How to incorporate rustic features in your vintage bathroom design

Rustic design is an aesthetic more people are turning to. It combines the elements of nature with other styles to create a truly original space. The bathroom is a great place for rustic features as it can be paired with the vintage theme to create a highly stylized, yet relaxed, environment.

What is rustic style? This design preference elicits feelings of the countryside. Natural materials like reclaimed wood and stone are used to bring outside elements into a space.

Rustic meets vintage
Vintage style bathrooms typically have freestanding tubs. While clawfoot tubs are more popular, pedestal models also work nicely. Use wood tones to help choose the perfect finish for your faucets. For a high-contrast look, opt for polished chrome or brass. To make the space more cohesive, choose an antique brass or oil-rubbed bronze treatment.

Additionally, there are wooden tubs on the market that cater perfectly to this aesthetic. They are freestanding units made from cedar and are reinforced with iron wraps for quality and durability.

Walls
Wood paneling is one way to incorporate a rustic feel. This isn’t the retro wall treatment of yesteryear. It is a look that feels worn. Opt for distressed or reclaimed wood – it’s a great opportunity to utilize recycled material. However, have your contractor sand down any rough edges to avoid splinters.

If wood paneling isn’t for you, there are other suitable wall treatments. Old tile could be installed from a previous bathroom. Also, you could paint swirls in a gray tone to create texture.

Stone – Installing real stone is a great way to bring nature into the room. You could have one solid block make up the wall or individual pebbles could be laid like tile work.

Brick – Exposed brick is a popular wall treatment inside and outside the bathroom. The easiest way to incorporate this look is to take down the drywall from one of the exterior walls in the house. It should reveal the original bricks, and hopefully if your house is in good shape, only minor touch-ups needs to be made.

Floors
Reclaimed wood can also be installed to create the floors. This material is often taken from home demolitions, and looks great after a durable finish is added.

Ceiling
Exposed ceiling beams make a room feel like a cabin. If you are lucky enough to already have them in your room, leave them untreated for a natural look.

Accessories
Be creative with the places you choose to bring in natural materials. A mirror frame could be built out of old salvaged wood.

Fireplace – Stone fireplaces are the ultimate rustic amenity. They add the relaxing feature of a roaring fire and have the soothing colors of natural stone and wood.

Seating – Seating options are another place to add a rustic feel to a room. Look to estate sales and thrift shops to find worn, yet quality, items that fit the vintage aesthetic as well.