This Bathroom Trend Will Literally Stand the Test of Time
Midcentury modern is one of the most versatile and beloved design styles out there. Originating in the 1940s and '50s, the style is defined by rich wood tones, saturated colors, and clean lines. And while it's easy to pick out the ideal midcentury sofa or dining table, outfitting your bathroom in the style can be difficult. The best midcentury modern bathroom ideas focus on the room's functionality while infusing it with the vintage style we know and love.
Whether you're looking for tile inspiration that goes beyond white rectangles or need insight on the right wood stain for a vanity, these midcentury modern bathroom ideas have it all. Plus, they're all interior designer-approved. If you prefer a more neutral color palette, focus on incorporating midcentury style through your hardware and color schemes—mahogany woods and aged brass are always a good pairing. For those with more maximalist sensibilities, opt for walls of ochre tile or wood paneling to add detail and drama.
No matter how deep you want to dive into the midcentury modern bathroom pool, we have you covered with 20 timeless ideas that bring midcentury modern design into the 21st century.
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Keep Lines Clean
In this Bel Air home, Studio Shamshiri opted for a simple yet impactful bathroom design so as to not distract from the views of nature outside. The rich wood tones and straight lines of the vanity showcase the midcentury inspiration. Pair with silver hardware for the ultimate '50s feel.
Embrace Wood Paneling
Wood paneling is often seen as a dated design feature. However, in a light stain, like in this Maestri Studio-designed bathroom, the paneling imbues the space with character and warmth.
Use Hexagonal Tiles
Non-square tiles can instantly add character to an otherwise bland bathroom. Here, Hommeboys Interiors added brass accents to the variegated tile walls to further accentuate the midcentury feeling.
Try Colored Fixtures
Designer Sarah Anderson-Magness wanted to honor the history of this Frank Lloyd Wright home. In the ochre bathroom, a pale pink sink—a staple of the era—contrasts with the brown tile beautifully.
Focus on Geometry
While the floors in this bathroom may not draw the eye immediately, the intricate geometric pattern only gets better the more you look at it. Maestri Studio used small triangles to create the effect.
Highlight Fluted Wood
Stained wood is a key element of midcentury design. If you're looking for more texture, try fluted wood panels. Here, J. Jordan Homes opted for a moody look by pairing the wood with a slate blue paint color.
Use Bold Colors
Meghan Shadrick added a striking pop of red in this primary bathroom with this playfully shaped mirror. Because the frame's wood coordinates perfectly with the wooden vanity, the space still feels cohesive.
Play With Shapes
Designer Breegan Jane's primary bathroom is open to the rest of her bedroom. To help add privacy (and glamour), large, octagonal mirrors were installed.
Use Colorful Tile
Designer Caitlin Jones Ghajar worked with this apartment's original teal tile, preserving it rather than renovating it. Midcentury bathrooms were known for their experimental color schemes, like the lavender and blue used here.
Install Task Lighting
An easy way to incorporate midcentury modern design elements into your bathroom is to use lighting. Here, designer Liz Hoekzema chose black and bronze task lighting to add a vintage feel to this modern bathroom.
Accent With Black
Create contrast in your midcentury modern bathroom by using black accents instead of white. Here, designer Sam Sacks chose a dramatic countertop, along with lighting and hardware that add depth to the fluted wood vanity.
Use a Tonal Palette
In this powder room, the Brownstone Boys opted for a pink-on-pink color palette. The bright hues liven up this windowless room, and the varying tones keep the colors interesting rather than monotonous.
Try Colorful Stone
Add a pop of color into your bathroom in an unexpected way with stone. A pink marble in this bathroom, designed by Sam Sacks, creates a cheerful and vintage-inspired design scheme.
Pair Wood With Brass
Wood tones are versatile enough to work with any design style; it's why the material is so beloved. But for a distinctly midcentury feeling, pair the planks with brass hardware. Take inspiration from this powder room by designer Courtney Bishop.
Try a Patterned Tile
Designed by Gina Sims, this “random” tile layout adds visual interest without looking stale or cookie-cutter. The sage green color adds a midcentury look to the space.
Soften the Edges
To further honor this Palm Beach bungalow's 1960s history, designer Gillian Segal used these statement-making mirrors to contrast with the primary bathroom's more romantic fixtures, like the sconce and faucet.
Use Saturated Tones
Midcentury design is known for its bold color schemes. Take inspiration from designer Gina Sims and paint your vanity in a bright color, like this olive green. Keep the rest of the room neutral to help the piece stand out.
Use Round Lighting
Not one for minimalism, designer Gillian Segal added visual interest in this peachy-pink bathroom with funky lighting. A pair of round, vintage yellow sconces were chosen, complementing the circular mirror and the home's 1960s design perfectly.
Try Wainscoting
Tile is typically used in bathrooms to guard walls from splashes and spills. But take inspiration from Gina Sims and try wooden wainscoting instead. Pair it with graphic art and black tile for a more midcentury design.
Add Interest to Wooden Vanities
Rather than flat-front cabinetry for this wooden bathroom vanity, design firm Banner Day Interiors chose one with subtle arched details. This adds a modern feel to the otherwise traditional space, especially when paired with a clean, white marble counter.
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