The Bathroom Trend You'll See Popping Up In 2026 That's Perfect For Antique Lovers

Design trends may change constantly, but every so often, they happen to revive a style some homeowners always kept around, and suddenly it's seen in a whole new light. These revivals have been happening frequently in recent years, whether it's vintage kitchen accessories that are making a comeback or retro aesthetics that are rising in popularity once again. Bathrooms, in particular, are one space where more homeowners are incorporating different trends from the past in everything from lighting to materials and fixtures. You don't need to have a vintage bathroom to enjoy this shift, but if you've always been drawn to older styles, it might be a good time to consider working them into your bathroom design. There's one trend that's bound to take over in the new year, which could offer the perfect opportunity to embrace your love for antiques — furniture-style vanities.

In an interview with MarthaStewart.com, interior designer Mikel Welch noted this growing trend for bathroom vanities, sharing that brands "are leaning into pieces that feel collected rather than built-in, which helps the bathroom read as a personal space." It's not just aesthetics that this trend appeals to; it also represents a greater shift towards creating interiors with longevity and meaning in the design. A vanity that feels like real furniture can age with you, pick up patina, and become part of your home's story. There are endless ways you can interpret this trend, all of which might give you an excuse to start hunting through the resale market. If you want to get ahead of the curve, consider refreshing your vanity with this rising style.

Just because your vanity furniture is freestanding doesn't mean it will work for this trend. The key is to aim for vanities that aren't built-in, yet have enough character and design appeal that they could work outside the bathroom as well. Rather than designs that are ultra-sleek and modern, antique styles with unique details or vintage characteristics will feel more like furniture and less like a bathroom station. In order to choose the perfect bathroom vanity, it's important to consider function, but style is also a big aspect. Many vanities work as a focal point in the bathroom, and the design you choose can set the tone for the entire room, with vintage styles offering some character-rich benefits. Think about the kind of mood you want that "character" to bring in. A dark, carved piece can make a small bathroom feel moody, whereas a lighter, painted cabinet with ornate legs might read more airy and romantic.

Interior designer Shandon Barrett recently discussed the new priorities of bathroom design with Realtor.com, noting how clients are shifting away from purely durable, modern styles, saying: "They want spaces that feel lived in, loved, and personal. Vintage bathrooms naturally bring a sense of story." While minimalist bathroom vanities with clean, crisp, and functional designs have been a standard choice in recent years, aiming for pieces that look like stylish furniture can contribute more to the overall personality of your space. Bathrooms do need to feel practical, but this new trend gives them the chance to expand their potential beyond the basic necessities and become a strong element that reflects your style, too.

Again, it's best to veer away from built-in designs if you want your vanity to feel like a curated, thoughtful piece of furniture. As a plus, a freestanding one will give your bathroom more room to breathe for a spacious look. There are a few ways a freestanding vanity can distinguish itself as a piece of furniture, starting with the style of storage. You can also play with the silhouette itself. Look for something with visible legs, open shelving, or a unique shape at the base so it clearly reads as furniture rather than a basic bathroom feature. Typical bathroom vanities often feature sleek, simple cabinet doors with stainless steel hardware. To get a more intentional look, the elements of your storage could offer greater visual impact — whether that's with antique handles and a distressed finish for a vintage style, or details like fluted wood or textured webbing on cabinets that mimic a mid-century modern sideboard.

If you're aiming for a retro bathroom aesthetic, consider adding a splash of pink, the vintage bathroom vanity color that's having a comeback moment. For a truly one-of-a-kind design, you can DIY a vanity from an antique cabinet — either opting for a sink that can simply sit atop your furniture or carving out space to integrate a sink and plumbing fixtures. Whether you're purchasing a new vanity or repurposing an antique piece, remember to picture your piece somewhere outside of the bathroom first — the styles that have this flexible look will help you unlock this trend.