Get That Rustic Bathroom Look

If you’re looking to redecorate or remodel your bathroom and want to steer away from that grand Tuscan look or something contemporary, consider a primitive country decor. This may work especially well if you prefer your bathroom be a simple, rustic sanctuary with a touch of warmth so it’s both austere and welcoming.

Rustic Hardware

If you want to add primitive accents to your bathroom without completely redesigning, incorporate some rustic-looking hardware. Forego shiny chrome or porcelain for unpolished metals. Consider using unfinished wood hardware for things like cabinets and closets. This softens up the metal and adds a natural country feel. Also, instead of covering up that plumbing, expose some of the piping near the bathtub or under the sink.

Primitive Heating

If you’re doing a complete bathroom remodel and want to add a decoration that’s primitive and also captures the warmth of country decor, consider a fireplace, stove or hearth. They warm the room for a winter bath, and create a simple, welcoming focal point so you minimalise the rest of the decor. Stick with natural looking material like stone, brick or iron. If your bathroom’s especially large or has tall ceilings, fill the space above with an unfinished wood mantel and some old apothecary bottles or other rustic knick-knacks.

Wood and Porcelain

For a twist on the porcelain clawfoot tub, find one with a broad, rectangular lip around the top perimeter. It sharpens the tub’s curves a bit to give you a more austere look. Keep the taps simple and small. Use a sink with a glass or metal bowl so it resembles a small wash basin or find an old porcelain wash basin and water container in a simple bone colour. A vanity unit with natural-finish wooden slats underneath the basin sink adds a bit more country while providing contrast with the metal, porcelain or glass basin.

Odds and Ends

Don’t forget those small finishing touches. A shaggy, woven rug in a modest material warms feet on a cold floor and softens austere lines and textures primitive decor brings with it. A primitive country bathroom likely has wood flooring in a dark or mid-tone rather than porcelain tile or polished travertine. For an even more rustic look, the wood may have hand scrapping or an uneven finish. Add a narrow wooden ladder against the wall, an old metal plate collection clustered above the tub or wooden bathtub tray for accent pieces.