Designers achieve this timeless look with furniture-like pieces, soft colors and classic hardware
Interiors by Donna Hoffman
Jules Duffy DesignsTraditional bathrooms favor decorative detail and timelessness over minimalism and of-the-minute trends. Here’s what you won’t see:
- Bright color palettes
- Cutting-edge trends
- Flat-panel cabinetry
- Super-sleek finishes
- Minimalist details
Pizzale Design Inc.The colors in traditional bathrooms tend to be soft and relaxing. Subtle neutrals and pale shades of blue and green work well, or consider deeper shades of blue, brown, gray and wood tones for a richer look.
Colors for traditional bathrooms:
- Soft neutrals. Cream, beige, taupe, chocolate, dove gray, silver, snow white
- Serene hues. Misty blue, blue-gray, soft sage green
- Rich colors. Navy, charcoal, slate, chocolate, espresso
Interiology Design Co.Look for cabinetry with furniture-style legs, carved door faces and ornate knobs and pulls. Raised-panel cabinets can be painted, glazed or simply finished to let the natural beauty of the wood grain show through. In the remodeled 1920s bathroom shown here, a custom vanity with Bianco Carrara marble counters includes deep rollout drawers for ample storage.
Kitchen Views at National LumberA dressing table may sound old-fashioned, but having a place to sit, along with extra counter space (and often extra storage), is a traditional bathroom detail that simply makes good sense. Look for a double-sink vanity with a dressing area in the center, as shown here, or opt for a freestanding dressing table.
Marty Paoletta PhotographyStone counters, floors or wall treatments can make a beautiful focal point in a traditional-style bathroom. Light-hued stones such as marble and quartz work well. Light-colored granite or engineered quartz are also good options, offering easier-care nonporous surfaces. For a rich floor treatment, consider stone mosaic basketweave tile, as seen here. A simple pattern using square and rectangular pieces creates the basketweave effect.
Janet McCann DesignLighting in traditional bathrooms often looks as if it would be right at home in another era. Look for chandeliers, candelabra-style sconces, classic lanterns and globe-style lighting.
Anchor BuildersLook for a bathtub with classic features and roomy proportions — claw-foot and pedestal-style tubs work well. For greater accessibility, consider opting for a partially freestanding tub or a drop-in bathtub with an ample surround to make entering and exiting easier.
Katie Grace DesignsThe right details create a feeling of luxury and pampering in a traditional bathroom. Classic faucets and hardware in brushed nickel and oil-rubbed bronze strike the right note. Add an antique stool, embroidered hand towels, a vase of flowers and a pretty tray stocked with bath products to finish.
Traditional style is comfortable, formal and time-tested with symmetrical arrangements, gleaming surfaces and high-end materials. Here are some common elements to look for in a traditional bath: