories.
Rethinking the Layout to Improve Flow and Function
Reconfigured fixtures improve how this once-cramped bath now functions. Relocating the toilet to the rear optimizes privacy and clears traffic flow. The new walk-in shower maintains a compact footprint but now inhabits the choicest real estate.
By shifting the entry door to an angle beside the vanity, the renovation improved views upon entering and exiting. The door’s pocketing design eliminates any swing encroachment, another spatial win.
Final Touches: Lighting and Accessories
Proper lighting transforms a bathroom’s beauty and function. Our designers added mottled glass sconces flanking the mirror for soft, even light. Undercabinet lighting prevents shadows on the vanity. Inside the shower niche, an LED fixture brightens this compact but luxe retreat.
Thoughtful finishing touches elevate the bath’s classic flavor. Braided rope cabinet pulls add nautical personality. Natural sea sponges on open shelving lend organic texture. Vintage perfume bottles collected on the console table provide an elegant display. With these considered details, even this once-dreary 1920s bath is now a refined oasis.
FAQs About Remodeling a Vintage Small Bathroom
How much does a small vintage bathroom remodel cost?
Costs vary based on layout, finishes, and local rates, but plan around $15,000-30,000. Optimize your budget by keeping the original plumbing layout if feasible. Source vintage finds like pendant lights. Marble hex floor tile is affordable; use higher-end stone on shower walls or countertops as accents.
What are space-saving tricks for small bathrooms?
Pedestal sinks, wall-hung toilets, pocket doors, and wall-mounted faucets and showerheads all maximize space. Shelving rather than cabinetry boosts open feel. Cool hues make walls recede. Vertical tile patterns and reflective finishes give the illusion of roominess.
How do you give a vintage bathroom a modern update?
Preserve beloved antique touches like subway tile, then weave in modern updates. Matte black accents and fixtures feel fresh. LED lighting is energy efficient. Pendant lights add charm. Consider rainshowers. Install space-saving wall-hung vanities and toilets.
Should I remove my old clawfoot tub?
If it’s salvageable, a clawfoot tub can be the charming focal point when thoughtfully integrated. Freshen with new porcelain interiors and feet. Install wall-mounted faucets and shower wands. Add a freestanding tub filler. Surround with classic white subway tile.
How do I choose fixtures for a vintage bathroom?
Prioritize function and quality for heavy use fixtures like toilets and faucets. Select wall-mounted or minimal styles to save space. Then make visual statements with accents like black or brass showerheads, unique sinks, or colorful patterned tile. Lighting like sconces, pendants and chandeliers boosts vintage personality.
What paint colors work best in small bathrooms?
Soft neutral hues like off-white, light gray, and pale aqua keep things calm and bright. Avoid bold dark colors. Add character with contrasting tone on tone colors like deep navy on trim with light walls. Patterns and metallic accents also jazz up small spaces.
Conclusion
Breathing new life into a dated, cramped 1920s bathroom may seem daunting, but as this elegant revamped bath proves, the payoff can be incredible. With careful planning and strategic design decisions focused on enhancing spaciousness and introducing timeless character, even the tiniest bathrooms can become beautiful retreats. The keys are working within existing constraints, being thoughtful about layout and storage, and weaving in personal vintage flair with fixtures, finishes and accents you’ll treasure.
