10 Art Deco Bathroom Ideas To Revive A 1928 Colonial Home
Breathing new life into a 1928 Colonial home while honoring its historical roots can be a thrilling design adventure.
Art Deco, with its bold geometric patterns and glamorous touches, offers the perfect style bridge between vintage charm and modern functionality.
These bathroom design ideas will help you capture the essence of the Roaring Twenties while creating a functional space that meets today’s needs.
1. Black and White Tile Floors
Nothing says Art Deco quite like a classic checkerboard floor. The stark contrast between black and white tiles creates an immediate visual impact that grounds the entire bathroom design. I’ve found that smaller 2-inch tiles give a more authentic period feel, while larger squares offer a modern twist.
For a truly unique approach, consider adding a border pattern or creating a custom geometric design. These floors are surprisingly forgiving with dirt and water spots, making them practical for daily use.
If you’re worried about the space feeling too stark, add a small colorful rug that can be easily changed when you want a refresh. The timeless appeal of this flooring choice ensures your bathroom will never look dated.
2. Geometric Mirror Designs
Mirrors with bold geometric shapes transform ordinary bathroom walls into stunning focal points. Sunburst patterns, stepped designs, and octagonal frames were hallmarks of authentic Art Deco style. I recently installed a fan-shaped mirror in my guest bathroom, and visitors can’t stop commenting on it!
When selecting your mirror, look for beveled edges or etched details that catch the light. These subtle elements add dimension and interest to the piece. Positioning is crucial – hang your statement mirror where it will reflect natural light or an interesting architectural feature.
Gold or chrome frames complement the luxurious Art Deco aesthetic perfectly. If you’re feeling adventurous, try grouping smaller geometric mirrors together for a gallery-wall effect that amplifies both light and style.
3. Chrome and Glass Light Fixtures
Lighting sets the mood in any bathroom, and Art Deco fixtures bring both function and flair. Wall sconces with frosted glass shades flanking your mirror create that perfect symmetry the style is known for. I’ve discovered that ceiling fixtures with stepped designs or globe shapes cast beautiful patterns across walls and ceiling.
Chrome finishes reflect light brilliantly and pair wonderfully with the era’s love of glass and mirror. For authentic appeal, look for fixtures with angular or geometric patterns in the metalwork or glass.
If your ceiling height allows, consider a small chandelier with glass rods or crystal elements. Even in a modest-sized bathroom, these fixtures make a dramatic statement while providing the illumination needed for grooming tasks. The right lighting instantly elevates your space from ordinary to extraordinary.
4. Bold Colored Tile Accents
Art Deco wasn’t shy about color! Emerald green, sapphire blue, or ruby red tile accents inject personality while maintaining period authenticity. A tile border running at chair-rail height adds visual interest without overwhelming the space. My favorite application is creating a bold accent wall behind the vanity.
When working with vibrant colors, balance is key. Pair your colored tiles with neutral walls and fixtures to prevent the space from feeling chaotic. Glossy finishes amplify the luxury factor that defines Art Deco style.
If permanent colored tile feels too committed, try removable wallpaper with geometric patterns in bold hues. This allows you to experiment with the look before making a bigger investment. The splash of color transforms an ordinary bathroom into a jewel box that delights the senses.
5. Fluted Vanity Cabinet Fronts
Vertical fluting creates rhythm and movement across cabinet surfaces, instantly elevating standard vanities to statement pieces. This architectural detail, with its repeating ridges and grooves, catches light beautifully throughout the day. I recently updated a plain vanity with fluted panels, and it completely transformed the bathroom’s character.
Wood vanities painted in high-gloss black, navy, or emerald green exemplify true Art Deco luxury. For a more subtle approach, try cream or soft gray with metallic hardware. The vertical lines of fluting also create an illusion of height, making your bathroom feel more spacious.
When selecting a fluted vanity, consider how it balances with other elements in your space. If you have busy tile or wallpaper, a simpler fluted pattern prevents visual competition. This thoughtful detail connects your modern bathroom to its historical roots while maintaining contemporary functionality.
6. Vintage Pedestal Sinks
Pedestal sinks were standard in 1920s homes, making them perfect for an authentic Art Deco bathroom renovation. Their elegant silhouettes and space-saving design work wonderfully in smaller bathrooms typical of Colonial-era homes. I’ve found that original vintage pieces bring unmatched character, but quality reproductions offer similar charm with modern conveniences.
Look for sinks with distinctive Art Deco elements like octagonal basins, stepped designs, or subtle geometric details. White porcelain remains the classic choice, though black fixtures have gained popularity for creating dramatic contrast.
If storage is a concern, complement your pedestal sink with a nearby cabinet or floating shelves. Wall-mounted soap dishes and toothbrush holders in chrome finish maintain the period aesthetic while keeping essentials handy. These graceful fixtures serve as functional sculptures that anchor your bathroom’s design.
7. Frosted Glass Shower Doors
Frosted glass shower doors with geometric etching capture Art Deco’s fascination with pattern while providing privacy. The translucent quality allows light to flow through the bathroom while creating a sense of mystery. My clients are always surprised by how these doors become artistic focal points rather than just functional elements.
When selecting patterns, look for classic motifs like zigzags, sunbursts, or stepped designs. Chrome frames with clean lines complete the period look perfectly. The frosted surface also hides water spots and soap scum better than clear glass, making maintenance easier.
If a full glass door isn’t possible in your space, consider a partial glass panel or a shower curtain with Art Deco patterns. The soft diffusion of light through frosted glass creates a dreamy atmosphere that elevates your daily shower routine into a luxurious experience reminiscent of glamorous 1920s hotels.
8. Streamlined Chrome Hardware
Hardware serves as jewelry for your bathroom, and sleek chrome pieces perfectly capture Art Deco’s love of industrial materials. Handles with long, streamlined shapes or stepped designs instantly communicate the style’s forward-thinking aesthetic. I always tell homeowners that updating hardware is one of the most affordable ways to inject period character.
Towel bars, robe hooks, and toilet paper holders in matching chrome create a cohesive look throughout the space. For authentic detail, look for pieces with subtle geometric motifs or clean, architectural lines.
Chrome’s reflective quality adds brightness to the bathroom while standing up well to moisture. If you prefer warmer tones, polished nickel offers a similar streamlined look with a softer glow. These seemingly small details work together to create an authentic Art Deco atmosphere that honors your home’s 1928 origins while functioning beautifully for modern life.
9. Sunburst Wall Motifs
Sunburst patterns radiate energy and optimism perfect qualities for starting your day! These iconic Art Deco motifs can be incorporated through wallpaper, tile work, or even painted directly onto walls. The dramatic rays emanating from a central point create movement that energizes the bathroom space.
For a subtle approach, try a single sunburst mirror or light fixture as a focal point. More adventurous decorators might choose a feature wall with repeating sunburst patterns in metallic finishes. Gold or silver accents within these designs catch light beautifully.
If you’re hesitant about permanent installations, removable wallpaper or framed art prints offer flexibility. When I redesigned my powder room, I added a simple sunburst medallion around the ceiling light – an unexpected detail that draws the eye upward and makes the room feel special. These celestial-inspired designs connect directly to the optimistic spirit of the Roaring Twenties.
10. Glossy Lacquered Finishes
High-gloss lacquered surfaces epitomize Art Deco luxury, reflecting light and creating a sense of opulence. Cabinet doors, shelving, or even ceiling details with a mirror-like finish instantly elevate your bathroom’s sophistication level. I’m particularly fond of black lacquer for its dramatic impact, though deep blues, greens, and reds were also popular during the period.
The application process requires patience and precision, but the results are stunning. If DIY seems daunting, many manufacturers offer pre-finished pieces with that coveted high-shine look. Contrast these glossy elements with matte finishes elsewhere to prevent the space from feeling overwhelming.
Maintenance is simpler than you might expect a soft, damp cloth usually does the trick. Just avoid abrasive cleaners that could damage the finish. These gleaming surfaces create a sense of glamour that perfectly captures the spirit of Art Deco, when homes began embracing luxury details previously reserved for grand hotels and ocean liners.
