28 Best 1920s Bathroom Decor Ideas
Step back in time to the roaring 1920s, an era renowned for its opulence, elegance, and groundbreaking design.
This decade introduced the world to Art Deco – a style characterized by bold geometric shapes, lavish ornamentation, and a celebration of modernity.
Homes during this time embraced sleek lines, luxurious materials, and a sense of sophistication that defined the period’s aesthetic appeal.
In our article, we delve into 28 exquisite bathroom decor ideas that channel the spirit of the 1920s.
From vintage medicine cabinets to swan neck faucets, each idea is a testament to the timeless elegance and charm of this iconic era.
Let’s jump into it!
28 Bathroom Ideas Inspired By 1920s Decor
1. Vintage Clawfoot Tub
Transport your bathroom back to the 1920s with a vintage clawfoot tub as the star. This iconic tub, with its elegant raised legs and deep, inviting basin, brings both charm and functionality.
Set it against a backdrop of white subway tiles or a gentle pastel-painted wall to capture an authentic retro feel.
Add an extra layer of nostalgia by choosing brass or nickel faucets, enhancing the classic appeal.
2. Checkerboard Floor Tiles
Introduce a splash of 1920s glamour with black and white checkerboard floor tiles.
This bold choice creates a striking visual effect, adding a dramatic yet versatile touch to any bathroom.
Whether you opt for large or small tiles, the black-and-white contrast offers a timeless elegance.
3. Subway Tiles
Capture the elegance of the 1920s with classic white subway tiles. Known for their simple yet sophisticated charm, these tiles are typically arranged in a staggered pattern.
Use them on walls, backsplashes, or in the shower area to reflect light and brighten the room.
For an authentic vintage touch, pair these tiles with black or dark-colored grout to create a sharp contrast that keeps the design fresh and minimal, yet undeniably classic.
4. Pedestal Sink
Opt for a pedestal sink to maximize space and style in a smaller bathroom or powder room.
This sleek porcelain basin, supported by a single column, offers an open and airy feel. While storage may be minimal, the elegance is undeniable.
Enhance the vintage vibe by selecting nickel or brass fixtures and pairing them with a vintage-style oval mirror above the sink.
5. Hexagonal Floor Tiles
Transform your bathroom into a 1920s masterpiece with hexagonal floor tiles.
These small tiles can be arranged in both simple and intricate patterns, with classic choices like white or black-and-white combinations. The geometric design is not just visually appealing but also a nod to the vintage era.
Pair these tiles with a timeless clawfoot tub and an elegant pedestal sink to complete the historical look.
6. Art Deco Wall Sconces
Illuminate your bathroom with the elegance of Art Deco wall sconces. These lights are perfect for introducing a touch of the 1920s into your home.
Look for sconces with geometric shapes, frosted glass, or finishes in sleek chrome or brass.
Not only do they provide essential lighting, but they also serve as standout decorative pieces.
7. Beadboard Paneling
Add a touch of vintage charm with beadboard paneling. This feature creates a cozy, vintage feel in your bathroom.
Paint the paneling in soft, muted colors like gentle pastels or light shades of blue, green, or pink.
Use it on the lower half of the walls and complement it with subway tiles or floral wallpaper above.
8. Stained Glass Windows
Introduce a splash of color and privacy with stained glass windows. These windows are perfect for a 1920s-inspired bathroom.
Choose designs with geometric or floral patterns to maintain the vintage vibe.
Install them near a clawfoot tub or above a pedestal sink to let natural light filter through beautifully, while keeping your space private.
9. Porcelain Fixtures
In the 1920s, porcelain fixtures like towel bars, soap dishes, and toothbrush holders were not just useful, they were also very stylish.
These accessories add a perfect finishing touch to any bathroom, blending functionality with vintage charm.
To recreate this look, search for matching sets in white or pastel colors, which beautifully complement other vintage elements.
10. Brass or Nickel Faucets
For a touch of 1920s elegance, choose brass or nickel faucets. These metals were popular back then and add a luxurious feel to your bathroom.
The polished shine of brass or nickel looks stunning with pedestal sinks or clawfoot tubs, creating a unified, high-end appearance.
Opt for faucets with classic detailing to keep the historical charm while enhancing the modern functionality of your space.
11. Deep Soaking Bathtub
A deep soaking bathtub was a symbol of luxury in the 1920s, made for ultimate relaxation.
Freestanding tubs, often crafted from cast iron or enamel, were the highlight of any elegant bathroom.
To achieve a true vintage vibe, place the tub centrally, paired with freestanding faucets.
12. Mosaic Tile Accents
Mosaic tile accents were key in adding artistic detail to 1920s bathrooms.
Small, colorful tiles were arranged in intricate geometric or floral patterns on floors or walls. These mosaics are perfect for introducing a character into a minimalist design.
Use them sparingly to emphasize specific areas, like a shower or vanity backsplash.
13. Arched Mirrors
Adding arched mirrors to your bathroom can bring a sense of elegance and softness, reminiscent of the 1920s romantic style.
These mirrors often feature beveled edges and frames made of brass or nickel, which infuse a touch of glamour.
Placing one above a pedestal sink or vanity can make the space seem larger while introducing a vintage, feminine touch.
14. Floral Wallpaper
To bring a feminine, vintage charm to your bathroom, consider using floral wallpaper in muted colors like pastels.
Popular in the 1920s, these patterns often feature small flowers or intricate designs that are subtle yet stylish.
Use the wallpaper as an accent wall or pair it with beadboard paneling for a cohesive look. Add brass fixtures and vintage lighting to maintain a consistent style.
15. Cast Iron Radiators
A cast iron radiator can not only provide warmth but also enhance the vintage aesthetic of a 1920s-inspired bathroom.
These radiators often come in dark colors or their natural finish, making them a perfect match for hexagonal tiles or beadboard walls.
Position them near the bathtub or along an exterior wall for efficient heating and a touch of historical authenticity.
16. Freestanding Sink Console
Opting for a freestanding sink console with open shelving underneath offers a practical yet stylish solution for a 1920s-inspired bathroom.
This setup provides space for decorative storage without the bulkiness of modern cabinetry. Pair the console with a vintage sink and brass fixtures to complete the look.
The open design not only adds a sense of spaciousness but also stays true to the era’s focus on minimalism.
17. Classic Black and White Palette
Embrace the timeless elegance of the 1920s with a classic black-and-white palette in your bathroom. This iconic color scheme brings a sophisticated touch that never goes out of style.
Picture the sleek contrast of subway tiles with black grout, perfectly complemented by gleaming white porcelain fixtures.
This combination creates a clean and polished look that suits bathrooms of any size, from cozy powder rooms to expansive spaces.
18. Oval Vanity Mirrors
Add a touch of elegance with oval vanity mirrors in your bathroom. The soft, rounded shape of these mirrors beautifully contrasts with the straight lines of subway tiles or geometric floor patterns.
Select a mirror with a beveled edge and frame it in brass or nickel to enhance the vintage ambiance.
This simple yet impactful addition not only complements the design but also makes the room feel brighter and more open.
19. Charming Wall Art
Transform your bathroom into a 1920s haven with charming wall art. Choose vintage black-and-white photographs or framed Art Deco prints to add a retro flair.
These art pieces can be strategically placed above the bathtub, near the vanity, or on any empty wall, infusing the space with personality and charm.
This simple decorative touch not only enhances the ambiance but also maintains a cohesive vintage look.
20. Ceramic Tile Wainscoting
Incorporate the elegance of the past with ceramic tile wainscoting in your bathroom.
This feature, popular in the 1920s, covers the lower half of the walls, offering a clean and refined look while protecting against moisture.
Pair classic white ceramic tiles with soft pastel paint or floral wallpaper above to achieve a balanced and charming design. The use of wainscoting adds texture and depth to the room, providing a polished, vintage finish.
21. Cast Iron Tub with Chrome Feet
Transform your bathroom into a luxurious retreat with a cast iron tub featuring chrome feet. This freestanding tub offers a deep soak, perfect for unwinding after a long day.
The sleek, shiny chrome feet add a touch of modern elegance with a hint of retro charm.
Pair this stunning centerpiece with classic black and white tiles or marble flooring for a striking contrast that elevates any bathroom’s style.
22. Marble Countertops
Introduce the timeless elegance of the 1920s into your bathroom with marble countertops.
Whether you choose white or gray marble, these surfaces add a touch of sophistication and are incredibly durable.
The smooth, polished marble pairs beautifully with brass fixtures and vintage lighting, creating a cohesive and elegant design.
23. Art Deco Vanity Lights
Illuminate your bathroom with the geometric elegance of Art Deco vanity lights. These lights, with their sleek lines and frosted glass finishes, capture the glamour of the 1920s.
Position them on either side of a vanity mirror or above a pedestal sink to provide perfect lighting while enhancing the vintage vibe.
Their metallic finishes reflect light beautifully, effortlessly blending with other Art Deco touches in your bathroom, such as mirrors or wall sconces, to create a unified, elegant look.
24. Geometric Floor Patterns
Embrace the bold style of the 1920s by incorporating geometric floor patterns into your bathroom design.
Choose from hexagonal or mosaic tiles in black, white, or soft pastel colors to create intricate designs that add visual interest without overwhelming the space.
These detailed patterns are a hallmark of the Art Deco movement and pair wonderfully with simple wall tiles and vintage fixtures.
25. Freestanding Bathtub Faucets
Imagine stepping into a 1920s-inspired bathroom where a luxurious freestanding bathtub steals the spotlight.
To complete this elegant look, opt for freestanding floor-mounted faucets. Picture faucets gleaming in brass or polished nickel, perfectly complementing the vintage ambiance.
These faucets stand proudly beside a classic clawfoot or deep soaking tub, adding both style and function.
26. Vintage Medicine Cabinet
A beautiful mirrored medicine cabinet with a beveled edge and intricate details can transform your bathroom into a charming 1920s retreat.
These cabinets not only provide essential storage but also enhance the vintage vibe. Choose finishes in chrome or nickel to harmonize with other fixtures.
When placed above a pedestal sink or freestanding console, the cabinet becomes a focal point, tying together the entire room with a nostalgic yet sophisticated touch.
27. Swan Neck Faucets
Bring the elegance of the past into your bathroom with swan neck faucets, celebrated for their graceful curves and timeless appeal.
Perfect for vintage sinks or freestanding bathtubs, these faucets in brass or nickel finishes add a touch of sophistication.
The high, curved spout not only looks beautiful but also ensures practical use, making it easy to fill a tub or wash hands.
28. Art Deco Tile Borders
Infuse your bathroom with classic Art Deco style through elegant tile borders.
These tiles, known for their geometric patterns and bold colors, serve as striking accents on walls or floors.
Use them sparingly to highlight key areas, like around the bathtub or along wainscoting, to maintain a refined look.
Hi, I am Emma Rose, the founder and writer behind Pinch of Decoration. I have a keen eye for home decor, to transforms living rooms, bedrooms, bathrooms, laundry spaces, and outdoor areas into stunning retreats. My passion for creating beautiful, functional spaces shines through my expertly crafted articles.