Elements Of A Vintage Bath… Cove Molding. Pedestal Sink. Subway Tile.
I almost cannot believe that the bathroom is nearly done… it feels like it’s been ten years.
We’re still waiting on a few things like a second sconce, and towel bars, So in the meantime, here are some details we’re using that reflect an authentic vintage bathroom…
- Cove molding at the base of the subway tile.
Today, subway tile is usually installed directly meeting the floor tile. Or sometimes builders will mix materials and use a wood baseboard.
But if you look at vintage baths, you’ll notice that the original base tile would have been a different design than the rest of the wall—either cove molding, or a different size or shape.
- A pedestal sink.
Technically, we’re using a console sink. Similar to a pedestal sink, it will leave the underside exposed. But with a console you get two legs for support, you have the option for more counter space.
We debated using a base cabinet, (the storage factor can’t be beat). But ultimately I loved the vintage look of a plain porcelain sink, with exposed water shut offs.
I just love everything about the photo below… it’s not actually any detail that we’re using.
On the other end of the spectrum, we’re doing lots of utterly un-vintage details. Like a heated floor, a concealed trapway toilet, modern sconces, and truly giant mirrors.
June 5, 2012 @ 9:13 am
Do you know why there is a Chaise Lounge in the first picture? It just seems out of place in the layout; plus it looks like it doesn’t meet code. Just curious. Thanks!
June 6, 2012 @ 6:43 am
My response posted below…guess I forgot to hit reply!
June 5, 2012 @ 9:20 am
Dunsmuir house in California is now an estate that’s open to the public. (Absolutely worth googling pics of the exterior—it’s gorgeous.) You can rent it for weddings and events… So maybe the lounge is for seating in a ladies’ room? Or just staging?
I can’t say why they put it in there—but I wish my bathroom was sizeable enough for a large piece of furniture!!
September 6, 2013 @ 5:08 pm
Why would this be in a book entitled “Bungalow Bathrooms?” Dunsmuir-Hellman mansion is hardly a bungalow. Unless this is in another building? Guess I will have to go visit and report back.
June 5, 2012 @ 3:15 pm
Makes me want to put vintage elements in my bathroom…you’ve got me thinking about it! Thanks for the post.
June 6, 2012 @ 7:04 am
In your old house, that would be charming. I don’t think I’ve seen any photos of your bath on your blog?
June 21, 2012 @ 2:19 pm
Sorry the reply is so late, I’m just discovering better ways to manage this blog! My bath is just a standard tub 🙁 but since you asked, I will work on those pics next!
June 5, 2012 @ 4:09 pm
Victoria,
Love it. I agree, the subway tile looks so finished with the cove molding. Counter space in a bathroom is essential to me, Hubby wanted pedestal sinks but he doesn’t have to set his mascara down for second while applying eyeliner! 🙂 Heated floors, I’m jealous!
Karen
June 6, 2012 @ 7:04 am
They don’t understand that juggling makeup and curling irons only works if you have seven hands… or some counter space!
June 5, 2012 @ 5:56 pm
I love the modern touches you’re giving your bathroom. It’s all going to come together so beautifully. A little of the old with some of the new.. it makes for a great space. Honestly, these are awesome but yours will top them! All the thought you’ve put into the details will really make the design!
June 6, 2012 @ 7:41 am
Thanks Stacey! I’m a little anxious about the sconces we’ve chosen—they’re very modern, and I had to get them from two different sources, (no one had two in stock). So jury is still out on whether I made the right choice.
June 6, 2012 @ 10:58 pm
I like that you pay attention to details the way you do. Adding a different tile at the bottom of the subway tile is a great idea. Most people wouldn’t consider that.
June 7, 2012 @ 9:17 am
I really wish one of these bathrooms were mine. I would absolutely love something with so much character. Especially the green and white one!
December 16, 2012 @ 9:59 pm
floor tiles that are made of marble are simply elegant.`
December 17, 2012 @ 8:30 am
I agree!
December 19, 2020 @ 8:05 pm
I’m in LOVE with your blog. Amidst a 1925 bathroom remodel (from awful to restoration of the era in which is began) presently here in Oakland. I’m pulling my hair out above coved base tile – I’m going for the 4×4” white wall with black gloss cove base tile, with the black bullnose cap and a black linear one row (of white square tiles) below the cap. We are doing the white hex with black floret detail around the perimeter. Vintage style medicine cabinet above wall mounted vintage sink, installing a claw foot tub, etc.
Cove base tile is near impossible to to figure out – which size, flat top vs sanitary cove base, corners…radius bullnose vs cap vs flush/flat bullnose…. Daltile is a local manufacturer and I plan to storm their design center for help on Monday (I’ve been in school full time until this week).
Found your blog and I wanted to send HUGE PROPS to you as well as to ask if you’d gleaned any resources on this topic. Need to resolve it so that we can tile the floors and walls and place the tub!!!
Thank you in advance for your thoughts/links etc.
February 1, 2021 @ 2:16 pm
I love the window in the picture labeled “La-Chaucer-de-Fonds”. Could you please suggest where to find something like this?
Thank you so much!