11 Vintage California Bathrooms Making A Stylish Comeback

Remember those charming bathroom designs from grandma’s house? Well, they’re back and better than ever! In California, vintage bathroom decor is experiencing a major revival as homeowners seek character and uniqueness in their spaces. From classic fixtures to retro color schemes, these nostalgic elements are being reimagined with modern twists to create bathrooms that feel both timeless and fresh.

1. Clawfoot Tubs Take Center Stage

Nothing says vintage luxury quite like a clawfoot tub. These freestanding beauties with their distinctive feet create an instant focal point in any bathroom, a style you’ll often see in California homes.

Modern versions come in various materials and colors, making them adaptable to contemporary spaces. Pair yours with sleek fixtures for a perfect blend of old and new that creates a spa-like retreat in your home.

2. Penny Tile Flooring Returns

Small but mighty, penny tiles are returning to center stage in California bathrooms. These tiny circular tiles create intricate mosaic patterns that bring texture and visual interest to any floor. With endless color options, they fit seamlessly into both subtle monochromatic schemes and vibrant retro-inspired designs.

The grout lines add natural slip resistance, combining safety with timeless style, a feature that perfectly complements the revival of vintage West Coast bathrooms.

3. Brass Fixtures Shine Again

Decades ago, mid-century California homes often featured polished or antiqued brass for faucets, towel bars, and light fixtures, adding a touch of glamour to bathrooms. The rich golden hue brought warmth and sophistication, perfectly complementing the state’s vintage-inspired interiors.

Modern brass finishes come in options from polished to antiqued. Unlike earlier versions, these fixtures are coated to prevent tarnishing, making them both stylish and practical for everyday use in California’s steamy bathroom environments.

4. Pedestal Sinks Make Waves

Graceful and space saving, pedestal sinks are experiencing a well-deserved comeback. These elegant fixtures showcase beautiful porcelain work while visually expanding smaller bathrooms.

Modern versions maintain the classic silhouette but often feature updated proportions. The open space beneath creates an airy feel, while the sculptural quality of these sinks transforms a utilitarian fixture into a genuine piece of bathroom art.

5. Subway Tile With A Twist

Subway tile has never really gone out of style, but in California bathrooms it is being reimagined in exciting new ways. Beyond traditional white, these rectangular tiles now appear in jewel tones, pastels, and even glass versions, reflecting the state’s playful and sun-filled design aesthetic.

Playing with installation patterns creates fresh looks. Try herringbone or vertical stacking instead of the classic brick pattern. Contrasting grout colors can further emphasize the design, turning your bathroom walls into stunning architectural features that blend vintage charm with modern flair.

6. Wood Accents Warm Things Up

Incorporating wood elements brings natural warmth to bathroom spaces that might otherwise feel cold and clinical. In classic California bathrooms, vintage-inspired wooden medicine cabinets, vanities, and even ceiling treatments were commonly used to add character and a cozy, inviting feel.

Homeowners often chose rich woods like teak or oak, which naturally resist moisture, combining practicality with style. A wooden stool or bath caddy offers a simple way to echo this timeless West Coast trend without a major renovation.

7. Statement Mirrors Reflect Style

Forget plain rectangular mirrors. These vintage-inspired statement mirrors are transforming bathroom walls into gallery-worthy displays. Ornate gold frames, medicine cabinet styles, or uniquely shaped mirrors add instant personality.

These focal points reflect more than just your image; they reflect your design sensibility. For maximum impact, position your statement mirror where it can catch natural light. Many vintage styles feature interesting details like beveled edges or subtle antiquing for added charm.

8. Bold Wallpaper Makes A Splash

Wallpaper is back with a vengeance in bathroom design. Botanical prints, geometric patterns, and toile designs that recall bygone eras are appearing on bathroom walls everywhere.

Californians have long appreciated wallpaper as a way to add personality and charm to their bathrooms. In mid-century West Coast homes, patterned walls were a popular choice, bringing color, texture, and a touch of sophistication to these often small spaces. Modern wallpapers are now engineered to withstand humidity, making it easy to recreate that classic style today.

9. Wainscoting Adds Architectural Interest

In sunny California homes, wainscoting brings instant character and protection to bathroom walls. This classic wall treatment typically covers the lower third of walls with wood paneling, adding texture and architectural interest.

Paint it crisp white for a traditional look or try a bold color for modern flair. Beyond aesthetics, wainscoting serves a practical purpose by protecting walls from splashes and humidity. It pairs beautifully with wallpaper above for a truly vintage-inspired look.

10. Glass Block Windows Bring Back Light

Glass blocks are making a surprising comeback as California homeowners rediscover their ability to provide privacy without sacrificing natural light. These translucent blocks create interesting light patterns throughout the day.

Modern installations often use them in shower enclosures or as feature windows. Their insulating properties help maintain bathroom warmth while their textured surface obscures visibility. For a contemporary take, try colored or frosted glass blocks that complement your color scheme.

11. Pastel Colors Soften The Space

Soft mint green, pale pink, and powder blue are returning to bathrooms, recalling the colorful bathrooms of the 1950s. These gentle hues create a soothing atmosphere that feels both nostalgic and fresh.

Try incorporating pastels through tile, painted walls, or even colored fixtures for the truly adventurous. For a subtle approach, keep fixtures white and add pastel accents through textiles and accessories. These colors pair beautifully with brass or gold hardware for a sophisticated vintage look.