A Timeless Boutique Bathroom with Vintage Charm

Melly from @mellyreidhome

Reworked from an awkward layout that never quite flowed, this bathroom is proof of what considered planning can do. Built around a freestanding Roper Rhodes bath and Fitz Claret Honed marble, the space Melly has created now balances rich plum panelling, brass detailing and timeless, vintage-inspired charm with the calm of a boutique spa - and, most strikingly, feels far larger than before.

Before

After

The inspiration

My brief was to create a bathroom that felt timeless and full of character, with a traditional, vintage-inspired aesthetic softened by the calm, restorative atmosphere of a boutique spa. I wanted it to feel warm and layered, with rich colours, classic detailing and luxurious finishes that made it a space to truly unwind in.

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What was the main challenge with your old bathroom?

"The biggest challenge was reworking the layout to accommodate both a separate bath and shower while improving the overall flow of the room. In the original layout, the toilet was positioned so that you were sitting with your back to the door, which never felt particularly comfortable or well considered. I wanted the space to feel more intentional, with a layout that offered greater privacy, improved functionality and a stronger sense of balance. Reconfiguring the room allowed us to achieve all of that while making much better use of the available space."

What inspired your design choices?

"Every design decision stemmed from two key pieces that set the direction for the entire room. The first was the Widcombe freestanding bath, which I’d had my eye on for over a year and knew I wanted to build the space around. The second was the Fitz Claret Honed marble tile from Mandarin Stone. Together, they established the palette and aesthetic, inspiring the rich plum panelling, brass fittings and traditional detailing that tie the whole room together."

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What makes the biggest difference in your new bathroom?

"Without question, it’s the layout. Reconfiguring the space has completely transformed how the room feels. It now feels significantly larger, despite the addition of both a freestanding bath and a separate shower. Every area has a purpose, the flow is much more intuitive, and the room feels both functional and luxurious."

"I also love how the design balances period charm with modern practicality. It feels sympathetic to the character of the house while offering all the comforts of a contemporary bathroom, making it a space that’s as beautiful as it is enjoyable to use."