Designing a Period-Style Bathroom
Despite modern advancements in technology and interior design, there will always be a special place in our hearts for period-style bathrooms. For example, Victorian bathrooms are currently very on-trend and probably more popular now than back in Victorian times! If you want to create the perfect vintage-style bathroom, look no further. Our guide will provide tips and advice on recreating period style, from taps to tiles.
Beautiful baths
The classic centrepiece of a period-style bathroom is the roll-top bath. For example, our Balmoral range of freestanding baths oozes traditional charm! They boast a timeless elegance and stunning attention to detail with roll top edges and classic claw and ball feet. The feet are available in black, white or chrome, so choose one that best suits your décor.
A major advantage of these freestanding baths is the flexibility they offer when planning your bathroom layout. If you have the space, you can place one of these beauties in the centre of the room!
Don’t have room for a roll top? Don’t fret – the Balmoral range also offers freestanding shower baths which fit snugly against the wall, just like a regular straight bath. They come with all the gorgeous features of a traditional tub while offering a bath and a shower in one.
Change your basin
Period-style ceramics usually have more angular designs and intricate detailing, like bevelled edges and trims. We recommend a full pedestal basin, which are available with one, two, or three tap holes. If you want the style of a traditional basin with the functionality of a modern one, choose a full pedestal with one tap hole. These are compatible with mono mixer taps, allowing more control over your water temperature.
If you want something more eye-catching, why not go for a washstand? Manufactured by Heritage, the Claverton washstand range will add elegance and exquisite craftsmanship to a traditional bathroom. The gold finish of the frame will also bring the vintage glamour and luxury!
Don’t forget the toilet
Coordinate your new basin with a toilet in a similar style. The Legend Traditional Close Coupled Toilet is ideal for a period-style bathroom and works well with most of our traditional basins. You can also purchase this toilet as part of a set, which includes a basin.
For a true period look, you can’t get more authentic than a classic high-level toilet! The cistern of a this toilet is positioned high up on the wall, with a long stainless-steel pipe connecting it to the pan. They are also distinguished by their charming pull chain flush. Don’t have the space in your bathroom for a high-level toilet? No problem! Our Low-Level toilets have a similar aesthetic, but the cistern is positioned lower down on the wall and has a lever instead of a pull-chain flush.
Taps
To tie your period-style bathroom together, it’s worth swapping your taps for more traditional ones. Traditional taps have elegant detailing like cross head or lever handles and ‘hot’ and ‘cold’ inserts. Our basin taps come in a wide range of beautiful designs for basins with one, two and three tap holes, so ensure you choose the right tap for your basin. For example, if you have a basin with two tap holes, you will need separate hot and cold pillar taps.
We recommend pairing your basin taps with a traditional bath shower mixer for a cohesive look. Keep an eye out for one that comes with a telephone-style shower handset, like this gorgeous Hudson Reed Bath Shower Mixer.
You also don’t have to settle for chrome taps. To add warmth, colour, and opulence to a traditional bathroom, go for gold or brushed brass!
Victorian heating
Heating was a rarity in Victorian and Edwardian times, so it’s no surprise that domestic radiators from these periods were statement pieces and status symbols. If you’re designing a period-style bathroom, then a cast iron radiator based on these old models could be just what you're looking for. Enjoy the beautiful, authentic design of a vintage radiator with the modern advantage of a high heat output.
Cast iron radiators are excellent conductors of heat. They evenly distribute heat throughout the room and retain heat for a long time, so they keep your room toasty even after your boiler has been switched off. Our cast iron radiators also have a built-in heated towel rail so you can step straight into a warm towel after your bath or shower. There’s no better feeling!
Cast iron radiators are also well built, strong, and durable. All our models even come with a Manufacturer's Guarantee for added peace of mind.
Invest in storage
Traditional storage will truly crown a period-inspired bathroom. Not only will it enhance the look of your bathroom, but it will also keep the room clutter-free. This means your eye can focus solely on your design scheme! Vintage-style furniture is known for features such as round knob handles, soft edges, and muted shades such as greys and subtle blues. For example, our traditional vanity units provide plenty of storage while doubling up as an attractive basin unit, which is perfect if you find yourself with limited space. Complete the look with a traditional style mirror such as this Harrogate Brushed Brass Mirror.
Traditional tile style
Striking geometric patterns are very popular in period bathrooms, so why not incorporate a bold patterned tile into your design? A patterned tile will also add fabulous texture to your bathroom. Whether you use your patterned tile on the floor or as a feature wall, keep the rest of the room plain to prevent overpowering the room - white is a classic base colour for a traditional bathroom (see pictured).
The diamond pattern of the Alhambra tile is unmistakably traditional. If you are looking for something with more colour, go for a floor tile from our Olden range. Available in either Pink or Mustard Yellow, these tiles use colour and pattern in a way that is reminiscent of Victorian style.
The checkerboard floor is also associated with traditional bathrooms but tends to be overused. To change things up, use hex tiles instead of square ones for a contemporary twist. Our Esagono Nero and Esagono Bianco tiles are perfect for this new take on a classic look.
If you prefer wood tones, parquet-style flooring is a fantastic addition to a traditional bathroom. It makes any room look warmer and more luxurious, but natural wood can be costly and often unsuitable for high-traffic areas. Our wood effect tiles replicate real wood and are more durable, less expensive, and easier to maintain. Lay these in a herringbone or basketweave layout for that pretty parquet look.
Whether doing a complete bathroom overhaul or simply swapping out some fittings, a period-style bathroom is easily achievable. The timeless beauty of these bathrooms also means your décor will never go out of style! Feeling inspired? Shop our full range of traditional bathroom ware and tiles online and in-store today.
