Here are some design ideas on how to create the perfect Victorian-style bathroom with contemporary flare.
The image of Victorian-style bathrooms is seared into our mind’s eye because that’s the era when the modern bathroom emerged. Not for everybody, of course, only within the houses of the wealthy. Nowadays, however, we can all recreate the Victorian style bathroom thanks to advances in mass manufacturing. Its elegant décor and vintage look fittings are timeless and ooze style. Adapt it for your own home with the following ideas.
The secret to creating the Victorian style bathroom is to think of it as a habitable room. This is, indeed, how the bathroom was first integrated within the Victorian era home (the WC was usually separate). Victorian houses were often laid out before the advent of indoor baths and plumbing. A room was simply adapted when it became fashionable to have a fully equipped indoor bathroom. Subsequently, the bathroom layout was standardised during the 20th Century to the space we know today. Like any room in the home, having good natural light and tall ceilings is a bonus but not necessary. The Victorian-style bathroom can be yours with some judicious choices of materials, fixtures and fittings.
For bathroom flooring to look like authentic Victorian-era décor it must be thought of as a feature. Back in the day, this would be achieved with timber floorboards, marble, ceramic or encaustic floor tiles. Today, we can go one better. With advances in materials technology, we can get the look without the hassle of ongoing maintenance. Listed below are some of the best Victorian-style bathroom ideas in flooring.
In terms of the fixtures and fittings of the Victorian style bathroom, much the same elements are found in today’s bathrooms: bathtub, WC, basin, vanity mirror and storage units. Today, however, these pieces of sanitary ware are infinitely more sophisticated.
Consider the wall finishes together with the flooring as a unified whole for the best results. It was popular for the Victorians to feature timber or tiled dado rail and wainscoting with contrasting finishes. Often ceramic tiling below and a floral pattern wallpaper above the chair rail. The following options can evoke the same effect and add a modern twist.
The details count when recreating a stylish and convincing Victorian ambience. An ornate mirror should be included above the basin, preferably one within a circular or elliptical frame. Pair two separate mirrors over a double washbasin for a seriously chic effect. Copper, chrome or brass taps are another detail that will add a dash of metallic verve and authenticity to the Victorian style sink and bath.
Combine several different light sources to mimic the ‘room’ like quality of the Victorian bathroom. A light installed over the mirror, a wall sconce and a vintage style ceiling lamp work well together. Vintage-styled metal light fittings look the part. Tip: always use humidity-resistant bulbs in the bathroom with an IP rating.
The Victorians loved packing their interiors with stuff; walls were adorned with artworks and photos, surfaces were covered in ornaments and knick knacks. Wallpapers and fabrics had busy prints and floors were usually elaborate. To recreate the Victorian interior, think excess in all things.
Contrasting finishes and materials are recommended for Victorian style décor. Ceramic, timber, chrome and textiles all belong in the Victorian bathroom. Surfaces should feature pattern, whether that be the grain of marble, or wood, a fabric or wallpaper with intricate motifs. When it comes to Victorian interiors more is more, add layer upon layer. Combine an up-cycled dresser or chest for bathroom storage with glazed wall tiles. Fill it with rolled up towels and bathrobes. A collage of art works and photos on the walls will be the cherry on the Victorian décor cake.
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