I grew up watching This Old House with my mother and somewhere deep inside me is a traditionalist. Traditional style done well is at once elegant and soothing—not too ornate nor too simplistic. The most widespread mistake people make with the concept of traditional style is assuming that ornate and traditional are synonymous.

Image courtesy of Houzz

Unless you live in a 20,000-square-foot mansion, this vanity shouldn’t come anywhere near your bathroom. Of course traditional can be ornate, but think of it more as classic elegance. Heirloom art, a little bit of gilt, a touch of marble, and crown moldings go a long way in the average bathroom.

So how does one choose modern-day bathroom sinks and toilets with a classically elegant feeling? Have a look at these, both of which can easily be adapted to a different style down the road should you decide that This Old Bathroom needs a more modern ambiance. You’ll notice a clean feeling, but not sleek. Beveled edges and a sense of structure—or architecture, if you will—define most of the pieces.

The Brentwood Suite has more angles and works well with heavier accents, such as dark woods and marble tile. The Waverly Suite is a bit daintier and curved but with the beveled edges on the bathroom toilet and lavatories, it fits seamlessly in a classic bathroom.

Hmmm, I’m feeling inspired; maybe I ought to have another look at that guest bath before I rule out a little bit of tradition.