While there are only a very few good reproductions of post-war bathroom fixtures (the only ones I can think of are $$$ Waterworks and Lefroy Brooks, and a few pieces from Sign of the Crab), there are a goodly number of bathrooms suites for pre-war homes. What I really like about this Duravit “1930” series is that it comes complete with the tub (albeit built-in, not freestanding) as well either wall-hung (!) or freestanding toilets, a pedestal sink in three sizes, a countertop sink and even a corner sink. Ms. Matchy Matchy likes having all these choices. Well, if she were ever to renovate a 1930s bathroom, that is. I would like that, actually. I would use pistachio green or maybe pink subways tiles (if they exist) with a fabulous liner tile and black bullnose, it would be so much fun..
Regarding this 1930 series, Duravit says that the octagon motif is a reference to the Bauhaus period and its “affinity for mathematics”:
Founded by Walter Gropius in 1919, the Bauhaus school aimed to create unity among the arts, sciences, knowledge of materials and technology. Its impact on architecture and art is still felt today. The Bauhaus affinity for architecture and mathematics is embodied in the octagonal footprint of the sanitary ceramics. The interesting aspect of the octagon comes to light in a variety of lengths and widths. It determines the design of the washbasin, toilet, bidet and accessories. In addition to the washbasin in widths 23 5/8”, 27 9/16” and 31 ½” with matching pedestals, there is also a built-in washbasin with a width of 22 7/8” for installation in practical surrounds. As an alternative to the 19 11/16”-wide handrinse basin, a corner handrinse basin is also offered as a solution for small spaces. A bidet and toilet are available in freestanding and wall-mounted versions featuring the collection’s signature octagonal body and lid. Even the ceramic shelf is octagonal and the fastening of the towel holder has eight corners. This attention to detail is continued through to the very last detail of the 1930 Series making the “octagon” a real bathroom classic.
Note: There also are 1930s accessories — towel bars and the like. Honestly, I am not crazy about them. I think they look unwieldy. I’d go with something chrome instead, or a simpler porcelain shape..
we used the Logan square pedestal sink by Gerber – that was quite inexpensive (around $350) and gave that same squared-off look. There’s toilets in the series too (only floor mounts), but no tubs…
http://www.gerberonline.com/search.aspx?searchParam=logan square
kathy
Thanks, Kathy, I would love to do more on 40s and pre-war… it’s on the list!
PLEASE do Pam. Your passion on this and talent for research could be a boon to those of us living in even older homes.
I agree! It would be fabulous to see you delve more into the 30’s and 40’s for those of us with pre-war homes!
In our bathroom (1939) we left the beautiful cast iron tub, but weren’t able to put in a pedestal sink (my dream!) because of plumbing issues. So we installed a new “euro-style” vanity and sink, which has a bit of the feel of a pedestal but with some cabinet space underneath and more space around the sink itself. It suits our shabby-chic/vintage-y mish-mosh bathroom pretty well, and was affordable to boot.
Look at that….a tub that looks like it will actually accommodate someone over 5′ tall. I want!!
Cheviot makes some nice pedestal sinks that may work for pre and post war. We have the Classic model in both of our bathrooms. (One with pink tile) Here is the link; http://www.cheviotproducts.com/pages/products/index.php?category=9
Pam you are a lifesaver. I have to replace the original toilet from my craftsman style home and have been lost looking for something that doesn’t scream “early 2000 track housing suburban contemporary remodel”… Thank you sooo much! I love your site.
Thank you, joie — and welcome to our fun little world!
I need a blue toilet with a back spud 12inch center round. Asap
Avis
Avis, we do not sell anything here. See our category Bathroom Help / Toilets. There is just one place left now to buy these – our story is in the first feature box.