By 2026, bathrooms are expected to evolve into warm, characterful spaces, with freestanding antique-style vanity units becoming a central feature. Interior designers note that these units, often sourced from flea markets or inherited, bring personality and a sense of history to a room, contrasting with modern, wall-mounted alternatives.
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Experts advise selecting a solid, independent piece with visible legs and sufficient depth for plumbing. Suitable candidates include oak sideboards, curved dressers, or vintage consoles, whether genuinely antique or newly crafted with a vintage aesthetic, featuring moulded fronts, brass handles, or fluted wood. Proper preparation includes reinforcing the structure, ensuring water protection, and accommodating plumbing without compromising storage.
Colour schemes and materials further enhance the vintage feel. Soft tones such as clay beige, sand, or sage green complement natural wood, while darker units paired with chocolate browns, cream zellige tiles, and gold fixtures create a retro-chic look. Finishing touches, like marine varnish or hard oils on surfaces and discreet silicone seals, protect the furniture while preserving its charm.
This approach allows homeowners to repurpose heirlooms or curated vintage pieces, creating bathrooms that are distinctive, enduring, and imbued with personal style.
Source: www.lejournaldelamaison.fr
