Vintage bathroom design: Distressed accents

There are many different aesthetic choices that fall under the vintage umbrella. You can choose anything from the geometric lines in art deco to the ornate hardware of the Victorian era. However, some prefer their antique bath faucets and other vintage adornments to be paired with rustic, distressed furniture and accessories. There is a delicate balance between making your bathroom look used and homey instead of creating a room that looks worn and outdated. Here are a few tips to bring in antique-looking furniture that will make your room turn into an expertly styled haven:

What to buy new
Just about anything can be bought secondhand these days, but that doesn’t mean they are all good purchases. Fixtures that you depend on for your daily routine, like your bathtub and faucets, should be bought new. However, if you’re trying to create a vintage aesthetic, you don’t have choose modern styles. Vintage is currently a popular trend and manufacturers are creating brand new quality pieces inspired by the past.

Clawfoot tubs – These freestanding bathtubs celebrate comfort at its basic form. Their deep basins are optimized for a long luxurious soak, which is one reason why there has been an uptick in their popularity. Opt for a cast iron or acrylic model with either a standard silhouette or a slipper shape. The latter has one raised side that works as the perfect built-in backrest. You can fully customize your tub’s faucet color and style of the claw feet. Choose from oil-rubbed bronze, polished brass and chrome. Additionally, pick from a range of feet choices – some are modeled after hind legs, and others simply have a decorative look.

Vintage faucets – To make designing the perfect bathtub easier, manufacturers have created matching bath fixtures. These faucets have an embellished trim in comparison to streamlined modern styles.

Distressed accents
Seating – Contemporary couches, sofas and armchairs often have plush cushions and covered armrests. Vintage seating differs in that the wood or metal frame is part of the design. This is where the ornate influence continues. Some of the legs on these furniture options have claw feet similar to a bathtub. Additionally, the structure is often painted in white or cream. Over the years, time has caused some of the paint to chip off, which is a look many people desire. So as you are shopping either for new antique-looking pieces or for actual vintage seating, keep an eye out for ornate curvature and distressed bodywork.

Mirrors – Vintage mirrors are often oversized and highly decorative. Use similar guiding principles as you search for the right frame. Additionally, you’ll want something that is eye catching and functional – there shouldn’t be any cracks in the mirror. However, if you find a frame you must have, you can always replace the glass. Also, consider leaning a standing mirror against a wall instead of hanging it up.