Vintage bathrooms are very much on trend at the moment. Apart from a vintage bathroom suite other elements to include to recreate a vintage look could be a few statement pieces like a mirror, chair, lights, pictures on the wall, reclaimed tiles or a lovely old piece of furniture. In fact adding an antique or vintage vanity or washstand is the one piece that really encompasses the look.
 
Before the introduction of indoor plumbing vanities were simply a pitcher with a washbasin set on top of a wooden dresser or washstand. To recreate the feel of this history but with a modern twist there is a growing trend of fitting sinks and taps or faucets into old and vintage furniture pieces. Unlike new mass produced ones they can give a more beautiful and unique appearance to your home.
 
Many architectural salvage dealers will have antique and vintage washstands in stock. Some dealers even specialise in antique bathrooms and some also offer a range of quality authentic period style washbasin sets which will provide a similar look. Period reproduction specialists such as Thomas Crapper and Catchpole and Rye are also made in Britain.
 
Vintage taps or faucets, sinks and freestanding vintage furniture are also stocked at many architectural salvage yards if you want to create your own washstand. Upcycling or repurposing old furniture is a lovely way to recreate a vintage look which is all part of the enjoyment of finding an old piece and making it unique to you. However it is not a good idea to use a true antique or you could decrease its value. Many dealers will recraft old items themselves so check your local dealer for upcycled washstands and the classified ads on SalvoWEB.
 
Salvo U.S. advertisers such as Restoration Resources in Boston has a good antique bath range including pedestal and marble-top sinks, tubs, faucets, mirrors, towel bars and often has repurposed items in stock. Reclaimed Home in Brooklyn is also a good sources for repurposed items and can offer advice with DIY.
 
If you are upcycling a vanity yourself then remember to make sure you have all the dimensions of your space including room for the plumbing before you choose your freestanding furniture. The style and piece of furniture chosen will determine your look. Scrubbed pine or painted furniture will cope better with water splashes. Some darker wood pieces may need to be waterproofed to cope with splashes. Alternatively tiles or marble could be used on the top or for a splash back. If you are repurposing a large deep dresser or vintage desk then make sure that you place the sink forward of the front edge to avoid excessive reaching. It is always a good idea to ask your salvage yard for advice on the suitability of taps or faucets and ask if they can recommend a vintage-friendly plumber if you need one. Salvo packs are now available for handy hints on buying and using architectural salvage including antique bathrooms. See SalvoWEB for more details.
 
The end result for all your hard work will be worth it as a vintage bathroom done well will look gorgeous and even add lasting value to your home.
 
House Beautiful has some fabulous design ideas for the vintage look and many other styles of bathroom. Please see the link below for a full range of bathroom design ideas, and salvowebpins on Pinterest for reclaimed and antique bathrooms.