Every modern bathroom needs an antique touch
From armoires, chests of drawers and occasional chairs to chandeliers and mirrors, contemporary bathrooms are stepping into the limelight as the perfect spaces to highlight antiques; transforming traditional utilitarian rooms into places of outstanding beauty.
The bold and decorative statement of incorporating antiques in an essentially minimalist and practical context creates an undeniable welcoming decor narrative that deserves an entire blog. (This is actually not the first blog covering our love affair with antiques in bathrooms).
Mixing and matching antiques in modern spaces is not a new trend, but bathrooms are often overlooked when designing these spaces.
Antiques will always trump mass-produced pieces. They hold their value and add a unique charm that transcends trends and fads, making them the perfect choice for those seeking to infuse their spaces with surprising character, personalised charm and inspired layering. The welcome juxtaposition of antique pieces against sleek, modern fixtures offers a harmonious balance that elevates the overall design of a well-decorated bathroom.
The unexpected fusion of antique treasures in contemporary bathroom decor illustrates how timeless pieces not only tell stories of the past but also redefine the aesthetic of the present.
Step into a world with us where the past meets the present, where tradition seamlessly combines with modernity, and where bathrooms get a facelift with the addition of antique treasures and collectables:
Chests of drawers | A Fusion of functionality and style
The longstanding interior design practice of marrying practicality with aesthetics catapults antique chests of drawers as a decor revelation in contemporary bathrooms.
By converting an antique chest of drawers, dresser or sideboard into a bathroom vanity – or just adding them as additional storage – you are celebrating an aged piece’s intricate craftsmanship and patina, adding warmth and bespoke character to your bathroom. Pair these items with a modern vessel sink and sleek mixer to create a stunning visual contrast.
Picture a refurbished 18th-century chest or a Louis-style mahogany, rosewood and fruitwood bombe chest vanity taking pride of place in your bathroom. The fusion of an old-world statement piece with modern convenience creates a balance that honours both style and utility.
Armoires | Grandeur beyond the bedroom
Armoires are highly desirable pieces and here at The Crown Collection, our handpicked options will have you swooning. Antique armoires, once confined to bedrooms, are making a grand 21st-century entrance into contemporary bathrooms. These imposing pieces, often crafted with intricate detailing, are a valuable storage solution for towels, linens, and toiletries.
A Victorian Linen Press or a 19th-century French Oak Armoire, with bevelled mirrors, can transform your bathroom into a regal retreat. Their generous storage capacity, paired with exquisite craftsmanship, elevates the beauty and functionality of these antique pieces.
Mirrors | Decor magic on the wall
A mirror – a quintessential element of any bathroom – easily becomes a statement piece when replaced with an antique version. Ornate frames, intricately carved details and gilded finishes provide a touch of opulence to the simplest of spaces; not only serving a practical purpose but also acting as artistic focal points. Hanging an antique mirror above a modern vanity or placing one strategically will reflect light and open up the space.
If you have the space, go big and bold with a large antique mirror that stands on the floor. The dramatic wow factor adds a soft finish to contemporary styles and will turn any bathroom into a space that sings the praises of distinctive antique flourishes.
Chandeliers | Illuminating elegance
Lighting is a key design element to setting the mood in any space, and the bathroom is no exception. Antique chandeliers, with their timeless allure, are becoming popular choices for a touch of glamour in modern bathrooms.
For a timeless touch of opulence, consider antique chandeliers or wall sconces. The play of light through antique light fixtures creates a serene and inviting ambience, transforming any bathing experience. The juxtaposition of antique lighting in a modern setting presents a captivating visual narrative that transcends eras.
Silverware | The finishing touch
No bathroom decor is complete without the subtle gleam of repurposed antique silverware. Incorporating small but impactful details – silver trays, jugs or candle holders – can create a cohesive aesthetic, tying together the various antique elements in your bathroom.
The delicate shine and subtle style of small antique vignettes – like perfume bottles, apothecary jars, or ornate soap dishes – infuse individualised personality and story into your bathroom.
Bathrooms are important spaces, where we spend a lot of time,” says interior designer Sarah Vanrenen. “We always try to make them look beautiful and comfortable and treat them like any other room, incorporating pictures and paintings, soft furnishings, wallpaper and antiques.”
Interior designers and homeowners alike are increasingly drawn to infusing layers of history into their homes. The marriage of antiques in contemporary bathrooms has become a popular choice for those who appreciate the significance of each piece, and the personalised mix of old and new creates a showstopping presence and a curated aesthetic that is both visually appealing and emotionally resonant.
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