| Featured Image: @brownstoneboys CCK3188AL_VCT3D603019NT5 | Working on renovations and remodeling in a historic home is always a balancing act. Most homeowners want to preserve as much of the historic charm as possible, but it’s often necessary to remove outdated fixtures that aren’t working properly or safe to use. Taking care when selecting replacement fixtures will maintain the old-fashioned charm or even restore it after former botched remodeling attempts. Try these four ideas for recreating a historic bathroom with the convenience of new and modern fixtures. |
The most classic bathing option for any historic bathroom is the clawfoot tub. Nothing adds old-fashioned charm like the curled edges and decorative feet of this kind of fixture. Even small bathrooms often have enough space for this kind of tub if the homeowner takes the time to find a low clearance model. Wall-mounted tub fillers can go a long way in helping a clawfoot tub fit into a small room since they don’t require extra floor space to accommodate them.
Classically styled faucets and ornate tub fillers are essential for completing a bathroom remodel with charm. Yet, it’s not just enough to pick these fixtures based on their styling. The finish must also match the historic nature of the house to set the right mood. Oil-rubbed bronze and polished finishes tend to be the most traditional, but matte finishes can also work well if they mimic copper and similar classic materials no longer widely used for plumbing.
Natural wood was once more widely used in bathrooms because it was affordable and easy to customize for creative installations. It fell out of favor due to the effects of moisture on the material, but modern materials offer the look of wood without its absorbency. Wood-grain countertops, tiles, and vinyl materials add classic style without the concern of keeping the material sealed.
Speaking of classic faucets, few designs offer as much old-fashioned charm and style as wall mount faucets. These fixtures were once the only option for adding indoor plumbing to old bathrooms, associating them automatically with the appeal of a historic home. Wall mount sinks with large backboards also give bathrooms that classic Victorian look that can be hard to get accurate with new materials.
Look for all the traditional fixtures and features needed to complete a historic remodel at Kingston Brass.
