You can’t deny it anymore—retro bathrooms are back, and these 7 chic yet personality-filled ideas are a lesson in how to nail the look.
Retro bathrooms are in style—and for good reason. They’re a fun way to bring a unique touch to your design, with a nod to nostalgic aesthetics we just can’t seem to let go of.
Since we moved away from the sleek white bathrooms that once dominated, retro décor ideas have thrived thanks to their playful patterns, unexpected colors, and character-filled features. And now it’s time to bring that style into your bathroom.
Not sure where to start? Here are some stylish ways to add a retro flair to your space—from revived tile materials and bold prints to nostalgic color combos we can’t get enough of.
7 ways to bring retro style to your bathroom
According to Homes & Gardens, there are no set rules when it comes to designing a retro bathroom. You can pull inspiration from multiple styles and eras to create a space that feels unique, full of personality, and above all, nostalgic.
Take a look at these retro schemes for designer-approved inspiration, as featured on Homes & Gardens.
1. Introduce playful wallpaper
(Image credit: House of Hackney)
Bathroom wallpaper is a great way to introduce a retro touch to your space. Think vintage-inspired prints and bold colors that add a strong dose of personality and unique charm.
“Bathrooms are often the starting point for those dipping into maximalism. They offer a space where people feel they can be more adventurous with design and opt for bolder, more playful schemes,” says Chloe Vince, senior decoration consultant at House of Hackney.
In this scheme, a pink and yellow feather print adds a bold design touch that feels distinctly retro, while vintage-style light fixtures, a mirror, and eclectic artwork complete the collector’s feel.
2. Embrace Art Deco style
Retro décor is broad and varied, but classic Art Deco aesthetics always come to mind. If you want a more traditional approach to retro, this style is ideal for striking a balance between timeless and characterful—just like in this scheme.
“There’s so much to love about this bathroom! Its design is centered around a Victorian-style bathtub, with nods to tile colors and detailing. The tiles create a backdrop for the main feature: the bath,” says Keeley Sutcliffe, design manager at BC Designs.
“It’s a replica of a 20th-century fireclay model, with bulb feet in an Art Deco interpretation—an evolution of traditional claw feet as the style shifted toward smoother, more organic curves. Even the finishing touches, like the towel rail and towels themselves, exude a distinctly retro, vintage vibe.”
3. Bring terrazzo back in style
Terrazzo bathrooms are making a comeback, and the material is ideal for retro-inspired design. Strongly associated with mid-century style, it’s the perfect nostalgic touch.
“Terrazzo is the ultimate retro material, and its use in bathrooms is a fun and sophisticated nod to 1970s design,” says Grazzie Wilson, head of creative at Ca’ Pietra.
“In this particular design, the combination of terrazzo tiles and rich wood cabinetry strikes a perfect balance between retro and modern. Earthy green walls complement the natural tones of the terrazzo, creating a warm, nostalgic vibe. Meanwhile, the deep-toned floating vanity channels strong mid-century influences.”
4. Keep it classic with checkerboard flooring
Some designs are truly timeless and can give your bathroom a retro feel while ensuring it remains elegant for years. One of the most coveted is the classic checkerboard floor.
“When designing a retro bathroom, it’s important for each element to feel intentional. Avoid overwhelming the space with vintage details. Instead, focus on choosing key features—like a classic checkerboard floor—to serve as thoughtful focal points,” says Kalli Karella, designer at Ripple.
“The goal is subtle integration; use retro details to add personality without overpowering the space, resulting in a timeless and refined environment,” she explains.
5. Mix styles and eras for a retro feel
When you think retro, it can span multiple styles and eras. So why not mix a few for a truly unique design? This approach will make your bathroom feel nostalgic yet curated, rather than like a shrine to the past.
“A retro bathroom doesn’t need to stick to a defined era or style, but it should have a distinctive feeling that sets it apart from the present. Try blending various styles and time periods in one space to create a highly personalized look,” says Louise Ashdown, head of design at West One Bathrooms.
This bathroom design references several eras, including Victorian-style floor patterns and double sinks with exposed plumbing reminiscent of early 1900s layouts.
“Fluted lighting and tall arched mirrors give it a modern mid-century feel—a style popular from the 1940s to the 1970s. Their symmetry enhances the retro aesthetic, blending Art Deco elegance with 20th-century practicality. And everything works beautifully together!”
6. Play with retro color palettes
To make a retro bathroom feel stylish in 2025, you need a thoughtful balance of old and new. The goal is to feel inspired by the past, not to replicate it. And your color palette is the perfect place to focus.
“The key is balancing nostalgic touches with modern accessories to keep the overall design functional and elegant. For example, choose a playful palette with soft pastels like mint and blush,” says Kalli.
These softer shades feel nostalgic and retro, yet they still look great in modern settings. This design proves it—pastel tones bring the retro feel and contrast beautifully with the more contemporary vanity.
7. Install vintage-style fixtures
Nothing says retro like a good old-school toilet. These have that nostalgic charm that instantly feels vintage and full of personality. Plus, they offer the right look with all the modern functionality you need.
This bathroom was designed with a few retro yet timeless features. The stars of the space are the vintage-inspired toilet and sink in a striking black and brass color combination.
Checkerboard ceramic floors also reference retro style, while fluted paneling and botanical stripe wallpaper soften the atmosphere and bring in a more traditional touch.
It’s clear we’re all feeling inspired by the retro revival, bringing color, pattern, and unique style into our homes. These ideas are sure to elevate your bathroom design and give it a nostalgic character that stands the test of time.
Source: Homes & Gardens
This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
