22 Timeless Bathroom Designs That Will Make a Lasting Impression for Years (2024)

Room Design

Bathroom Design

By

Sarah Lyon

22 Timeless Bathroom Designs That Will Make a Lasting Impression for Years (1)

Sarah Lyon

Sarah Lyon is a freelance writer and home decor enthusiast, who enjoys sharing good finds on home items. Since 2018, she has contributed to a variety of lifestyle publications, including Apartment Therapy and Architectural Digest.

Learn more about The Spruce'sEditorial Process

Published on 04/15/24

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22 Timeless Bathroom Designs That Will Make a Lasting Impression for Years (2)

Creating a timeless bathroom design is easier than one might think—the key is to be mindful of one's choice of colors and finishes from the get-go.

Below, we're sharing 22 beautiful, classic bathroom design that will help lead you in the right direction as you curate your own.

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  • 01 of 22

    Replace Medicine Cabinets With Stylish Mirrors

    22 Timeless Bathroom Designs That Will Make a Lasting Impression for Years (3)

    If your bathroom features a medicine cabinet that sticks out like a sore thumb, consider removing it and replacing it with a mirror that better complements your aesthetic. These two cut glass mirrors are elegant and timeless.

  • 02 of 22

    Add Wallpaper

    22 Timeless Bathroom Designs That Will Make a Lasting Impression for Years (4)

    Transform plain bathroom walls with the addition of wallpaperwhether peel-and-stick or permanent—and your space will appear much more custom and complete. Even if you opt to paper just half of a wall, as seen here, the addition of a cheerful print will breathe life into your space.

  • 03 of 22

    Don't Forget the Floor Tile

    22 Timeless Bathroom Designs That Will Make a Lasting Impression for Years (5)

    There are so many styles of bathroom floor tiles to choose from, so sort through the various options in order to find a pattern that speaks to you. This classic black and white design is sure to stand the test of time.

  • 04 of 22

    Style the Sink Area

    Keep your sink area pared down and product-free. Then, adorn the space with just a few accent pieces that will contribute to your bathroom's overall design scheme and serve a function. Small vases, canisters, and soap holders are all excellent choices.

    Continue to 5 of 22 below

  • 05 of 22

    Install a Chic Light Fixture

    22 Timeless Bathroom Designs That Will Make a Lasting Impression for Years (7)

    The right light fixture has the ability to truly shape a room and ensure that it looks more complete. This beautiful white lantern makes a stylish statement in this bathroom without competing with the beautiful floral wallpaper and sconces present.

  • 06 of 22

    Pick a Cute Bathmat

    22 Timeless Bathroom Designs That Will Make a Lasting Impression for Years (8)

    Every bathroom requires some sort of bathmat, but rather than simply going the utilitarian route, opt for a piece that plays to the overall design scheme. This scalloped jute mat plays to the other warm tones spread throughout this small yet sweet bathroom.

  • 07 of 22

    Make Use of Trays

    22 Timeless Bathroom Designs That Will Make a Lasting Impression for Years (9)

    Corral items such as makeup wipes and washcloths in petite woven trays, so that your day-to-day essentials are accessible yet do not appear cluttered. When it comes time to wipe down your vanity area, you can simply lift the basket rather than having to pick up individual items.

  • 08 of 22

    Don't Forget About Beadboard

    22 Timeless Bathroom Designs That Will Make a Lasting Impression for Years (10)

    Beadboard is classic looking and adds textural interest to any room—including the bathroom. Here, the material is paired with brass and marble for a more modern look. A space like this one is perfect for the neutral lover.

    Continue to 9 of 22 below

  • 09 of 22

    Hang Sconces

    22 Timeless Bathroom Designs That Will Make a Lasting Impression for Years (11)

    Use sconces to better regulate the lighting in your bathroom while contributing to the space's sophistication. In the evenings, you may prefer basking in their warm glow as you wind down, keeping the overhead light turned off.

  • 10 of 22

    Select Luxe Tile

    22 Timeless Bathroom Designs That Will Make a Lasting Impression for Years (12)

    Marble tile shines in this high-end-looking bathroom, which is drenched in neutrals. The black, white, and gray color scheme results in a hotel-like look.

  • 11 of 22

    Lay Down a Vintage Rug

    22 Timeless Bathroom Designs That Will Make a Lasting Impression for Years (13)

    Maybe you're inclined to weave a bit of color into the bathroom, in which case, a sizable vintage Turkish rug makes for an excellent option. These will also add a storied look to any space.

  • 12 of 22

    Display Framed Art

    22 Timeless Bathroom Designs That Will Make a Lasting Impression for Years (14)

    Hanging artwork in the bathroom may not be your first priority, but you'll likely find that you enjoy having something pretty to admire as you soak in the tub. These nature-inspired prints complement this bathroom's neutral tones nicely.

    Continue to 13 of 22 below

  • 13 of 22

    Get Nice and Organized

    22 Timeless Bathroom Designs That Will Make a Lasting Impression for Years (15)

    If you're someone who owns lots and lots of beauty products, keep them off of the sink and store them in a cabinet placed next to the vanity instead. Make use of baskets and canisters to keep everything organized and sorted by category to prevent the buildup of clutter.

  • 14 of 22

    Make Use of Penny Tile

    22 Timeless Bathroom Designs That Will Make a Lasting Impression for Years (16)

    Penny tile made waves in the early 20th century and is still majorly on trend now. Whether you weave it into the bathroom in a large or small dose, it's sure to make a chic statement.

  • 15 of 22

    Incorporate Brass Hardware

    22 Timeless Bathroom Designs That Will Make a Lasting Impression for Years (17)

    No matter whether you rent or own, you can easily add personality to the bathroom by switching out the builder-grade hardware for knobs and pulls that speak to your style—brass is always a timeless option.

  • 16 of 22

    Hang Monogrammed Towels

    22 Timeless Bathroom Designs That Will Make a Lasting Impression for Years (18)

    It's time to up your towel game. Monogrammed hand towels instantly make any bathroom appear more luxe and grown up.

    Continue to 17 of 22 below

  • 17 of 22

    Allow Space for Towel Storage

    22 Timeless Bathroom Designs That Will Make a Lasting Impression for Years (19)

    If you have room under the sink, use that area to house clean, folded towels. You'll no longer have to rummage through crowded closets in search of some fresh linens.

  • 18 of 22

    Include Sweet Scallops

    22 Timeless Bathroom Designs That Will Make a Lasting Impression for Years (20)

    Have fun with your sink shape; it's a great way to make a statement. Here, sweet scallops shine in this fun bathroom.

  • 19 of 22

    Incorporate a Classic Tub

    22 Timeless Bathroom Designs That Will Make a Lasting Impression for Years (21)

    If you love taking a long soak, you'll want to invest in a tub for the bathroom—but not just any type. Opt for a clawfoot bathtub or another similar style, and transport yourself back in time as you relax.

  • 20 of 22

    Carve Out Space for a Vanity

    22 Timeless Bathroom Designs That Will Make a Lasting Impression for Years (22)

    Instead of having to stand in front of the sink as you put on your makeup, create space for a sit-down vanity area that makes getting ready feel like a total joy. Incorporate cabinets and drawers so that you can tuck away all of your hair, skin, and face products when they're not in use.

    Continue to 21 of 22 below

  • 21 of 22

    Go Symmetrical

    22 Timeless Bathroom Designs That Will Make a Lasting Impression for Years (23)

    You can never go wrong with a symmetrical look in this bathroom—this setup is perfectly so, down to the matching soap bottles next to either sink.

  • 22 of 22

    Try a Skirted Sink

    22 Timeless Bathroom Designs That Will Make a Lasting Impression for Years (24)

    Skirted sinks are coming back into style and will add lots of charm to the bathroom. Select a fabric that speaks to you and design your own custom skirt, if you wish. We love the various green patterns woven into this bathroom.

Best Tips for Creating a Timeless Bathroom Design

When setting out to create a timeless bathroom design, you'll want to thoughtfully consider the type of hardware, flooring, and tiling to include in the space.

When it comes to metal finishes, Jennifer Hunter, the founder of Jennifer Hunter Design, is partial to polishednickel in a bathroom.

"It is one of those metals that is considered timeless and elegant," she says.

Those looking to avoid anything that's too "of the moment" will appreciate the designer's insights regarding flooring, too.

"You cannot go wrong with a marble mosaic on the floor," Hunter says. "It adds the perfect amount of texture and interest without ever being trendy."

Black and white checkered flooring is also another winning choice.

"It conjures up vintage glamour vibes but it can be paired with modern tiles and vanities," Julia Newman, the founder of Julia Adele Design, says

In terms of backsplash material, both designers agree that subway tile is a timeless pick for the bathroom. "Its application has been aroundfor decades," Hunter says.

"Whether they are in the traditional subwaystyle, stacked, or herringbone they bring a timeless feel," Newman adds.

FAQ

  • What color bathroom hardware is timeless?

    Designers say that polished nickel is a timeless bathroom hardware choice.

  • What bathroom flooring is timeless?

    Marble mosaic flooring and black and white checkered flooring are both considered timeless bathroom options.

  • What tile will never go out of style?

    Subway tile will not go out of style in the bathroom and can be displayed a number of ways.

74 Bathroom Decor Ideas for a Quick Makeover

22 Timeless Bathroom Designs That Will Make a Lasting Impression for Years (2024)

FAQs

What bathroom color is timeless? ›

Bathroom color palettes inspired by nature or by classic pairings are often timeless. For example, a neutral color palette of warm whites and soft grays will never go out of style. Similarly, a palette with sage green or coastal blue should stand the test of tie.

How can I make my bathroom look timeless? ›

How to Create a Timeless Bathroom
  1. Tip #1: Be Deliberate About Color Scheme. ...
  2. Tip 3: Consider Your Vanity. ...
  3. Tip #4: Go for Marble (or Quartz) Counters. ...
  4. Tip #5: Choose Fixtures in a Timeless Style and Finish.
Aug 17, 2023

How do I make my bathroom look vintage? ›

Whether it's antique tiles, old wooden floorboards, or a leftover piece of marble, a simple and surefire way to give your bathroom a charming retro aesthetic is to use reclaimed floor and wall coverings. The beauty of this strategy is that a small amount is usually all you need to create an exciting moment in the room.

What is a retro bathroom? ›

The retro bathroom style harkens back to the mid-20th century, offering a bold and vibrant take on bathroom design. Key elements include geometric patterns, bright colors, and the use of reflective fixtures. Think checkerboard floors, subway tiles, and pedestal sinks that bring back the spirit of the 1950s and 60s.

What color tile never goes out of style? ›

Characteristics of Classic Tile That Never Loses Its Style

When choosing tile for your next home renovation project, try to check at least one, if not several, of the following boxes: Neutral shades, like black, white, beige, tan, and gray. Classic patterns and designs, like black and white checkerboard and herringbone.

What color bathroom increases home value? ›

In addition to blue kitchens and bathrooms increasing appeal and sales prices, blue seems to have a positive effect in bedrooms and dining rooms as well. Keep in mind, however, that these are very specific types of blues, such as light cerulean and slate blue and cadet blue, as well as periwinkle in the bathroom.

What is the best tile for a timeless bathroom? ›

A practical tile will never fail you, and porcelain fits the bill. It's durable, slip-resistant, and easy to clean, making it a super low-maintenance option that will keep you satisfied for years. Plus, porcelain bathroom tile comes in a plethora of colors, sizes, and patterns.

What bathroom fixture finish is timeless? ›

The Polished Nickel finish has a traditional energy, making it feel like it was always meant to be in your kitchen or bath. It's bold in its simplicity, which is always a bonus.

What color bathroom fixtures never go out of style? ›

Choose Neutral or Cool Colors

White toilets, bathtubs, and sinks are always available, whereas other colors may not be. Even a neutral off-white may change slightly over the years and a replacement toilet seat might not match the original toilet very well.

How do you make a small bathroom look classy? ›

11 ways to make your small bathroom look elegant
  1. Add warmth to your bathroom. ...
  2. How to paint bathroom tiles. ...
  3. Float your vanity. ...
  4. Opt for open vanity shelving. ...
  5. Go for glass. ...
  6. Install dimmer lights. ...
  7. Don't forget the little touches. ...
  8. Update your bathroom fixtures.
Mar 30, 2023

How do I make my bathroom look Victorian? ›

For the walls, simple vertical or metro tiles are a popular choice for this Victorian bathroom style, particularly green tiles, white tiles or dark blue tiles in glossy finishes. To recreate Victorian bathroom tiling, opt for a half-tiled wall with a complimentary tile trim for an authentic look.

How do you make a terrible bathroom look nice? ›

The problem: That bathtub is just gross.
  1. Option 1: Clean up that grout!
  2. Option 2: Cover that tub with a pretty shower curtain.
  3. Option 1: Cover that floor up entirely.
  4. Option 2: Cover the floor up (mostly) with a pretty rug.
  5. Solution 1: Paint.
  6. Solution 2: Embrace art.
  7. Option 1: Replace the faucet and/or hardware.
Mar 29, 2023

What is bohemian style bathroom? ›

A bohemian style bathroom is one that breaks all the rules. It's a bit of an eclectic mix, bringing together different colours, textures, and patterns.

What is a steampunk bathroom? ›

Steampunk Bathroom Ideas

Exposed brass and copper plumbing with exaggerated mechanical style taps and a high level toilet with a chain are ideal for implementing this look. The stunning Steampunk bathroom above, features a copper plated basin mixer, basin and ½ winding exposed copper pipework in reduced bores.

What is an Edwardian bathroom? ›

Edwardian-style bathrooms steer clear of clutter and instead have the feel of light, open spaces and gentle antique calm that's perfect for unwinding and relaxing. Find your perfect period bathroom with Heritage.

What color bathroom sells the most? ›

According to a survey by Zillow, homes with blue bathrooms sold for an average of $5,400 more than those with white bathrooms. Similarly, homes with light blue or periwinkle bedrooms sold for an average of $1,856 more than those with white bedrooms.

What is the most popular colour for bathrooms? ›

This classic hue hasn't been dethroned for years and is still one of the most popular bathroom colors in 2024. Soft gray walls ensure your bathroom's decorative pieces stand out beautifully. Use the shade generously to keep things neutral while adding some edge.

What is the most timeless colour? ›

15 Timeless Paint Colors That Will Never Go Out Of Style, According To Designers
  • Creamy White.
  • Subtle Blue.
  • Nature-Inspired Green.
  • Dark Grays.
  • Classic Navy.
  • Soft Pink.
Mar 25, 2024

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