Mid-Century Modern Bathroom Design Inspiration

The organic curve movement of the 1950s brought softness to bathroom design, influenced by Scandinavian designers Alvar Aalto and Eero Saarinen. Curved vanity edges and, as seen here, shower screens became popular features in mid-century homes. In modern bathrooms, these shapes aren't just aesthetic choices — they improve flow in smaller spaces and contrast nicely against square and rectangular tiles.

3. Say yes to green

Mid-century designers couldn’t get enough of green. Manufacturers like American Standard released entire bathroom collections — including toilets! — that came in shades like sage green and forest green. They complemented the period's love of indoor-outdoor connection and went well with the warm woods you’d also see in that era. This bathroom is a fresh take on that vibe. Our forest green Coogee Antique Forest Green Kit Kat Mosaic Tile have been used on the walls and makes a great background for a simple floating timber vanity.

4. Balance with neutrals

Mid-century bathrooms were known for having lots of colour and patterns that could compete for attention. In mid-century modern bathrooms, this colour is balanced with neutrals. Nowadays, as you’ve likely noticed, white toilets, basins and bathtubs are more usual. But like the bathroom above, you can also opt for a neutral base with white or grey tiles and then bring in those signature mid-century colours through textiles and accessories.

5. Mix and match your tiles

Mid-century bathrooms often featured thoughtful combinations of tile sizes and shapes to define different zones. Small mosaics typically covered curved walls and shower recesses, while larger format tiles created clean lines on straight walls. We love how this bathroom embodies so many mid-century elements — you’ve got tile contrast (olive green squares with our Brunswick Kit Kat Matte White Tile and Stirling White Terrazzo Look Tile), a curved wall and medium-tone wood accessories.

6. Put in an arched mirror

Arch mirrors were a defining feature of mid-century bathroom design, showing up in everything from suburban homes to hotel bathrooms. The shape stays true to mid-century's love of simple curves. In this bathroom, the Alura Arch Mirror softens the kit kat tiles on the wall. Not a fan of timber? Our mirror collection also has metal frame and frameless options.

7. Choose chrome tapware

Chrome runs through all of mid-century design. You'll spot it on the famous Wassily Chair and Eames dining chairs. In bathrooms, designers used it everywhere — tapware, robe hooks and towel rails. In this bathroom, chrome tapware pops against white tiles and wood, showing how the material creates contrast without dominating the space.

8. Install mid-century sconces

Wall sconces were a key feature in mid-century design. Globe lights in particular showed up everywhere in mid-century spaces, from the bathroom to the bedroom. Their simple spherical shape fits perfectly with the era's space-age influences. In this bathroom, two white globe sconces are positioned to light the vanity area and add an interesting element of design.

Plan your mid-century bathroom renovation

Mid-century bathrooms have stood the test of time because they put practicality first. The thoughtful details work in bathrooms of any size, while modern materials and fittings bring these classic spaces up to date. 

Need help planning your mid-century modern bathroom? Take a look at our mid-century modern tiles or book a design appointment. If you’re taking this style outside of the bathroom, see our blog on mid-century modern kitchen inspiration.