I Tapped Into This Vintage Aesthetic to Transform My Small Bathroom (It’s Beloved by Designers!)

A few months ago I moved into a new apartment in Los Angeles, California. I love everything about it — except for the tiny guest bathroom. Not only is it quite small, but it’s also pretty sterile. So I’ve been on the hunt for low-lift, renter-friendly ways to add some character to the space; and finally on a recent Instagram scroll, I came across a photo of a bathroom that stopped me in my tracks. 

I’m calling it the “apothecary aesthetic,” and I’m totally obsessed!

As the name implies, the apothecary aesthetic is a vintage-inspired design style that pays homage to old-fashioned apothecary stores (think: jewel tones paired with antique wooden drawers and shelves, heavy amber-hued glass accessories, vintage jars for toiletries, oversized perfume bottles, antique metal canisters, and thick-cut crystal trays). It should feel exactly like stepping into an old-timey drugstore. 

While you might think darker colors, small jars, and wooden furniture would make a small space like a bathroom feel a bit cluttered and cramped, that’s actually not the case. I think it’s a perfect way to make a small space stand out, and to add character to a bathroom in a way that’s both chic and functional — and the experts agree. 

According to interior designers and stylists, leaning into a distinct style such as this one can make a tiny bathroom feel like a high-end spa from a bygone era. Architect Sharon D’mello, founder of Studio Nola, explains, “The apothecary aesthetic introduces depth, tactility, and character into small baths. This instantly elevates an ordinary space into something that feels almost sacred: a soft luxury.”

The key to the look? Those whimsical vintage accents and antique pieces that can do double-duty as storage. “A compact bathroom can look sterile and uninviting,” adds Libby Fehsenfeld, home staging consultant at Tralala Interiors. “Jewel-toned glass, metallic finishes, and nature-inspired accents will bring warmth and old-world charm to your bathroom.” You’ll want to visit a few thrift stores for those authentic apothecary accents — but in the meantime, check out our favorite vintage-inspired accents below!