7 Surprising Vintage Bathroom Decor Trends Making A Comeback In New Jersey

Remember those charming bathroom features from grandma’s house? They’re making a stylish return across New Jersey homes! Homeowners are embracing nostalgic elements that combine old-world charm with modern functionality. From colorful fixtures to classic patterns, these vintage bathroom trends are giving Garden State bathrooms character and warmth that mass-produced modern designs often lack.
1. Colorful Porcelain Fixtures

Pink toilets and mint green sinks are no longer renovation nightmares. They’re coveted statement pieces! New Jersey designers report clients specifically requesting preserved or restored colored fixtures from the 1950s.
Modern manufacturers have noticed too, releasing new lines of pastel and jewel-toned bathroom fixtures. These bold pieces instantly create a focal point while adding personality that white porcelain simply can’t match.
2. Brass Hardware With Patina

Forget polished chrome! Aged brass fixtures with their warm golden glow and natural patina are adorning bathroom vanities across the Garden State. The lived-in look adds instant character and depth.
Antique shops in Lambertville and Cape May can’t keep vintage brass bathroom fixtures in stock. Homeowners love how these pieces develop a unique finish over time, telling a story that factory-fresh fixtures never could.
3. Hexagonal Floor Tiles

Those tiny honeycomb tiles that once graced early 20th-century bathrooms are back with modern flair! Black and white remains the classic choice, but bold color combinations are gaining popularity in Princeton and Montclair homes.
Contractors report homeowners requesting these distinctive tiles with updated installation techniques. The nostalgic pattern provides visual interest while offering practical benefits – those small tiles provide excellent slip resistance when wet.
4. Clawfoot Tubs Take Center Stage

Nothing says luxury like a freestanding clawfoot tub! Jersey Shore vacation homes are particularly embracing these showstoppers, often positioning them near windows with ocean views.
Modern versions feature updated plumbing while maintaining vintage appeal. Homeowners love soaking in these deep tubs after long beach days. The curved designs make them surprisingly comfortable, while their elegant silhouettes transform ordinary bathrooms into spa-like retreats.
5. Medicine Cabinets With Personality

Recessed medicine cabinets with beveled mirrors and intricate frames are replacing boring built-ins throughout Bergen County. Salvage yards can barely keep vintage medicine cabinets in stock!
These functional pieces add architectural interest while hiding modern necessities. Homeowners appreciate the combination of period charm and practical storage. Many are retrofitting these cabinets with subtle interior lighting – blending vintage aesthetics with contemporary convenience.
6. Wallpaper Makes a Splashy Return

Bold floral and geometric wallpapers are transforming powder rooms across Hoboken and Jersey City. These aren’t your grandmother’s faded patterns – they’re vibrant updates on classic motifs!
Designers note that small bathrooms are perfect for experimenting with dramatic prints. Modern moisture-resistant papers stand up to bathroom humidity while creating instant visual impact. The trend reflects New Jersey homeowners’ growing desire for spaces with personality rather than sterile minimalism.
7. Pedestal Sinks With Exposed Plumbing

Sleek vanity cabinets are giving way to classic pedestal sinks with beautifully exposed pipes in historic Morristown and Princeton homes. These architectural statements combine form and function in the most elegant way.
Plumbers report increasing requests to install these vintage-inspired fixtures. The open design makes small bathrooms feel more spacious while showcasing craftsmanship that’s often hidden. Homeowners are pairing them with wall-mounted storage solutions for a perfect blend of style and practicality.