27 Ways to Enhance Your Cottage Style Bathroom

1. Embrace Soft, Muted Colors

Cottage-style bathrooms are known for their soft, serene color palettes. Think light shades of pastel blues, greens, and creams, or even gentle blushes and soft grays. These calming hues give the bathroom an airy, fresh feel while still evoking that cozy charm. You can paint your walls, cabinets, or even the ceiling in one of these hues to create a serene atmosphere.

2. Install Shiplap Walls

Shiplap is a classic element in cottage-style homes, and it’s perfect for giving your bathroom that rustic yet refined look. Whether you cover an entire wall or just create an accent wall behind the sink or bathtub, shiplap instantly adds texture and character. You can leave it raw and natural for a rustic vibe or paint it white for a cleaner, lighter look.

3. Add a Vintage-Style Pedestal Sink

A pedestal sink is a great way to bring a touch of old-world charm into your bathroom. These sinks are often more compact and can open up space in smaller bathrooms. Plus, the classic design feels timeless and elegant, fitting perfectly with the cozy, vintage appeal of cottage style.

4. Opt for a Freestanding Bathtub

There’s something so relaxing and luxurious about a freestanding bathtub, and it’s a must-have in any cottage-style bathroom. Whether you choose a clawfoot tub or a more modern freestanding design, a tub like this creates a focal point in the room and gives it a touch of sophistication.

5. Install a Rustic Vanity

When it comes to vanities, cottage style loves a vintage, rustic look. Look for wooden vanities with weathered or distressed finishes. You could even repurpose an old piece of furniture, like a vintage chest of drawers, and turn it into your bathroom vanity. The natural wood will add warmth and depth to the room.

6. Incorporate Floral Patterns

Cottage-style bathrooms often feature charming floral prints, whether in wallpaper, curtains, or linens. Soft, delicate florals—especially vintage-style prints—help create a welcoming, feminine feel. Choose a floral wallpaper for an accent wall, or go for floral shower curtains and towels for a simple update.

7. Use Woven Baskets for Storage

A key element in cottage design is the use of natural materials, and woven baskets are perfect for adding both storage and style. Use them to store towels, toiletries, or cleaning supplies. They add texture to your space while helping you stay organized and tidy.

8. Install a Shabby Chic Mirror

A mirror is both functional and decorative in any bathroom. For a cottage-style touch, choose a mirror with a distressed wooden frame or a vintage-inspired design. This will help bring an antique feel to your bathroom, enhancing the cozy, lived-in charm.

9. Go for Vintage Lighting Fixtures

Cottage-style lighting is all about charm and simplicity. Look for vintage-style light fixtures, like an antique-inspired chandelier or a charming wall sconce. You can also use brass or wrought iron fixtures for a touch of elegance. Soft, warm lighting will add to the inviting atmosphere.

10. Add Patterned Tile Floors

Subtle, patterned tiles can elevate your bathroom to cottage perfection. Opt for tiles with a vintage or farmhouse pattern, like hexagons or classic checkerboard. Whether in soft pastels or neutrals, patterned tiles will add character and charm to the space.

11. Choose Soft, Luxurious Towels

Your bathroom needs plush, comfortable towels to truly feel cozy. Invest in high-quality, soft towels in neutral tones or light pastels. You can even fold them neatly into a basket or display them on a towel rack to create a spa-like atmosphere in your cottage bathroom.

12. Incorporate Antique Accessories

Accessories play a big role in creating the cottage-style look. Look for antique pieces like vintage perfume bottles, antique soap dishes, or old-fashioned apothecary jars. These charming additions will bring character and personality to your space.

13. Hang Lace Curtains

Lace curtains add a delicate, feminine touch to any cottage-style bathroom. They let in plenty of natural light while still providing some privacy. Choose lace curtains for your windows, or even hang them around a clawfoot tub for a romantic, vintage-inspired vibe.

14. Go for a Soft, Vintage-Style Shower Curtain

A shower curtain in soft fabric, like linen or cotton, can enhance the peaceful atmosphere of your bathroom. Choose a shower curtain with a floral print, soft stripes, or even a simple ruffled design for an added cottage feel.

15. Create a Cozy Bath Tray

A bath tray across your freestanding tub adds both style and functionality. You can use it to hold candles, a glass of wine, a book, or your favorite bath salts. Opt for a rustic wooden tray to stay true to that cottage vibe, or DIY one using reclaimed wood for an extra personal touch.

16. Use Vintage-Style Faucets

Faucets can make a big difference in the overall look of your bathroom. Choose vintage-inspired faucets, like those with cross handles or an antique brass finish. These will add a touch of elegance and complement the cottage aesthetic.

17. Include a Cozy Rug

A cozy rug in soft hues or floral prints can really tie your cottage-style bathroom together. Opt for a vintage-inspired woven rug or a fluffy, plush option to give your feet a soft landing as you step out of the tub or shower. It also adds color and texture to the room.

18. Hang a Vintage Towel Rack

A vintage-style towel rack can be both functional and stylish. Look for a wall-mounted rack with an antique finish or a distressed wooden towel ladder for that added cottage charm. You can hang your bath towels and hand towels neatly while also making a statement.

19. Add a Little Greenery

Houseplants are a great way to breathe life into any room, and they’re especially lovely in a cottage-style bathroom. Add some hanging plants, succulents, or ferns to create a fresh, natural atmosphere. The green tones will bring warmth and color to the space.

20. Choose Soft, Flowing Fabrics for Window Treatments

Window treatments are essential for both privacy and style in a bathroom. For a cottage feel, go for soft, flowing curtains made from lightweight fabric like linen or cotton. White or soft pastel shades work well, but you could also go for a subtle pattern like gingham or floral to add a little extra charm.

21. Install a Built-In Linen Closet

If you have the space, installing a built-in linen closet in your bathroom will make it feel more functional and charming. A built-in closet will keep towels, linens, and toiletries neatly organized while adding a vintage touch. Opt for a cabinet with glass doors for a more open, airy feel.

22. Choose Classic White Fixtures

White fixtures—like your toilet, sink, and bathtub—are a staple of cottage-style bathrooms. They give your bathroom a fresh, timeless feel. Plus, white fixtures can easily be paired with soft pastels, vintage accents, and natural materials for a cohesive, peaceful look.

23. Repurpose Vintage Furniture

Look for antique furniture pieces that can be repurposed in your bathroom. For example, an old wooden dresser could serve as a unique vanity or a vintage chest of drawers could be used as extra storage. These one-of-a-kind pieces will add personality and character to your space.

24. Use Framed Artwork

Framed artwork with botanical prints, vintage postcards, or soft landscape paintings can help create a tranquil, countryside feel. Hang a few pieces of art above the vanity or towel rack to bring in an extra dose of charm.

25. Add a Vintage-Style Toilet Paper Holder

While it may seem like a small detail, a vintage-style toilet paper holder can really enhance the overall aesthetic of your bathroom. Look for a holder with a distressed metal or wooden finish, or go for a classic brass design to bring in that cottage touch.

26. Install a Rustic Shower Rod

For an added cottage touch in the shower area, install a rustic shower rod. A wrought iron or weathered wooden shower rod can add a vintage flair to your bathroom. Pair it with soft curtains for a cozy, vintage feel that ties everything together.

27. Create a Cozy Reading Nook (If Space Allows)

If you have the space, add a small reading nook to your bathroom. A comfy chair, a small side table with a stack of books, and a cozy blanket will transform your bathroom into the ultimate retreat. This is the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a good book in your peaceful cottage oasis.