Step into a realm where timeless elegance meets modern functionality with our latest master en suite bathroom remodel. Drawing profound inspiration from the opulent aesthetics of Art Deco, the sophisticated glamour of Hollywood Regency, and the clean lines of contemporary design, this transformation redefines luxury in a small footprint. Discover how thoughtful design choices, luxurious materials, and meticulous attention to detail can elevate a modest space into a breathtaking modern vintage sanctuary.
It’s with immense joy and a touch of disbelief that we finally unveil our en suite modern vintage bathroom remodel! This project, a true labor of love and necessity, has culminated in a space that far surpasses any dream we could have conjured. It’s a complete transformation, a serene retreat that embodies everything we envisioned and more.
Honestly, there is nothing else I could have wished for that would top the sheer delight and satisfaction this bathroom now brings us. It truly feels like a gift!
The Evolution of Our En Suite Bathroom: A Design Journey
Our Bathroom Before: A Blank Canvas
For those who followed our journey when we first moved into this charming colonial house over four years ago, you might recall the original state of our master bathroom. It was functional, certainly, but undeniably dated, embodying a utilitarian aesthetic rather than a personal retreat.
A Temporary Refresh: A Stopgap Solution
Approximately eighteen months ago, we undertook a much-needed refresh to breathe some temporary life into the space. This involved painting the walls and cabinetry, introducing peel-and-stick wallpaper, and cleverly covering the existing, less-than-ideal tile with vinyl sheet flooring. This quick facelift was designed to tide us over, a temporary measure until we could embark on the comprehensive, dream renovation we envisioned several years down the line.
The Unexpected Catalyst: Bathroom Water Damage
As often happens, life had other plans. A year sooner than anticipated, an unforeseen event accelerated our renovation timeline: significant water damage in the bathroom. This unexpected turn meant our planned, relaxed approach to design had to transform into a more urgent, high-pressure undertaking.
But then, when does life ever strictly adhere to a plan, right? Sometimes, the most beautiful outcomes emerge from the most challenging circumstances.
Unveiling Our Modern Vintage En Suite Bathroom Remodel
The sudden necessity to design this bathroom under pressure initially caused a great deal of stress. My vision was clear: a space that felt distinctly vintage, yet seamlessly integrated modern conveniences and ample storage. The rushed timeline, usually an enemy of creative inspiration, surprisingly pushed me to make bold, decisive choices. Perhaps designing under pressure is my hidden talent, because this en suite bathroom has unequivocally become my favorite room in the entire house!
(Though, to be clear, I’m certainly not advocating for another HVAC leak to inspire future designs! The pressure was intense, but the reward was phenomenal.)
The primary design challenge was navigating a rather small space. We made a conscious decision not to alter the existing footprint, yet our goal was to make it *feel* significantly larger and more luxurious. This demanded selecting timeless finishes that would withstand fleeting trends, ensuring the bathroom’s elegance for decades to come.
Our aesthetic brief was ambitious: a harmonious fusion of the glamorous 1920s (an era synonymous with enduring style), the distinctive 1960s (the decade our house was built), and a contemporary touch. We also wove in subtle influences from classic French and Italian design, alongside the undeniable opulence of Hollywood Regency. This intricate blending of eras and styles felt like a delicate dance, but we believe we’ve masterfully pulled it off in this exquisite bathroom.
The Scalloped Marble Backsplash: A Statement of Luxury
From the outset, the scalloped marble backsplash was a non-negotiable element. It was one of the few details I knew with absolute certainty had to be part of this space. The elegant, undulating lines of the scallop pattern, combined with the inherent beauty of natural marble, immediately introduce a bespoke and luxurious feel.
To our delight, we sourced a stunning marble remnant from a local fabricator. This clever decision not only allowed us to incorporate high-end material but also significantly reduced our budget without compromising on quality or aesthetics. Addressing our initial concerns about etching, the fabricator applied a robust UV treatment, providing peace of mind and ensuring the marble’s longevity and pristine appearance.
This exquisite backsplash detail alone elevates the entire bathroom, imparting an undeniably upscale and custom ambiance. Utilizing the entire remnant was a strategic and beautiful way to maximize its impact and value.
Anchoring the Space: The Elegant Wood Vanity
While our aim was a light and bright bathroom, characterized by crisp white walls and luminous porcelain tile, we were determined to avoid any sense of coldness or sterility. A thoughtfully selected wood vanity proved to be the perfect counterpoint, injecting much-needed warmth, natural texture, and grounded sophistication. A mid-toned wood vanity is a timeless classic, offering both beauty and robust functionality.
To further enhance this warm aesthetic, we opted for brushed gold hardware and fixtures throughout the space. The chosen knobs, with their intricate detailing, add an intriguing and sophisticated touch to the vanity, moving beyond mere utility.
These particular knobs exude a distinct Art Deco flair, perfectly aligning with our desire to infuse a touch of the glamorous 1920s into this modern vintage design.
The Luxe Experience of a Small, Enclosed Shower
Undoubtedly, one of the greatest design puzzles in this bathroom was the compact shower area. Our ambition was to create a feeling of unadulterated luxury without the need for grandiose dimensions. This challenged conventional wisdom about spacious showers being superior.
Intriguingly, after polling our followers, many expressed a surprising preference for smaller, enclosed showers, citing their superior warmth and comfort compared to larger, often drafty alternatives. Now, having experienced it firsthand, I wholeheartedly agree! I am a firm convert to the charm and efficiency of a small shower. It truly feels like a steamy, spa-like cocoon – incredibly warm, cozy, and utterly inviting.
Remarkably, we achieved this transformation without adding a single inch to the original shower footprint. The change was simply a matter of intelligent design: ripping out the old, tired surround, enclosing the space more purposefully as a dedicated shower room, and then masterfully tiling it from floor to ceiling.
The choice of a clear glass shower door was pivotal in maximizing the sense of space. It allows light to flow uninterruptedly, making both the shower and the entire bathroom feel significantly larger and more open than their actual dimensions.
A Touch of Opulence: The Shower Door Knob
Among the myriad of exquisite details, the custom shower door knob stands out as a particular favorite. Inspired by the sophisticated designs seen from Katie Martinez Design and celebrated by Chris Loves Julia, this subtle element truly elevates the shower’s aesthetic.
That dazzling glass knob oozes an unmistakable elegance and vintage charm, don’t you agree? I simply can’t get enough of it! Our contractor truly worked magic to bring this specific, intricate detail to life.
Functional Elegance: Thoughtfully Designed Shower Niches
The layout of the shower niches was initially a decision made in a rush during the intense initial stages of the renovation, a true “panic move” that turned out perfectly! I couldn’t be more pleased with the outcome.
We opted for a “his and hers” arrangement, providing individual, designated shelves for Robert and me to keep our respective toiletries organized and within easy reach. A crucial and incredibly functional addition was the leg shaving niche, strategically placed a foot from the floor – a small detail that makes an enormous difference in daily comfort and convenience. This attention to ergonomic design truly enhances the shower experience.
Furthermore, we positioned the niches on the wall to the right of the shower door, ensuring they are not immediately visible upon entering the bathroom. This subtle placement contributes significantly to the perception of a larger, more expansive shower area, free from immediate visual obstructions.
As a final design flourish, we extended the hexagon tile from the shower floor to line the back of the shower niches. This creates a cohesive and visually interesting detail, tying the elements together beautifully and adding another layer of sophisticated texture.
The Best of Both Worlds: Marble-Look Porcelain Tile
When selecting the tile for our bathroom, my desire was clear: the bright, classic aesthetic of white marble, but without the high maintenance and delicate nature of real stone. This led us to the truly remarkable polished marble-look porcelain tile from Alexander James – an absolutely perfect choice that exceeded all expectations.
The advantages of this porcelain tile are manifold. We don’t have to “baby” it, fearing every potential etch or stain. It’s considerably more affordable than genuine marble, both in material cost and installation labor, making luxurious aesthetics accessible. Crucially, its visual fidelity is astounding; the intricate veining design is so convincing that, even knowing it’s porcelain, it’s genuinely challenging to differentiate it from natural marble.
For the shower walls, we used large 12×24 Statuary polished tile. The larger format minimizes grout lines, contributing significantly to the perception of a more expansive and seamless shower area. This choice amplifies the feeling of luxury and openness.
On the shower floor, we introduced a delightful hint of 1920s glamour with hexagon Statuary polished tile. This subtle geometric pattern not only adds vintage character but also creates a beautiful continuity, subtly echoing the hexagon-shaped tiles found in our other bathrooms, fostering a harmonious flow throughout our home.
For the main bathroom floor, we opted for 4×16 Statuary polished tile, artfully arranged in a classic herringbone pattern. This intricate layout adds visual depth and sophistication. To define these patterns and ensure long-term, low-maintenance beauty, we finished all the tiling with Timberwolf gray grout. This particular shade provides elegant contrast and is forgiving against daily wear and dirt, promising enduring beauty with minimal upkeep.
Radiant Fixtures: The Allure of Champagne Bronze Faucets
My absolute adoration for the Delta Champagne Bronze finish knows no bounds. This particular brushed gold isn’t a bright, overtly yellow tone; instead, it’s a muted, sophisticated gold that exudes understated luxury and warmth. It strikes the perfect balance between classic elegance and modern appeal.
For the shower, we selected the modern Trinsic shower faucet kit. Its clean, minimalist lines perfectly align with our contemporary vintage aesthetic. We incorporated a handheld sprayer and a slide bar, not just for a spa-like experience, but also for practical reasons – making it significantly easier to clean the tile and glass door. The frustration of trying to clean a shower without a sprayer is, thankfully, a thing of the past!
The wall-mounted Trinsic sink faucets are, in a word, everything. Their clean, simple, and sleek design is aesthetically pleasing, but their functionality is where they truly shine. By mounting them on the wall, we’ve cleverly prevented water from accumulating on the countertop, a common annoyance with standard faucets. This small detail contributes immensely to the bathroom’s overall clean and polished look, and greatly simplifies daily maintenance.
Glamorous Reflections: The Enchantment of Venetian Mirrors
Our choice of mirrors was, serendipitously, a happy accident that proved to be a design triumph. We initially planned for black arched mirrors, but the dimensions of the space proved too restrictive for the tall, slim options we desired. As fate would have it, these exquisite Venetian mirrors then entered our lives and immediately captivated our hearts.
These magnificent mirrors do more than just reflect; they dramatically enhance the perceived size of the room, adding depth and luminosity. Their intricate details and reflective qualities instantly infuse the space with that distinctive European flair and undeniable Hollywood Regency glamour we were striving for.
Thoughtful Illumination: Layered Bathroom Lighting
Lighting plays a crucial role in both functionality and ambiance, especially in a bathroom. We discovered these incredible designer-dupe shaded sconces that deliver a beautifully soft and diffused light, perfect for applying makeup without harsh shadows. My strong preference for individual wall sconces on either side of the mirror, rather than a single fixture above, is rooted in this desire for even, flattering illumination that highlights the face without creating undesirable shadows.
Within the shower enclosure, we integrated a discreet canned light fan. This clever combination provides essential illumination while seamlessly managing humidity, maintaining a pristine and comfortable environment without sacrificing aesthetics.
Architectural Interest and Height-Enhancing Wall Molding
As is our signature style, we embraced a generous application of picture frame molding, a design element we’ve successfully used in Regan’s bedroom and our dining room. We sought to imbue the bare walls with architectural interest without resorting to an overly fussy or ornate look. Furthermore, adding costly wall tile was not an option within our budget constraints.
Picture frame molding emerged as the perfect, elegant solution. It not only adds a layer of classic sophistication but also cleverly creates an illusion of height, drawing the eye upwards and making the bathroom ceilings feel significantly taller than they are. This strategic use of trim transforms plain walls into a refined backdrop, contributing immensely to the room’s luxurious feel.
It’s truly astonishing to reflect on how this section of the bathroom once looked before our intervention…
Elevated Functionality: The Distinguished Wood Toilet Seat
Since the bathroom’s layout remained unchanged, meaning we couldn’t create the dedicated toilet closet we had hoped for, I focused on a creative solution to make the toilet itself a more aesthetically pleasing element. The answer lay in simple yet impactful upgrades.
Choosing this elegant wooden toilet seat (mirroring our success with the black toilet seat in our girls’ bathroom) combined with a sleek Champagne Bronze flusher worked wonders. If an item cannot be hidden, it should absolutely be elevated to become a design feature. This transformation proves that even utilitarian objects can contribute to a room’s overall style and sophistication.
Curated Charm: Understated Vintage Bathroom Art
For the art in this bathroom, my intention was to select pieces that would complement the space rather than dominate it. I sought art that offered a subtle layer of charm and personality. Consequently, a refined black and gold frame, alongside a vintage gold frame showcasing a serene painted landscape and a delicate floral etching, proved to be the perfect combination. These pieces are just understated enough, adding depth and character without overwhelming the room’s cohesive design.
Stylish and Accessible: Open Bathroom Shelves
The need for additional wall storage was undeniable, yet the compact nature of the bathroom presented a challenge for incorporating a traditional cabinet. Our solution was both practical and stylish: open shelving. To ensure perfect integration with the room’s overall aesthetic, I spray-painted the brackets of this wall shelf, matching them to the beautiful brushed gold fixtures used throughout the space.
Smart Solutions: Maximizing Small Bathroom Storage
To style the open shelves, I curated a collection of charming and practical items. This included a beautifully patina’d brass vase, a lucky thrift store find, alongside a selection of apothecary jars and bins. These containers are ideal for neatly storing smaller toiletry essentials like Q-tips, cotton balls, and bobby pins, keeping the space uncluttered and organized while adding visual appeal.
Further addressing our storage needs in this compact space, we incorporated a double hamper. Its neutral design seamlessly blends with the white walls, offering a discreet yet highly functional solution for sorting dirty clothes. This thoughtful integration means practical storage is in plain sight, yet it avoids creating an unsightly distraction, maintaining the bathroom’s serene aesthetic.
And so concludes the grand tour of our en suite modern vintage bathroom remodel! It’s a testament to the power of thoughtful design, proving that even a small space can be mighty in style and function. If Audrey Hepburn were to, say, metaphorically punch you in the face with elegance and unexpected vigor, I imagine this bathroom would be the embodiment of that sensation. 😉
It’s elegant, sophisticated, yet undeniably spirited, and I genuinely wouldn’t change a single thing about it. Despite the initial stress and the unexpected timeline brought about by the water damage, we would embark on this entire process again in a heartbeat to achieve this stunning finished space. The journey was challenging, but the reward is a daily dose of pure joy and luxury.
Soon, I’ll be sharing a comprehensive budget breakdown, as that’s a wealth of information too extensive for a single post. I also plan to provide a handy guide to all the bathroom’s measurements, which could be invaluable if you ever find yourself embarking on a similar bathroom remodel. Stay tuned for more insights!
For those located in the Charlotte, NC area, we cannot recommend our contractors, Paul Davis and Mike Bates at Home Rehab, highly enough. Their expertise and dedication were absolutely stellar every step of the way.
Explore Our Renovation Journey:
- Water Damage, Demolition, and Where We Go From Here
- Choosing the Best Bathroom Designs – 10,000 of Our Followers Voted What They Would Pick
- Modern Classic Bathroom Ideas Giving Us Major Inspo for Our Remodel
- Our Classic Bathroom Design Plan
- Marble Tile vs Marble Effect Tile: Which Is Best?
- Wood Bathroom Vanities We Love For Every Budget
- Faux Marble Herringbone Tile & Shower Progress
- Our Scalloped Marble Backsplash in the Bathroom Reno
- Our En Suite Bathroom Remodel – We Have Faucets!
- Rub n Buff Colors Tried and Tested
Do you have any questions about our remodel? My mind is still a delightful whirlwind of all things bathroom renovation at the moment!
