In their 1928 Colonial Revival home, a homeowner and their boyfriend have just wrapped up the construction phase of a long-awaited bathroom renovation. Shared with the r/centuryhomes community, their design pays tribute to the 1920s through an Art Deco lens—complete with a striking 1935 cast iron tub weighing in at 600 pounds. The updated space mixes period-appropriate materials with modern utility, while a surprise discovery—the home’s original laundry chute—adds a touch of historic charm to their labor-intensive project.

A Race Against Water Damage

The project began not by choice but by crisis: a leaking window and tub caused the ceiling below to buckle, forcing an urgent renovation of the home’s only shower. With just two weeks to plan and no access to bathing facilities, the couple relied on family homes while fast-tracking the design. Contractors handled the build, but the couple took charge of sourcing materials, crisscrossing New York and New Jersey on weekends to gather tiles, fixtures, and more.

The result features a beautifully laid herringbone tile pattern—slightly imperfect but full of character—mirroring the couple’s relief at having a functioning bathroom again.

Finding Beauty in Imperfection

Though the faucet is still on backorder and the final coat of paint is pending, the bulk of the work is done. The couple embraces the process and its quirks—offset tiles, tight timelines, and all—as part of the home’s ongoing story. The 1935 cast iron tub, sleek and stately, anchors the room in Art Deco elegance, while the laundry chute’s rediscovery connects them directly to the home’s original design. These imperfections and discoveries don’t detract—they enrich the space with authenticity.

A Restoration Fueled by Grit and Love

From hunting down fixtures to guiding the renovation while juggling weekday schedules, the couple’s commitment shines through. Their choices, from tile patterns to tub fittings, reflect a balance between historical reverence and livable design. The bathroom now feels both timeless and personal—a nod to the 1920s with the functionality of today.

Honoring the Past, One Room at a Time

This bathroom revamp reminds century-home lovers that urgency doesn’t cancel authenticity. With every salvaged feature and every decision made under pressure, the couple has crafted a space that respects their home’s past while meeting present needs.

As they finish the last details, they’ve already brought new life to a nearly century-old room—ready to serve another hundred years with grace and grit.