If You Want to Design a Bathroom That Doesn’t Look Like a Bathroom, Take Notes From Heidi Caillier – Her Recent Space Is Cozy, Inviting, and Perfectly Layered

Spa-like bathrooms might be an emerging trend for 2026, but interior designer Heidi Caillier is taking no notice, instead sticking to her renowned style for vintage spaces and layered, lived-in designs.

And her latest bathroom project is a testament to her beloved approach. It feels less like a functional room, and more like a cozy space you want to spend time in – which is exactly why this vintage-style bathroom works so well.

From the botanical wallpaper to the terracotta floor tiles and washstand vanity, there's much to love about this space, with numerous elements working together to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. And it's easier to recreate than you might expect.

There's naturally a coldness to bathroom materials. Tiles on the floors and walls, sinks and tubs made from acrylic-coated steel, and bathroom hardware in varying metallic tones – it can all begin to feel very sleek and uninviting.

But whenever Heidi Caillier is in charge of the design, the bathroom feels quite the opposite, instead embracing warm hues, tactile materials, and a layered approach to decor that feels miles away from the utilitarian spaces we are so used to.

And this bathroom is no different. Her caption sums it up perfectly; it's 'a space you never want to leave.' So many elements and features make this space feel so special – here's how she created the look.

1. The Wallpaper and Tiles

The botanical bathroom wallpaper on the upper half of the walls brings in texture and interest, while the red tiles on the lower half bring warmth and contrast, as well as the functional element required around the bath and vanity.

And it's gone down a treat with her followers, with one follower commenting, 'The way you can play with color and pattern is always so inspiring,' and another saying, 'The mix of wallpaper, bold tiles, and textures feels so rich yet calm.'

To infuse more warmth and texture into the room, she's chosen terracotta floor tiles – an unexpected yet hugely impactful addition. It really grounds the room while allowing those red wall tiles to have their moment. It brings a richness to the design that just can't be achieved with any other material.

It's a combination that requires a quiet confidence, knowing that these bold, contrasting colors and materials can blend seamlessly to create that lived-in, vintage-inspired aesthetic. And Heidi has nailed the look.

2. The Tub and Washstand

The freestanding bathtub beneath the window is perhaps the only feature in the space that screams bathroom, yet the curved form and decorative brass faucet add a sense of elegance and luxury that pulls you in.

To add to the vintage feel, Heidi has introduced a traditional washstand in place of a bathroom vanity, which might take away some storage, but it's a feature that adds to the lived-in, cozy feel of the room. It also gives the illusion of greater space thanks to the uninterrupted flow of floor tiles. The curved edge also softens what can often be a hard, angular feature. It's these small details that make such a difference.

3. The Lighting and Decor

And finally, the bathroom lighting and the small decorative details further cement that cozy, vintage look. The Orrefors Amber Glass Chandelier on the ceiling adds a soft yet functional glow, while the wall lights add task lighting around the vanity mirrors. The cafe curtains add privacy as well as a new texture, while the wooden bath stool adds an organic material, as well as a place for decor.

This space is a lesson in how to design a cozy, inviting bathroom that looks less like a utilitarian space and more like a vintage-inspired retreat where you can truly relax and unwind. It proves that with the right approach, your bathroom can become the coziest room in your home. I'm certainly taking notes.

Get the Look

The attention to detail here is second to none, and the unexpected mix of colors, materials, and finishes proves that with the right design confidence, you can create a bathroom that's layered, rich, and expertly personalized. And if you were unsure whether you should use vintage pieces in a bathroom, this is your answer.