When Mara signed on the dotted line to buy her new house, she wasn’t quite sure about the original pink bathroom. We’ve heard this “next step” in her story many times now, and it always makes us happy: Looking for ideas on how to live with the pink, Mara hopped online and found SaveThePinkBathrooms.com, one of our microsites. From that point on, she became a pink bathroom convert — deciding her pink bathroom was actually gorgeous and must be saved. Now Mara wonders — what can she do to decorate this space, which poses a special challenge: The beautiful 1″ square tiles are installed on all six walls. That is: The floor and ceiling too. She wants our ideas — read on for her letter, more photos, and then, to offer your suggestions.
Mara wrote:
I will be moving into my new home February 16. [She is now in.] I have an ALL PINK bathroom! I wanted to find ideas to decorate it and came upon your website. I was not sure if I would ”save the pink bathroom” and after seeing your website, I have decided to embrace it! I have attached several pictures. Would love to hear about ways to decorate it from your readers. My style is a mix of retro-modern style… I love a little of pretty much every style. I can’t wait to hear what everyone thinks about the bathroom and their suggestions!
Thank you!
We asked Mara what year her house was built. We expected to hear back… 1960s. But no: The house was built in 1916, she says. Pam will guess: This bathroom was installed in the…. early 60s.
Decorating a bathroom with tile on all four walls, the floor and the ceiling
Take a look at all the photos. Gorgeous tile, to be sure. And lots of it. How to decorate? No paint allowed. And heck, we’d also be wary of putting any holes in to the tile, it looks to be in such terrific condition. Note, looks like there’s a screw in the tile above the toilet — we can hang something there…
There’s a door on the shower. Tip to homeowners: Check if your old shower doors are made of tempered — or untempered — glass. Untempered glass is a safety concern, we are told: Consult with a properly licensed professional to determine what you have and how to handle.
Mara has mentioned that she likes many different styles including retro-modern.
Just outside the pink bathroom in the corner of the master bedroom, Mara has a large vanity and dressing area — complete with a peachy corner sink. With all of that counter space and storage real estate available just steps from the pink bathroom, there’s no need to try and fit any more storage into the bathroom itself.
Kate’s ideas for decorating this pink bathroom:
Kate writes:
Mara’s bathroom was difficult to decorate — all walls, the floor and ceiling are tiled — and there is no need for a shower curtain because of her shower door. That means that any additional color must be brought in with the accessories. I chose to go with white and pink accessories to give the room a light and airy feel. Obviously, she doesn’t need — or have the space for — all the accessories I have listed in number 3. Possibly just the trash can, tissue holder and soap pump would be needed. I’ve chosen a mix of modern and vintage — the vintage or vintage-style art, bathroom scale and bathmat are combined with modern towels, toilet brush and accessories. If Mara prefers either a more feminine, flowery and vintage look, it would be easy to swap out the simple modern accessories with more ornate vintage styled accessories — or vice versa.
For more contrast, another classic retro combination is pink and black, which would give the room a bolder, punchier feel. To add more color to the space, pale yellow, aqua, green, blue or purple would all work, too. It all depends on what colors appeal to Mara. Since these accessories aren’t expensive changes — Mara could start out with a pink and white color scheme and if she grows tired of it in a few years, simply change up the towels and bath mat to another color scheme. The pink is really quite versatile.
- Vintage metal flower wall hanging from Etsy seller MollyMcShabby
- Croft & Barrow quick drying pink towels (you could also do white towels) from Kohl’s
- Wamsutta Bath Elements accessories (available in white or pink) from Bed Bath and Beyond
- Vintage pale pink glitter bath scale from Ebay seller MidMod14
- Castile Rose Bathmat from Anthropologie
- Modern toilet brush holder from Urban Outfitters
Pam’s ideas for decorating this pink bathroom:
Pam writes:
Mara can use towels, rugs and a few decor items to bring just about any accent color she wants into the bathroom. The soft 1960s pink in her bathroom is actually pretty darn neutral — it would coordinate well with most any soft pastel, as well as grey or brown. Mara also can swap out the shower door, if she likes, for a shower curtain instead. This would be a great way to add some softness to the bathroom. Note, old shower doors may be made of non-tempered glass — this is a safety issue to investigate; consult with a properly licensed professional.
As you can see from my mood board, I played with a soft green as the accent color for the bathroom.
Moreover, I put my big decorating focus on the “anteroom”. Because the opportunity to introduce color into the bathroom itself is so limited, my key idea was to decorate the dressing room area as if it were an extension of the bathroom. Which it is.
You know me, I love my vintage wallpaper. The launching point for everything here was the vintage wallpaper from Hannah’s Treasures. I adore this wallpaper — it has all the right colors to put in the bedroom adjacent to the bathroom. The design of the paper seems kind of soft and glowy — which works up next to the soft and glowy bathrooom… and, it doesn’t take itself too seriously.
The shower curtain I found has “swiss dots” — like the wallpaper!
I also thought that this bedroom space screamed for wall-to-wall carpeting. Sure enough, I found a design at Shaw Carpets that has a sculpted design that might work. However, “Muslin” sounds like it might be too yellow for my design concept, I’d need to see the carpet in the room and next to the wallpaper.
I then played around with accessories and lighting.
AND IMPORTANT, I *think* — That sunken bathtub scares me. ON THIS ISSUE: I advise that you consult with a properly licensed professional — a professional bathroom designer, I *think*, and/or talk to your local building inspector for guidance *maybe the answer* BUT DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH TO FIND THE RIGHT PROFESSIONAL — to assess the safety of the entry and egress of that sunken bathtub. You don’t want to fall in… you don’t want to slip when getting out.
My design is for a “girl next door” meets her “inner sex kitten” bedroom/bathroom. I named it “Please Don’t Eat the Daisies Pink” in honor of that old movie — and in honor of all those 50s and 60s girl-next-door-movie-wives who also had that little twinkle in their eyes.
- Vintage ceiling light from etsy seller QueenDecor
- Vintage wallpaper from Hannah’s Treasures
- Vintage vanity stool from etsy seller DavisMerc (we changed the color of the seat cushion via photoshop)
- Wall to wall carpet – Shaw Flooring “Fine Memory” in Muslin
- Vintage wicker shelf from etsy seller ShabbyNChic
- Vintage green bath towel set from ssmith7157
- Shower curtain is Swiss Dot in White from Coyuchi on Amazon (also available from other online retailers)
Readers — how would you add some decoration to this pretty pink tiled bathroom?
This is a fabulous bathroom! And so sanitary! I have never cleaned a tile ceiling, but imagine a mop would do the job fine.
I don’t see the light fixture, but maybe something fun and strange would be good. I would use those fluffy white rugs that look like polar bears on the floor to soak up some sound. And if the wall opposite the toilet is empty, I might add some sort of ottoman/low table that you could store your CD/wireless player in for when you take a nice soak in the tub. Also, if you live with other people, you may reconsider adding some sort of small storage in the bathroom, because someone, sometime is going to use up all the toilet paper and there you’ll be.
Ooooh, Mara, you are a lucky duck! What a great bathroom and I LOVE that vanity and dressing area. I’m excited to see what everyone comes up with today.
Even if she doesn’t need storage she can still put some decor type storage. Maybe a nice towel hamper?
I am sort of liking the simple look. Maybe just white towels like a hotel might have had in the era? I do think the tub seems to be calling for a grab bar. Looks, like it could be a little dangerous to get in the tub. Maybe some retro vinyl clings for the tile would work? That would bring color, like maybe turquoise and then turquoise towels could work. For toilet paper, a freestanding holder would work. http://centuryhouseinc.com/primo-standing-toilet-paper-holder.html
a stainless or chrome trash can would be good too. I think the architecture of the bath is really the great design. You might want a good steam cleaner to keep all that tile clean! The bath is in great shape. Other problem that I am seeing–are there any plugs? seems like plugs would be helpful. I don’t see any in the dressing area either.
I think you have a great foundation here! I would consider ways to use towels, rugs and a small bench or storage piece to add personality and break up the pink. On the towel bar over the tub, you could hang towels or even a piece of fab fabric to add texture. I like Kate H’s idea about a bench or storage piece. That could be a spot to display some knick knacks, decorative storage containers or a plant. You could even add a sink skirt to further soften up the space and pretty up the view from the bedroom.
I was also going to suggest a sink skirt. And live greenery.
Didn’t think about the safety hazards of the sunken tub; just thought of it like a fabulous bathroom conversation pit!
And I do believe the toilet seat (lid) needs to be changed.
My personal inclination would be to go w/black accents. 2nd choice green; possibly different shades. Mostly dark greens w/hints of light.
Fabulous space. And oh, the dressing area…!
~ Jealous in Manhattan
It’s a fabulous bathroom! The only thing I could do is update that u*** [edited] sink and maybe change out the toilet. Dress is up instead of tearing it all out.
FYI Melinda (and this is not meant to pick on you, but rather, to inform all new-ish readers), we don’t use the u-, h-, or d- words here. See this story: http://retrorenovation.com/2012/07/02/retro-renovators-creed-gut-remodel-without-guilt/
It’s hard to know what the forbidden words are when they’re edited in the link. I’ve been trying to guess what “d” word I’m not supposed to use and it’s not coming to me. Probably because I don’t comment much and never to berate someone’s bathroom. I suppose I’ll figure it out if I ever use it.
“dated”, “ugly”, “hideous” and “hate” are the key perpetrators. The sort of golden rule of commenting here (which really is The Golden Rule stated another way, as it relates to decorating) is, “No on can be made to feel bad for their decisions.” Again, read the story linked in the comment I made just above, for more elaboration.
No! The sink and toilet are wonderful. I’d gladly take that sink for my own bathroom.
Some people spend their lives looking for fixtures that match that well! I wouldn’t touch them. They are perfect.
I adore your pink sink on chrome legs, lowboy toilet and sunken tub! The only thing I’d considering doing to those fixtures is changing the toilet seat — hard to tell, but its pinkish color looks a bit off. If you decided to go with a pink-and-black theme, a black toilet seat might look pretty swanky. (But, I’m with Pam about tying the bath and anteroom dressing area together with color if you can.)
Also change the light/mirror and the windows. Warm it up so it doesn’t look like a hospital…..
The mirror and light fit the bathroom very nicely, I think!
Melinda only likes the tiles apparently… May not need to comment
I LOVE the sink – and the matching potty! The light fixture is fab too!
An array of gorgeous tropical plants. I’d love to see a flowering begonia climbing that towel rack. The shades of green and different plant textures will break up the pink monotony. I LOVE the sunken tub!
How about one of those rugs that goes around the toilet? You’d probably have to get it altered since the shape of the toilet is more squared than usual, but if you really want to break up the pink or soften the sound with more rugs, this might help, plus I think those things were really common in that era.
Fabulous! If it were mine, I’d use a single color to unify both areas-maybe a peachy orange if you’re feeling daring. The storage bench is a great idea! I’d put a skirt on that sink-maybe with box pleats to accent those clean tile lines-and upholster the bench in the same fabric…what about one of those frameless stretched canvas pictures hanging from that screw? It could be big and bold-they are pretty weightless, and carry that color into the dressing area with a rug and towels-and maybe a bold glass accent on that beautiful vanity. Can’t wait to see what you come up with-you lucky girl!
You could use some tension rods, and add curtains, to the glass block window and a sink skirt to the sink, to hide your trash can. Then add some pretty towels and rugs, yes, and maybe some plants in Bauer flowerpots? ( Skirt on sink and curtains should be tailored looking, not frilly…) That is what I would do!
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I would decorate with a bunch of these guys:
https://www.etsy.com/listing/121933959/1960-lucite-abalone-shell-large-10?ref=sr_gallery_1&sref=sr_b4f42499491c20d17e0be921a17805f48f1bd8ca002b8a260c433d0d97ffcccb_1362662777_14318135_vintage&ga_search_query=Vintage+seahorse+wall&ga_order=most_relevant&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=US&ga_search_type=all
You can get them in all colors and it would add that little excentricity to your beautiful bathroom:-)
I LOVE this idea! They could be hung with those 3M stick on hangers. I also like the idea of a sink skirt. For heavens sake do not tear out the sink, toilet, or tub. They are original and amazing! Best of luck with the decorating and have fun!
Absolutely fabulous..both rooms. The bathroom is incredible. I love the clean, retro spa feel. I would go with that less is more look. I might throw in a really cool bark cloth shower curtain. There are some great patterns out there that could really pop in this room. If I put any furniture in this room, I would go with something clear to keep up the high end look. Glam it up but keep it uncluttered.
Now, the dressing area would be where you could really “shine”! You could do so much in there. From the reflection, it looks like the sliding doors have an almost Eames like curve to them. So cool. A few great lamps, bark cloth, super glam… 50′s kitsch with art deco details.. tropical… the works!
Mara,
Oh, leave it!. How fabulous. After looking at it, here is what I would do that would not permanently alter the tile.
1. Build a slightly raised slatted teak floor on top of the tile – like a removable deck. http://www.homeinfatuation.com/prod/Teak-Rectangular-Floor-Mats-for-Hot-Tubs-Showers-and-Patio.cfm/cid/2603
2. Add green. Pink goes great with green, white, black and gold. Add some plants. You could suspend a couple of large teak panels from the ceiling too. Wire on bromeliads or stag ferns with moss.
3. Add large pieces of artwork. Make sure it is not behind glass or it will mold. Oil or acrylic on canvas. Hang on wires from ceiling like museums.
4. Add wood and natural colored wicker pieces.
5. Build a teak and brass enclosure for bottom of sink.
All this would look very zen like, and you could literally hose it down. And it would cost very little compared to a full bathroom redo.
The storage, rugs, plants, groovy light fixture and curtains are all wonderful ideas, you may need to pick and choose which ones you like best.
If you want to hang anything on the walls don’t forget those handy Command Strips. One strip holds 3 lbs. but combine them and you can hold up to 12 lbs. and no worried about damaging any tile!
I really like the plant idea but what would make it even better is if the plant/s have pink in them too! I found a website with a list of pink or partially pink leaves
http://plantsarethestrangestpeople.blogspot.com/2009/11/list-houseplants-with-totally-or.html?m=1
i say some nice plants on stands…so as to not put more holes in the walls but still add some color. the green of the leaves will bring out the pink of the walls (complementary colors!). and i like the white fluffy rug idea.
I see all that lovely, soft pink, and I want to see contrast. I would find black towels, perhaps even a black and white damask patterned towel, and some strong black shapes for the wall. I wonder if there are big black goldfish plaques out there somewhere? Black and gold and silver and pink!
A bright lime green rug and towels! You’ll never need coffee to wake up in the morning! Nothing else needed (or really can be used as you would never ever want to put holes in that tile!)
My personal taste would be white shag throw rug (rubber bottom) in front of the sink/shower entrance. Fluffy White towels hanging on the towel racks. White or chrome trash can. The sink and toilet are gems! Replace toilet seat. Repaint around window that opens in glass block, with chrome paint, or silver. Shine up all that chrome and protect it! You could also put a sink curtain (in a retro fun pattern, I would probably just use white:) to hide toilet paper and the water pipes, or just find a shiny/chrome basket or container to hide toilet paper in, and sit on back of toilet. I would replace the peach sink in the vanity, with white, and refinish counter. I would use the screw in the wall over the toilet, possibly with a retro round mirror. But would leave the rest of the walls. The pink tile and chrome are the show stoppers. Clean lines, shiny chrome, easy cleaning. What a gorgeous pink bathroom!
I’d only change the medicine cabinet for a smaller (same height) one, it now is wider than the sink (off balance). And a new toiletseat (or at least a cover), seems (on the pictures) this one is getting pale. Would be great if you could find one with a chrome lid/paint it.
Keep the bathroom as empty as possible, no rugs no curtain, it speaks for itself.
Not practical to do, there will be gaps in the wall, plus integrity of existing tile might be compromised.
This is a simple bathroom,seriously look how lucky she is to have everything in such good condition! All she needs to do is pick her choice of color to compliment the pink ( black,gray,teal/turquoise, brown,white, cream on & on) Lots of towels/hand towels (lol they are cheap and heck she could pick 2 of her fav colors and switch out during the year!) look at all the places to hang those towels that’s color EVERYWHERE! Throw down some rugs & add a picture or whatever on that screw, maybe a plant to give it a little life…..keep it simple!
I would not change anything that is already there. It is wonderful! One thing I would add: some type of grab bar to help yourself up out of the sunken tub. At some point you may need help getting out whether it be from age, recuperating from injury / surgery, and for safety!
YES. Please note, that in my mood board discussion coming up at noon, I say that I really think that Mara needs to find and consult with a properly licensed professional(s) to ensure the safe entry and egress on that tub!!! She needs to do her own research to find the *right* type of professional — I think I would start with my local building inspectors, who are terrific resources and could help understand what the building code says regarding a feature like this… she could also work with a certified bathroom designer on implementing the solution, I think. Again, though, she needs to do her own research on finding the right professional(s) to assess this issue.
We have exactly the same style sunken tub in our 1969 house, except ours is blue. I can honestly say that we’ve had no problem getting in or out of it. We actually have two sunken tubs, this one and a much deeper tiled Roman tub, and we love them both.
Pink tile always seems a bit glam and flashy to me, and it makes me think of the glitzy cars of the 50′s. A popular combination with those cars was a pink, grey, and black paint scheme.
For this gorgeous bath, I would try a mid-mod abstract piece of art with those colors over the toilet, rich grey towels, a fluffy carpet (in the central area) of either white or black, and a coordinating small storage unit on the wall opposite the toilet. I would try to find one with chrome, and possibly some mirror to echo the mirror over the sink.
A terrific bathroom—love the dressing room!
Don’t go “poodle” on this bathroom—it’s too modern. Use hot pink and bright green towels and rugs to brighten it up. Research 60′s lamp fixtures.
You might want to bring some of the colors (probably green) into the dressing room to make a transition.
A previous poster mentioned a piece of furniture in one corner–I could go with that and maybe a piece of sculpture on it.
I’d use a tension rod on which to hang a curtain over the tub, since I always like to feel cozy when soaking.
But I’d pull it back with a nice cord when not in use. (I’d leave the window alone — the tub curtain would do the trick of adding color and some privacy, and I’d hate to put holes in the tile with a curtain rod. I’d also skirt the adorable sink with a coordinating fabric, under which I’d store some extra rolls of tp, due to its proximity to the toilet. That rod hanging on the left side of the sink is a perfect spot for a magazine or two to be placed. (There is already a towel bar on the wall to the right of the sink, as well as another one on the right side of the sink — how many hand towels do you need at one time?!) Definitely add some floor rugs for warmth, to muffle sound, and for safety. Hang wall decor using hooks or screws already in place, or buy some of those plastic adhesive ones that are removable w/o harming the tile. The color? I’d stay away from much pink, since it is already the dominant color in the room, and pick another color or two that really speaks to you when paired with the pink. Pink/gray? Pink/black? Pink/aqua? A combo of pink/gray/black? Etc… Maybe a really cool pair of vintage bark cloth curtains in a pattern you love will decide for you. Vintage bark cloth can get pricey, but that is where I’d spend the money when it came to making a design statement in this wonderful bathroom. At any rate, have fun experimenting! I LOVE the bathroom/dressing area, you lucky duck! 
Oh, I forgot about the toilet — a toilet seat that matches the toilet would be grand. (And if you can’t find one, wood toilet seats can be painted…or covered with matching fabric or rug material.)
Oh, wow, this one is right up my alley! I have the exact same tile in my bathroom, but tiled in off-white with black floor. It was installed in this 1940′s cape in the mid-sixties. I have a built-in ceramic towel bar over the toilet and also in the bathtub enclosure. My husband wants to rip out the tub tile because it is in bad shape, but I won’t let him so we live with two huge holes covered with plastic! Eventually he will fix it. The problem is that it is impossible to hang anything at all. I am afraid of cracking or knocking off the tiles if attempting to put in a nail or screw. The roofers banging on the roof last year caused alot of damage in the seams and grout of the ceilings and corners just from the concussion. The former owner put in a vanity which I intend to remove and put a sink back in as shown in this bathroom. I think everyone has great ideas but mine is so tiny, there is little I can do other than rugs, towels and curtains. I found a hooked rug look type of bathmat that makes the entire bathroom and went from there. Pink is the main focus but I should do black too as suggested – never thought of that even though I have a black floor. Wonderful bathroom and I am so glad to see Mara has saved it. I love it just the way it is, and I think the dressing room is fantastic!
It sounds like my bathroom – two holes with plastic in my tub surround as well! The thought of putting up new (not vintage) tile makes me too sad…..so I’m stalling. Glad to hear there are others like me!!
I wouldn’t change a thing – just add (as space allows) one of those Harriet Carter-esque TP storage cylinders, a vintage hamper for towels, and maybe a big fabulous Blenko floor vase, filled with bamboo sticks or something, for some contrast.
Oh, and if at all possible, one of those pouffy little 60′s bathroom chairs, just for a bit of camp. She definitely needs one of those for her vanity.
Oops, looking at the pictures again, I see there’s no room for a campy chair or hamper. So I’d concentrate on the Blenko. As long as kids aren’t in the picture
This must be an awesome home. I am not a lover of looking at sink pipes so I would add a classy box pleated drape around the sink. The command strips will allow you to add art to the walls without damaging the tile. I’d like to see perhaps some vintage silhouettes – follow a theme – and I would only use cream or white rugs/towels. I also would change out the sink in the dressing area — love all the counter space for your toiletries/. I don’t think the tub needs a shower curtain but I’d add some lace curtains and tie them back (again – use command strips for that and spring loaded curtain rod) with a gorgeous coordinated ribbon. This will soften the look. It is also begging for some sort of shelving so perhaps a very narrow book case to hold necessities and knick knacks that just sits on the floor (not hung). You’ll have to post the finished pictures. I’m not sure plants will thrive in there because of a lack of natural light but worth a try. Good Luck you lucky lady.
Trish, my tile has that tiny pebbly surface and command strips don’t work, either because of the surface or because of the humidity in the bathroom or both. I thought of that and was very disappointed they don’t hold. It is very frustrating to me to not be able to hang anything on the walls. I did get a cloth fabric shade with a print to add some color other than towels. One thing I love in my bathroom that may work too is putting up a floral swag. I put one over my curtain rod that drapes down both sides and possibly this could be done somewhere in this bathroom too.
I agree with others who say leave it as is…. the only thing I don’t care for is the hopper window in the glass block, although I am sure it is practical. I would say add a ventilation fan as I will almost guess it does not have an exhaust fan as those were not a standard bathroom feature in houses with a bathroom window until the 80′s. My grandparents house was very similar in that the bathroom was all turquiose like this one (only the tub was not sunken and no tiles on the ceiling) and it was built in 1959. Make no changes and limit decorating to a piece or two of artwook and just use a single color of solid towels and rugs. For art, I suggest a Steve Kaufman painting…. his work has jumped in price since his death, but several are shown here http://www.serbagunamarine.com/rare-steve-kaufman-barbie-2900-00.html the Barbie, Beatles, Elvis, Mao or one of the Marilyn painting all have pink in them and I would use one above the toilet and pick up another color out of the painting for towels and rugs. And do replace that toilet seat or have it repainted the right shade of pink.
Wow!! Ladies, keep it coming I LOVE the ideas! I do not plan on removing anything that is already in the bathroom. It was done with so much sytle and grace. All I would like to do is figure out a way to decorate it! Thank you!
And, gentlemen!
Yes, and GENTLEMEN!! Thank you!
I’m not sure what the climate is where you live, but I live in Illinois and in the winter all that tile would be a little chilly – so I’d focus on elements to insulate and warm it up. Rugs for sure! Lots of thick towels. A chrome towel warming rack above the toilet could add some heat and also be a place to hang some nice towels. (of course if you live in a year-round-warm place this may not be relevant)
I noticed another commenter mentioned a potential lack of electric outlets. Depending on what is on the other sides of the bathroom walls you might be able to open up that side of the wall to add electrical/plumbing elements without distrubing the awesome tile. Opening up sheetrock and replastering is likely less risky than disturbing the tile.
As for color I would use a peach that would tie with the vanity space outside the bathroom. I love a tone on tone when working with retro pink.
A vanity stool with an amazing piece of fabric on top would be excellent at the vanity. One thing you may end up considering to change out is the lighting above the vanity. Flourescent tubes (if that is indeed what is in there) can be a real downer when you look in the mirror in the morning – a more natural light source would likely improve the quality of light and thus life for you, and it could be retrofitted within the same space, preserving the period look.
I LOVE this bathroom. It is so awesome, I wouldn’t worry about “decorating” it. A pink poodle shower curtain, chenille bath mat, and you’re done! Why mess with such perfection? On a side note, I have the same towel rack, toilet paper holder and soap dish in my 60′s bungalow. Awesome!!
I would treat this room as a great example of something that does not need to be “decorated.” I’ve never seen another room that was so clearly designed to thwart ornamentation — this room does not want to be decorated.
The worst that can be said about it is that it is “unrelieved,” and your towels will take care of that. The pink is as soft and flattering and unobjectionable as it could possibly be. In fact, you need MORE pink — I’d channel all my energies into obtaining a matching toilet seat.
The glass block puts me in mind of an Art Deco palette, so find some dark gray towels. If you restrain yourself from accessorizing, the default “accessories” will be the chrome of your hardware. Find a shiny silver wastebasket with a lid — something streamlined and timeless.
I completely agree with Brian T – this room is not in “need” of decorating. Keep it clean, simple and streamlined. If storage is neeed, something in chrome or white. You are lucky to have this bathroom!
I’m with the “don’t decorate it” crowd. It needs towels, naturally, and probably it is best to go with a neutral — white, black, grey. And personally I would like a rug in the space because I bet it is a bit echoey. Something fluffy, with all those hard surfaces, and matching whatever towels you choose. Beautiful room! Although I’m a “save the pink bathroom” supporter, there are many examples I’d personally find a bit hard to live with — very fussy tile designs, salmon shades creeping into the pink, etc. This seems to me a very “clean” shade of pink and a relatively neutral style overall. Lucky!
Totally agree with this.
The colours are so subtle and the space so large that to ‘fill’ it with decoration would just make it twee.
I would accentuate the soft pink with white towels and a white bath mat and leave it at that.
I love that word, “twee”.
I love this room! I think it’s almost perfect as-is, simple and clean. It’s a pretty shade of pink, not overpowering at all.
I agree with a previous poster who said to find a new toilet seat – they come in dozens and dozens of shades from Bemis, but I’ve had good luck finding vintage colors on Amazon at more affordable prices. Might take you a few tries to get the right shade, but I think it’ll make a world of difference to make the room feel fresher.
I think to break up all those big solid blocks of pink, you can bring in several different accent colors, instead of sticking with just one. I just bought this shower curtain for my blue bathroom and think it would look fantastic in your room: http://www.amazon.com/DENY-Designs-Khristian-Curtain-72-Inch/dp/B005PFT4VQ Yes, it’s expensive for a shower curtain but the quality is fantastic, very heavy fabric.
That way, you have a bright white background, and you can use little accents of turquoise, yellow, black, red, etc. for your towels, shaggy mats, artwork, and accessories. I like the previous suggestions of plants & Blenko. What about a cute little clock?
Oh, shoot. I thought the tub was separate from the shower stall – is that not the case?
yes, it’s separate…
Ok, well then maybe I would use a tension rod to hang a shower curtain over the tub anyway, just for privacy or to hold in the steam. I’m having a hard time visualizing the whole layout of the room and how that might look.
I love the simplicity of the first mood board.
Very impressive for its age – so pristine. This is a “cold” clinical approach to a bathroom. One almost expects Dr. Kildare to come in to prep for surgery. This room doesn’t need extraneous frou frou. Just some warming up with solid black, navy, grey, or green towels and rugs to contrast with the pink. Not the typical bath one sees in Pam’s old catalogs. I like the way the sink and mirror are centered in the doorway. Maybe some plants over the toilet where the light comes in from the tub window. That tub scares me, almost like you have to dive into it. Nice bathroom!
Now that dressing area is very chic with its mirrors and dropped light valance, very 40s Hollywood.
bathroom porn! i would not change a thing
Wow, this really is a dilemma considering that wall art is out of the equation. As I see it, there are two good options.
1) Keep it really simple by using white rugs and towels. Add a shower curtain that has a simple design with 2-3 colors (grey/silver, burgundy and white?). I agree with others who have said that the bathroom has an almost spa feel to it, in which case a simple design works great.
2) Glam it up by adding a matching sink skirt and shower curtain. I’m thinking something with burgundy? Add plants that have pink in them (didn’t Kate suggest that for Candice’s pink kitchen just the other day?). Match the towels and rugs to a single color in the sink skirt and shower curtain.
Oh by the way Pam, I saw that Lowe’s commercial where they sledgehammer the pink bathroom. I’d been hearing about it but never saw it on TV until recently. Anyway, I’m pleased to report that my husband was horrified by it. His comment was “Why are they smashing everything? Why would you destroy those cabinets?” And then a final and disbelieving “Wow.” A completely irresponsible and senseless ad. Lowe’s is dead to me.
That commercial has been annoying me for weeks! Nice vintage pink bath and other vintage being smashed in glee..ugh. Whether or not it is real or fake for the commercial there are those
“home improvement” shows needlessly have to use a sledgehammer & hate. Why not try to salvage and donating them to the ReStore or salvage places. My hero is Nicole of “Rehab Addict”…boy, does she salvage & re-use everything!
Caladium!
Polka Dot Plant, too.
Lots of black poodles with rhinestone collars. Pink and black all the way. I love the separate (sunken!) tub and shower aspect. The tile on the ceiling is the icing on the cake ot this bathroom, so to speak.
If you want to add some artwork and the like I would try those 3m Command hooks. They’re surprisingly effective, and I would think if you rub the tile with some alcohol first they would stick just fine. That way you’re not putting holes in the tile and it’s all completely reversible.
It’s so beautiful the way it is, very minimalistic, which I love! My bathroom is pink tile with a green border so maybe, some lime green towels and rug….but white is always perfect with pink too. I also have a ceramic flamingo toilet brush holder that adds some decor to my bath. Try finding one of those that suits your style. Otherwise, I wouldn’t clutter it up with anything.
I would get a vintage tension rod shelf thingee that goes over/behind the toilet to put colorful items on… and I love pink and gold so maybe do some gold items. Is there room for a fish tank? I love fish tanks in a bathroom!
Beautiful! I would use black and white towels in a stripe, floral, or scroll design- or possibly combined. Something like these: http://www.curtainandbathoutlet.com/black-white-shower-curtain-bath-ensemble-3.html. The largest, thickest, shaggy white bath mat on the floor. No shower curtain, just plenty of towels on the towel bar and possibly a chic wastebasket or small hamper.
I would find some towels with a bold pattern that introduces other colors if you’d like to break up the pink. I have nothing against pink, having a pink bathroom myself, but sometimes it’s fun to go in a slightly different direction. These towels – http://tinyurl.com/turquoise-paisley – would introduce a light turquoise (my fav color) that you could then use for accessories and rugs and the like. If you want to stay with just pinks, these Pottery Barn towels have a nice look (though crazy expensive) – http://tinyurl.com/pink-floral-PB.
What a sweet bathroom! I love the sunken tub! Why not just accessorize with some complimentary colored bath towels and rugs? Perhaps seafoam, or some medium green or lightish blue? And find a sweet picture of something she loves (with lotsa color) for the nail hole?
Oh man, I love it!! I would keep all of the fixtures, they all work really well in the room. As far as colors go, I think you go many different routes. I think if you wanted to go more simple, you do like others have suggested and go with white. Maybe consider black and white accents, I think that would look really nice. Also, pink and grey are great together! You could accent with greys and chrome to play of of the fixtures in the room. If you wanted to get a little more bold, you could add in some turquoise, some yellow…..honestly, I’m not sure that you could go wrong with that great of a bathroom;) I really like the previous posters suggestion of a polar bear rug, too! I hope you post pictures of the room after you decide what to do….I’d love to see them! Good Luck!
Oh, and I honestly wouldn’t recommend putting nails or screws into that beautiful tile. There are too many other good options.
What a wonderful find and that dressing table area is fantastic!
You have already received lots of great comments – but one I haven’t read is one that is sticking point for me in most bathrooms. When you are soaking in the tub (by the way, love the sunken tub!) you are either looking at the toilet or your head is next to it. I would suggest a low screen – maybe an oriental hand-painted one with pink flamingos or other birds – to place between the toilet and the tub. It will need to be something skinny as it doesn’t look like you have lots of space in between.
Have fun with it…live it with it for a good while and it will speak to you!
Great thought! Maybe a hanging screen in that spot would be an alternative as well?
A dividing screen on tension rods would work wonderfully! No damage!
Oooh, I like this idea too.
Cool pink bathroom…acoustics, too! I sing in the shower because its the only place I sound good.
I actually like Pam’s choices with the greens…reminds me of Doris Day movies…maybe, it is the one called, “With Six you get Eggroll”. I also just saw an estate sale listing time capsule house with lots of those colors, pink/lime/yellow. In the ’60s there was also a big return to Victorian style…wicker chairs/headboards, metal painted floral chandeliers, velvets…so, even if the house was built in 1916 there are vintage ’60s items that would fit in. I’ll look around.
Flower power chandelier: http://www.etsy.com/listing/123790761/flower-power-vintage-metal-pastel-flower?ref=sr_gallery_6&ga_search_query=chandelier+pink+green&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=XX&ga_vintage_rewrite=vintage+chandelier+pink+green&ga_original_query=2&ga_search_type=vintage
these are the types of chairs popular in the ’60s – I used to have a matching headboard:
http://www.etsy.com/listing/121946227/vintage-wicker-rattan-sage-green-wicker?ref=sr_gallery_8&ga_search_query=green+wicker+chair&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=XX&ga_search_type=vintage
With that great vanity space you can find lots of vintage items like these:
http://www.etsy.com/listing/120685394/very-large-oval-vintage-gold-filigree?ref=sr_gallery_15&ga_search_query=1960s+vanity+tray&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=XX&ga_search_type=vintage
I have a few of these trays (and picture frames) because I can’t resist when I see them at the thrift stores.
Yes, the vanity areas seems to be screaming for Stylebuilt accessories! The two rooms together seem very Hollywood Regency to me.
Yes, I almost named the mood board after Doris Day!
I love the silly Doris Day movies..when I think of her it is always associated with the color yellow. Her movie houses were always pastel-y colorful. Yes, Hollywood Regency is fun.
Hey Mara,
I have the exact same kind of bathroom with tiles on all walls, floors and ceiling. For hanging stuff there is one particular 3M sticky hanger that is great and really works on tile for even fairly heavy pictures. If I can get your email somehow I can send you a picture of one/the box. Also, if you go to your hardware store you ask for the smallest drill bit possible, then you can drill a tiny hole in the grout only without cracking the tile. You’ll want to use a thin picture hanging nail and then cover the area around the nail where it sticks out of the wall with a little hot glue so moisture doesn’t get it. Its very easy then to remove and doesn’t damage anything. Hope it helps.
Cullen
cullen, can you send me the pic? perhaps i can do a story. thanks!
Thank you Cullen,
I would love to see your pictures and see what you did with your bathroom! Can you send them to Pam?. I hope she will share with me or if it ok, you or Pam can send me your email….this way it can be a little more private. Thank you for the time and advise! I REALLY appreciate it!
I love ALL the ideas! There are so many great suggestions!! I am now more confused! Pam, love the chair you have chosen for the vanity area. Kate, love the framed art! You both did a WONDERFUL job! I am going to re-read all of your suggestions and soon I will have a FABOLOUS bathroom! Some may have laughed about my PINK bathroom, but soon they will see how wonderful it is! Thank you!
Great bathroom, and lots of great suggestions to choose from here. Whatever you choose to add to your space, it seems like color is the key to adding interest and depth. Rooms usually need lowlights and highlights to look their best – just like hair! Adding black and white would be classic. White and navy or gray could be a little more chic. White and vibrant blue or green probably skews a little more retro. But really any combo of colors in the cool end of the spectrum (to balance the warmth of all that pink) could work for you depending on the vibe you want and what’s going on in the rest of your house.
Hi, jumping in not to add value with suggestions, but to say I COMMEND YOU for keeping the pink bathroom. What I like about it is everything including the crazy sunken tub. And it is so pink, and the tile looks so good. I am glad you are embracing its pinkness. I think because it takes pink to a total extreme, it makes it even better. Gray is pretty trendy right now. You could throw that in, then someday swap all out to black accessories. What fun!
Cool! I’ve always wanted a bathroom I could clean with a garden hose!
Me, too! Just be sure to caulk around the toilet. I made the mistake once of thinking I could “flood” my tile floor (just a little) with water and quick-like wipe the water up. NOPE, water started pouring down into the basement via the cutout on top of which the toilet sits. duh.
I’ve always been told by my plumber to never caulk around the bottom of the toilet. Because if you have a leak, you want to see it ASAP, not seal it in and have it leak into your sub-floor.
Well, there you go!
See? So much for “spraying down the bathroom with a hose!”
Swans! The room is calling for swans! A swan shower curtain, soap dish, appliquéd towels. Wonderful room. You can do no wrong…well you can…so take not to do anything that can’t be undone.
…take CARE…that is
OOOH! another fabulous bathroom!! Lucky duck indeed! So glad that Mara will not change it! It is great like it is – I agree that a few fluffy white towels and fluffy white rugs would give it warmth. Add a retro hamper and some more chrome! Maybe a mirrored storage cube or something.. But it is funtastic just as is! I do like the plant idea though, as it would carry some green/ wood from the dressing area over. And if another color added, I would add the peach, from the other sink color.
Hi, I love the pink, and I would have big thirsty white cotton towels, and a very pretty white shower curtain, like with white seashells or some white fish on the curtain.
The pink is very clean looking, soothing, and peaceful to look at. I love it.
You can use shower curtains even though you have a shower door. It calls for shower door “window treatments”. Having all matching towels to go with the shower curtains are a must! Perhaps lots of glam by adding a brass wire plant stand and a nice plant that’s artificial. Having some brass accessories will make things sparkle!
Does the ceiling have a light?? I really pretty glass crystal chandelier hanging from a chain will give it bling!
I’m glad Mara doesn’t plan to do any major remodeling, i.e, “tearing out.” The bathroom is really beautiful, and the dressing vanity is the bomb. I never thought I’d say this (and didn’t think it was actually possible), but the bathroom is a little too-pink. I mean, it’s like looking at one monochromatic wall. Obviously, Pam, Kate, and most of the readers are correct in suggesting that some complementary color(s) needs to be introduced.
A couple of weeks back, this site featured a house (in Portland, I believe), which had a pink bathroom trimmed in turquoise. It was absolutely awesome! I had not thought of those colors together, but they really do work well. When I think of MCM pink bathrooms, I usually think of black or burgundy trim, but the turquoise really makes the pink pop. Without tearing out too-much tile, it would be possible to remove a row (or more) of pink tiles & replace them with colored tiles. You can do the same with a border around the perimeter of the floor. Otherwise, you’re limited to bringing in color by way of accessories. And you want a throw rug or 2 on the cold, hard floor, anyway. I would also get rid of the soft toilet seat. Maybe that would be an opportunity to put some color there.
We will all await the “after” pictures of what you decided to do.
Mara, I LOVE your bathroom! I agree with Kate and the white accents, you could always change out after a bit with a different color if you wanted! I had that mirror and light in both of my bathrooms and kept the mirror, but removed the light and had installed a chrome 3 light fixture I picked up at Home Depot. It is the square lights and I think it looks great. We had an electrician put in a switch on the wall to operate the light. Good Luck!
I think this bathroom needs fabric. I’m channeling my “Sarah Richardson” here. She says you need cream to break up bright colors, and although this bathroom does not have bright colors, I think cream would be nice. I’d do a non-cute pattern flamingo fabric.
http://beautifulfabric.com/asccustompages/products.asp?fav=0&fpage=1&page=1&categoryID=59&productID=7102&pStart=0&recNum=3
Or an Audubon print, also none cute, with a black frame over the toilet.
http://www.art.com/products/p10087681-sa-i722167/american-flamingo.htm
CB