Last Updated on February 3, 2025 by lindseymahoney
Updating a mid-century bathroom doesn’t have to mean a full renovation! With a little creativity and a modest budget, you can refresh your retro space while keeping its original charm intact. If you love the character of your retro bathroom but want to give it a modern twist, these 15 affordable ideas will help you transform the space without the mess or expense of a major renovation!

Table of Contents
- Retro Bathroom Ideas and Affordable Updates
- 1 | Add Vintage-Inspired Wallpaper
- 2 | Install Tile with Period a Mid-Century Pattern
- 3 | Upgrade the Vanity Hardware
- 4 | Refresh the Walls with Paint
- 5 | Paint the Vanity
- 6 | Swap Out the Mirror
- 7 | Update the Light Fixtures
- 8 | Replace the Faucet
- 9 | Regrout or Paint the Tiles
- 10 | Accessorize with Mid-Century Accents
- 11 | Install Open Shelving
- 12 | Update the Shower Curtain
- 13 | Frame the Bathroom Mirror
- 14 | Replace or Refresh the Towel Bars
- 15 | Layer in Plants and Textiles
- 16 | Upgrade the Toilet Seat & Lid
- More Content You Will Love
Retro Bathroom Ideas and Affordable Updates
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1 | Add Vintage-Inspired Wallpaper

Embrace the retro charm by adding playful, mid-century-style wallpaper to an accent wall. I added this beautiful wallpaper from Rifle Paper Co. and love how playful and fun it is in the kids bathroom.
2 | Install Tile with Period a Mid-Century Pattern

If you have to install tile in a retro bathroom, consider using period appropriate tile and pattern for the space. For our retro bathroom makeover, I chose a white porcelain tile in the shape of a square, which was quite popular in the 1950s and 1960s. For the pattern, I chose the classic off-set installation of the tiles and it looks perfect with the vintage blue bathtub.
3 | Upgrade the Vanity Hardware

Swap out old knobs and pulls for sleek or vintage-inspired hardware to instantly refresh your vanity.
4 | Refresh the Walls with Paint

A fresh coat of paint can modernize the space while still complementing retro features. Try soft neutrals or a fun vintage-inspired color.
5 | Paint the Vanity

Give your original vanity a new look with a bold paint color or classic white for a clean, updated feel.
RELATED POST: Awesome 1960s Bathroom Vanity Makeover | DIY
6 | Swap Out the Mirror

Replace a dated medicine cabinet with a stylish framed mirror for a fresh, modern touch.
7 | Update the Light Fixtures

Swap outdated lighting for modern or vintage-inspired sconces that complement your bathroom’s style.
8 | Replace the Faucet

A new faucet in brass, matte black, or chrome can give your sink an instant facelift.
9 | Regrout or Paint the Tiles

If the original tile is in good condition, freshen up the grout or use tile paint to update the color.
10 | Accessorize with Mid-Century Accents

Incorporate vintage decor, such as retro soap dishes, artwork, or a geometric bath mat.
11 | Install Open Shelving
Floating shelves provide storage while keeping a light, airy feel in a small bathroom.
12 | Update the Shower Curtain

A fun, bold shower curtain can make a big statement without breaking the budget.
13 | Frame the Bathroom Mirror

If you have a plain builder-grade mirror, adding a DIY frame can make it look custom.
14 | Replace or Refresh the Towel Bars

Swap out old towel bars with modern or retro-inspired ones, or spray-paint existing ones for a fresh look.
15 | Layer in Plants and Textiles

Add warmth and personality with fresh greenery, plush towels, and a stylish rug to complete the look.
16 | Upgrade the Toilet Seat & Lid
A new toilet seat is an inexpensive fix that can make an old toilet look newer.
These easy and affordable retro bathroom ideas will bring your space into the modern era while keeping its vintage charm. What ideas do you have for updating 1950s bathroom design? Share in the comments below!