Whether renovating a period home or looking to bring additional character to a new build, designing a bathroom which feels characterful can be a challenge. The practical requirements of bathrooms often feel like constraints on design possibilities, causing these spaces to lose their sense of individuality within our homes.

Explaining the appeal of traditional, heritage features, Mike Whitfield, luxury interior expert at LUSSO, explains: “The bathroom is often thought of purely in practical terms, with modern suites lacking warmth, texture and personality, leading to spaces which feel somewhat impersonal. 

“Turning to traditional style can be the perfect antidote to this modern fatigue, offering a look that feels timeless yet contemporary, with updated classical elements that never go out of style.”

So, where do you start if you want to mirror the ornate stylings of heritage stately homes in your own bathroom suite? Mike shares five tips: 

Mike says: “While traditional bathroom suites are rooted in classic design, they offer flexibility in customisation. Homeowners can blend traditional elements with modern touches, creating a transitional style that marries elegance with contemporary functionality.”

Reject clean lines for curved silhouettes 

While modern bathroom suites embrace clean, sharp lines as a default, Mike advises instead to opt for curved shapes and rounded edges to add character to your space.

Mike says: “Curved silhouettes such as oval freestanding bathtubs with roll-top edges are an essential part of a traditional bathroom. These can be cast iron tubs, stone baths, or acrylic baths, depending on your preferred aesthetic.

“A vanity unit is another great piece that will help add to the traditional aesthetic, and it can work as a complementary addition, or as a centrepiece in a room which doesn’t feature a bath.  For smaller rooms, opt for a cloakroom vanity unit that has a sense of traditional character such as marble detail, geometric shapes and shaker style bevel edging.

“Opting for a traditional toilet is another key feature to include, thanks to their rounded, classic shape. Choose a high-level design with a pull chain to add an instant heritage feel to your bathroom.”

Hone in on intricate details 

Mike shares: “Geometric shapes, fluting and sunburst motifs are all intricate details often seen throughout Art Deco interior design. These subtle design elements are essential for capturing a classical look. Instead of opting for plain door handles, choose cup handles or door knobs that display classical detail. 

“Traditional interior design also emphasises decorative woodwork such as graceful, sweeping lines, carved detail and bevel edging which are often seen on vanity units and cabinets. Incorporate warm, honey wooden hues and light tones through walnut and oak woods to create a relaxed ambience.”

Bring in timeless brassware finishes 

Accessories are an essential element of interior design, contributing significantly to the overall sense of luxury and character within a classical space.

Mike advises: “In traditional homes, the use of finishes such as aged bronze, brushed gold, and polished nickel is particularly impactful, as they enhance the sophistication and timeless quality of the interior.

Mike continues: “Aged bronze imparts a sense of warmth and historical depth, while brushed gold introduces an understated yet opulent glow. Polished nickel, with its refined sheen, strikes a harmonious balance between modern elegance and classic tradition. These finishes elevate the design, adding subtle yet powerful layers of richness and detail that transform a traditional space into one of enduring beauty.”

Pair soft neutrals with rich, deep hues 

A timeless colour palette is another significant element of traditional design. 

Mike says: “Muted, neutral tones such as matte white, stone and cream should form the basis of your interior scheme. Then, pick two or three colours to style around your focal piece of decor to fill out the traditional colour palette. Alternatively, bring in visual interest and texture with luxurious heritage materials, such as Carrara marble tiles. 

“Homeowners can also incorporate rich wood finishes through vanity units and other styles of furniture such as oak, walnut or mahogany to create a timeless appeal which oozes traditional character and charm.”

Avoid industrial styles 

Mike warns: “Exposed steel beams, concrete finishes and untreated wood should be avoided when seeking to create a traditional feeling bathroom suite, as they are often associated with industrial and urban design and will feel out of place with classic period styling.”