15 Stunning Victorian Bathroom Design Ideas

Ever dreamed of having a bathroom that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time?

Well, get ready to turn that dream into reality with our guide to creating the perfect Victorian bathroom.

We’re talking elegant, fancy, but not over-the-top. Victorian style is all about making your space look rich and classy without trying too hard.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to bring that 1800s charm into your home.

From picking out the right bathtub (hint: those claw-foot tubs are a winner) to choosing colors that’ll make your guests go “Wow!”, we’ve got you covered.

Victorian Bathroom Design Ideas

1. Clawfoot Bathtub

This freestanding white tub features ornate silver feet, adding a touch of luxury to the space.

Choose silver or brass hardware to enhance the period feel.

Pair the tub with light-colored walls and flooring to create a bright, airy space.

Add a decorative screen or room divider, like the one visible in the image, to introduce texture and privacy.

This centerpiece will transform your bathroom into a Victorian-inspired retreat, perfect for unwinding after a long day.

2. High Tank Pull Chain Toilet

This showcases a charming high-tank pull chain toilet, a hallmark of Victorian bathroom design.

The toilet features a white porcelain bowl with a wooden seat, topped by a high-mounted oak tank.

Consider adding a small wooden vanity nearby to complete the Victorian theme.

This type of toilet not only serves its purpose but also becomes a striking conversation piece in your bathroom.

3. Pedestal Sink

The idea displays a classic pedestal sink, a staple of Victorian bathroom design.

This pedestal sink design combines functionality with timeless elegance, making it a perfect centerpiece for a Victorian-inspired bathroom.

3. Patterned Floor Tiles

The tiles feature an intricate geometric pattern in soft blue, beige, and white colors.

This design adds visual interest and a touch of elegance to the bathroom floor.

This tile design can transform your bathroom into a charming Victorian-era space while maintaining a fresh, modern feel.

4. Vintage Brass Fixtures

These vintage-style light fixtures are perfect for a Victorian bathroom.

These wall-mounted lights feature brass-toned metalwork with curved arms and decorative finials.

These lighting fixtures serve as both functional elements and decorative pieces, elevating the entire room’s ambiance.

5. Beadboard Paneling

The walls feature vertical beadboard from floor to ceiling, painted in a soft, muted green color.

This type of wall treatment adds texture and visual interest to the space, typical of Victorian-era design.

This wall treatment transforms a simple bathroom into a charming, timeless space with plenty of character.

6. Freestanding Vanity

The vanity features rich, dark wood with intricate carved details and ornate moldings.

It has a double sink setup with a white marble top, providing both elegance and practicality.

This vanity serves as a stunning focal point, instantly transforming a bathroom into a luxurious Victorian-era space.

7. Victorian Wallpaper

The upper walls feature a bold floral pattern in gold and navy, typical of Victorian design.

Below, white subway tiles create a clean contrast and practical surface for the sink area.

This combination of patterned wallpaper and classic fixtures creates a charming, authentic Victorian bathroom atmosphere.

8. Cast Iron Radiator

The radiator is painted in a deep black color, highlighting its intricate floral and scroll designs.

It features multiple columns for efficient heat distribution and has ornate feet for added elegance.

This type of radiator not only provides warmth but also serves as a stunning decorative piece in a Victorian-style bathroom.

9. Ornate Mirror

The mirror has an elaborate gold frame with intricate carvings and scrollwork, typical of Victorian design.

It’s placed above a white pedestal sink, creating a striking contrast against the subway-tiled walls.

This type of mirror adds elegance and grandeur to the bathroom, serving both functional and decorative purposes.

10. Victorian Sconces

The wall-mounted sconces feature ornate brass designs with candle-style lights, adding a warm, vintage glow.

They’re placed high on the wall, creating a soft, ambient light that complements the room’s overall design.

The combination of these sconces with natural light from the window creates a well-balanced, atmospheric lighting scheme.

11. Exposed Shower Pipes

The shower setup features a large rainfall showerhead mounted on a curved arm, providing a luxurious shower experience.

The exposed pipes and fixtures are finished in polished chrome, giving a clean and classic look.

This shower design combines modern convenience with Victorian aesthetics, perfect for a vintage-inspired bathroom renovation.

12. Stained Glass Window

The window features a beautiful scene with angels playing harps, rendered in vibrant colors and intricate details.

It serves as the focal point of the bathroom, adding both privacy and artistic beauty to the space.

A stained glass window transforms an ordinary bathroom into a unique, luxurious space with a true Victorian feel.

13. Marble Countertops

The countertop features a white marble with subtle grey veining, adding style to the bathroom.

It’s paired with a black vanity cabinet, creating a striking contrast typical of Victorian design.

This combination of marble countertop and dark vanity creates a luxurious, timeless bathroom aesthetic.

14. Decorative Floor Mats

The mat showcases a pattern of birds, flowers, and foliage in rich, vibrant colors.

The design is reminiscent of William Morris prints, a hallmark of Victorian decorative arts.

Such a decorative mat can serve as a focal point, tying together the Victorian theme of your bathroom.

15. Vintage Bath Accessories

The chandelier features multiple tiers of crystal drops and ornate metalwork, typical of Victorian design.

It provides both ambient lighting and a stunning focal point for the room.

This lighting fixture transforms an ordinary bathroom into a luxurious, Victorian-inspired retreat.

Characteristics of Victorian Bathrooms

Victorian bathrooms are recognized for their attention to detail and timeless appeal.
Common features include porcelain fixtures, dark woods, and brass or copper finishes.
These spaces often use bold patterns and materials like tile and marble to create a grand atmosphere.
Throughout the Victorian period, bathrooms transitioned from purely functional to more decorative spaces.
Early designs were simpler but gradually became more ornate, with innovations in plumbing allowing for more luxurious setups.

Key Elements of Victorian Bathroom Style

The clawfoot bathtub is one of the most recognizable features, often placed as a focal point in the room.
High tank toilets, with a pull chain flush, are also a common feature of this style.
Pedestal sinks, combined with decorative faucets and hardware, bring authenticity to the design.
In addition, lighting plays an important role, with fixtures that have a vintage appearance, often in brass or copper.
Accessories like vintage mirrors, towel racks, and soap dishes also contribute to the complete Victorian aesthetic.

Planning Your Victorian Bathroom Renovation

1. Assessing Your Existing Bathroom Space

Before starting your Victorian bathroom renovation, the first step is to evaluate the current space.
Measure the room to understand how much space you have for key features like a freestanding bathtub, sink, or storage.
Also, consider the layout—decide if you want to keep the current arrangement or make adjustments to accommodate Victorian-style elements like a clawfoot tub or pedestal sink.
If space is limited, prioritize the key Victorian elements that will make the most impact.

2. Setting a Budget and Timeline

Planning a budget is essential for a smooth renovation.
Victorian-style fixtures, such as clawfoot bathtubs and vintage lighting, can be more expensive, so allocate funds accordingly.
Break down the costs into categories such as plumbing, fixtures, flooring, and décor to avoid overspending.
Set a realistic timeline for your renovation, taking into account any custom orders or specialized installations that may extend the project duration.

3. Working with Designers and Contractors

For a successful renovation, consider working with professionals who have experience with period-style designs.
A designer can help you plan the layout and select the right Victorian fixtures and finishes, while a contractor will ensure everything is installed properly.
Before hiring, review their portfolio to make sure they have experience with traditional bathroom designs.
It’s also essential to communicate your vision clearly, so they understand the balance between historical design and modern functionality that you want to achieve.

How Can I Incorporate Victorian Elements Into a Modern Bathroom?

Choose a Clawfoot Tub

A clawfoot tub is quintessentially Victorian.

It adds instant elegance to any bathroom.

Consider a modern twist with a colored exterior.

Add Ornate Mirrors

Victorian-era mirrors were often large and decorative.

Look for ornate golden frames or intricate designs.

A statement mirror can be a focal point in your bathroom.

Use Patterned Tiles

Victorians loved intricate tile patterns.

Consider a black and white checkerboard floor.

Or try colorful, patterned tiles for a splash of personality.

Incorporate Rich Colors

Deep, jewel tones were popular in Victorian times.

Think emerald green, ruby red, or sapphire blue.

Use these colors in small doses for a modern take.

Install Vintage-Style Fixtures

Look for brass or copper faucets and showerheads.

Choose designs with intricate details.

These can add a touch of Victorian charm to modern appliances.

Hang Floral Wallpaper

Floral patterns were a Victorian staple.

Choose a modern, large-scale floral print.

Use it on one accent wall for a contemporary twist.

Display Antique Accessories

Hunt for Victorian-era soap dishes or toothbrush holders.

Display them alongside modern items.

This creates an interesting blend of old and new.

Add Wooden Elements

Incorporate a wooden vanity or shelving unit.

Look for pieces with carved details.

This adds warmth and authenticity to your bathroom.

Use Freestanding Furniture

Victorians often used freestanding furniture in bathrooms.

Try a small armchair or a decorative side table.

This adds character and a lived-in feel.

Install Crown Molding

Crown molding was common in Victorian homes.

It adds an elegant touch to your bathroom.

Paint it the same color as your walls for a modern look.

Integrating Victorian Elements Into Modern Bathrooms

1. Balancing Historical Accuracy and Modern Functionality

When blending victorian design with modern bathroom functionality, it’s important to find a balance.
You can incorporate vintage-style fixtures like clawfoot tubs and pedestal sinks while still using modern plumbing and water-saving technologies.
For instance, modern faucets can be chosen in victorian finishes like brass or bronze to retain the period feel without sacrificing functionality.
This way, you get the aesthetics of the victorian era with the convenience of today’s technology.

2. Adapting Victorian Style for Different Bathroom Sizes

Victorian design works well in both large and small bathrooms, but it’s essential to adapt the style to fit your space.
In smaller bathrooms, focus on a few key features like a decorative mirror, vintage-inspired lighting, or a small pedestal sink to avoid overcrowding the room.
Larger bathrooms offer more opportunities for including multiple victorian elements, such as a freestanding bathtub, vintage tile patterns, and ornate fixtures.
The Goal Is to Create a Cohesive Look that Maintains the Charm of The Victorian Era without Making the Space Feel Cramped.

3. Incorporating Authentic Victorian Fixtures and Features

To create a truly authentic victorian bathroom, choose fixtures and features that mirror the original designs.
Freestanding bathtubs, high tank toilets, and detailed wall tiles are all key elements that capture the victorian essence.
You can also include features like beadboard paneling, vintage brass faucets, and decorative wall sconces to complete the look.
For a finishing touch, add victorian-style accessories like towel rails, soap dishes, and mirrors to enhance the overall atmosphere.

Choosing the Right Color Scheme

1. Popular Victorian Bathroom Color Palettes

Victorian bathrooms often feature rich, deep colors that create a sense of elegance.
Popular color choices include deep greens, burgundies, dark blues, and purples, often paired with white or cream accents to create contrast.
For a softer look, pastel shades such as light pinks, greens, or blues can also be used, along with floral patterns or vintage-inspired wallpapers.
These Color Schemes Reflect the Luxury and Sophistication Typical of The Victorian Era.

2. Selecting Paint, Tile, and Wallpaper

When selecting materials for your victorian bathroom, consider a mix of paint, tile, and wallpaper to add depth and character.
For walls, choose traditional paint colors like ivory or cream, or opt for ornate
Victorian wallpapers with floral or geometric patterns.
Tiles are a popular choice for both floors and walls, with black-and-white checkerboard patterns or mosaic tiles often being used to create a vintage look.
Combining These Materials Helps to Replicate the Layered and Textured Feel of An Authentic Victorian Bathroom.

3. Creating Visual Interest with Accent Colors

Accent colors can be used strategically to enhance the victorian aesthetic without overwhelming the space.
Metallic finishes like gold, brass, or copper work well as accent tones in faucets, towel racks, and light fixtures.
Adding small pops of color through towels, rugs, or decorative items can also create visual interest while maintaining the traditional feel of the room.
Make Sure the Accent Colors Complement the Main Color Palette to Keep the Overall Design Cohesive.

Final Thoughts

And there you have it! Your very own roadmap to creating a bathroom that’s straight out of a historical novel – but with better plumbing.

Remember, the key to nailing that Victorian vibe is all in the details.

A fancy tub here, some flowery wallpaper there, and don’t forget those shiny brass fixtures. It might take some trial and error, but that’s half the fun.

Mix and match until your bathroom feels just right. After all, this is your personal time-travel machine – it should make you feel like royalty every time you step inside.

So go on, get out there and start turning your bathroom into a little slice of Victorian heaven.

Who knows? You might just start looking forward to scrubbing the tub!