Clawfoot tubs bring undeniable charm to a bathroom, but if not styled thoughtfully, they can lean a bit too vintage—or worse, outdated. The key is to strike a balance between honoring their classic appeal and surrounding them with updated, fresh elements. Whether your aesthetic leans modern, rustic, or eclectic, there are smart ways to make a clawfoot tub feel intentional and stylish in today’s interiors. Here are nine ideas to help it shine in a contemporary way.

1. Paint the Exterior

A fresh coat of paint on the tub’s exterior is a subtle yet powerful way to update its look. Instead of sticking to the traditional white, try rich, modern hues like matte black, forest green, or even navy blue. These colors can create a dramatic focal point, especially when paired with sleek, neutral walls or bold tiles. Painting the tub adds personality without compromising its classic silhouette, helping it blend effortlessly into contemporary bathroom designs.

2. Surround It with Modern Fixtures

Mixing old and new is key to keeping a clawfoot tub from feeling too vintage. Add sleek, streamlined fixtures—think brushed nickel, matte black, or brass—to modernize the space around the tub. A minimalist faucet or floor-mounted filler instantly elevates the look. The contrast between the tub’s curves and the clean lines of updated hardware strikes a perfect visual balance that feels fresh, intentional, and stylishly timeless.

3. Use Bold and Graphic Tile

To keep things current, ground your clawfoot tub with bold tile choices. Consider graphic black-and-white patterns, geometric designs, or even zellige tiles with a handmade feel. These details lend an artsy edge and contrast nicely against the traditional curves of the tub. It’s a great way to inject personality into your bathroom while ensuring your space looks fresh, layered, and thoughtfully designed—not stuck in another era.

4. Add a Contemporary Light Fixture

Lighting has a huge impact on how modern or dated a bathroom feels. Swap out old sconces or basic overheads for a sculptural pendant or sleek chandelier. Go for something that makes a statement—whether it’s a globe-style light or a brass fixture with sharp, contemporary lines. The right lighting draws attention upward, frames the tub beautifully, and creates an atmosphere that feels updated, inviting, and chic.

5. Keep the Palette Minimal

While clawfoot tubs are often associated with ornate settings, a restrained color palette can shift the vibe instantly. Stick to whites, soft grays, or warm beiges, and limit visual clutter. This pared-down approach puts the focus on shape and material, allowing the tub’s silhouette to shine without overwhelming the space. It also lets you play with textures—like wood or stone—for added depth without relying on color.

6. Choose Sleek Storage Solutions

Avoid ornate vanities or busy cabinetry that compete with the elegance of a clawfoot tub. Instead, opt for floating shelves, wall-mounted units, or simple open storage in natural materials. Keeping the storage streamlined lets the tub breathe visually while contributing to a more contemporary feel. Clean lines and clutter-free zones help prevent the space from tipping into overly traditional or fussy territory.

7. Incorporate Greenery

Plants bring softness and a natural touch that modernizes any space. Add a tall leafy plant in a clean pot or drape trailing greenery from a high shelf. The organic lines of foliage complement the tub’s curves while helping the room feel lived-in and fresh. Plus, greenery introduces color and texture without overwhelming the palette—making it an easy, affordable way to modernize the room’s overall energy.

8. Use Unexpected Art

Swap out vintage florals or ornate frames for modern or abstract art. Hanging a large-scale piece near the tub instantly shifts the visual tone, adding interest and contrast. Think bold brushstrokes, monochrome sketches, or photography. Even a framed textile or contemporary line drawing can inject personality. Art helps express your style and connects the tub to the rest of your home’s aesthetic.

9. Style with Purposeful Accessories

Avoid over-accessorizing the space with frilly or overly ornate details. Instead, choose a few thoughtful items—like a sleek stool, modern tray, or glass jars with bath salts—to complement the tub’s charm. Focus on clean shapes and natural materials. The key is to enhance function and beauty without veering into overly nostalgic territory, giving your clawfoot tub a curated, fresh, and timeless vibe.

This article was created with the assistance of AI but thoroughly edited by a human being.