Bathroom Remodeling Ideas Perfect for Historic Louisiana Homes

Historic homes across South Louisiana — from Acadian cottages to Creole townhomes — were never designed for the modern bathrooms we enjoy today. Small layouts, outdated plumbing, and aging materials make bathroom remodels both challenging and rewarding.

But with the right design choices, you can create a bathroom that blends Cajun-French charm with modern comfort, performance, and durability. At Cajun Conservation, we remodel bathrooms throughout Acadiana with a focus on preserving heritage while upgrading for Louisiana’s climate.

Here are the best bathroom remodeling ideas for historic Louisiana homes.

1. Walk-In Showers with Classic Tile Patterns

Walk-in showers offer accessibility and a modern look — but with the right tile, they can still feel historic.

Best Tile Choices for Cajun & Creole Homes:

• White subway tile

• Basketweave mosaic

• Hexagon tile (classic black & white)

• Carrara-style porcelain

These materials keep the space bright, timeless, and easy to clean.

💡 Pro Tip: Use porcelain instead of marble — it handles Louisiana humidity better and needs less maintenance.

2. Clawfoot or Pedestal Tubs

Nothing fits a historic Louisiana bathroom like a clawfoot tub. They add vintage charm while keeping the room functional.

Why Homeowners Love Them:

• Perfect for cottages & Creole homes

• Create a visual centerpiece

• Easy to pair with modern fixtures

If space is limited, a pedestal tub preserves the vintage look without overwhelming the room.

3. Custom Vanities Using Reclaimed Wood

For a truly authentic feel, consider a vanity built from:

• Cypress

• Reclaimed barnwood

• Repurposed antique furniture

This brings warmth and Cajun personality into the space, while still offering modern storage and plumbing.

💡 Pro Tip: Seal reclaimed wood properly to prevent moisture damage in Louisiana’s climate.

4. Beadboard Walls & Ceilings

Beadboard is a staple in Cajun and Creole architecture.

Why It Works in Bathrooms:

• Moisture-friendly when sealed

• Adds vertical height

• Complements antique and modern styles

Use beadboard on walls, ceilings, or as wainscoting for a refined historic look.

5. Period-Style Lighting

Lighting makes or breaks a historic bathroom.

Top Picks for Historic Louisiana Homes:

• Vintage brass sconces

• Edison-bulb fixtures

• Schoolhouse-style globes

• Lantern-style pendants

Combine period-style lights with LED efficiency for function + character.

6. Natural Wood Accents

Warm wood tones soften modern bathrooms and complement historic architecture.

Great options include:

• Floating shelves

• Framed mirrors

• Wall trim

• Window casings

• Wooden shower benches

These details add rustic charm and connect the space to the rest of the home.

7. Large Walk-In Closets or Laundry Additions (If Space Allows)

Many older Louisiana homes lack storage, making this a valuable upgrade.

Ideas:

• Integrate a closet behind the bathroom

• Add a laundry nook

• Build floor-to-ceiling cabinetry

These functional upgrades increase resale value while improving daily living.

Cost of Remodeling a Bathroom in a Historic Louisiana Home

• Cosmetic Refresh: $12,000–$18,000

• Mid-Range Remodel: $20,000–$35,000

• Full Historic Renovation: $40,000–$65,000+

Costs vary depending on:

• plumbing upgrades

• tile selection

• custom carpentry

• layout changes

• age/condition of the home

💡 Pro Tip: Old plumbing is the biggest hidden cost — always budget 15–20% extra for surprises.

FAQs About Bathroom Remodels in Historic Louisiana Homes

Q: Can modern bathrooms fit into small historic layouts?Absolutely. Creative layout changes and custom vanities make small spaces functional without losing charm.

Q: Should I keep the original tub or fixtures?If salvageable, yes — they add authenticity. If not, modern replicas maintain the style.

Q: Is it expensive to update old plumbing?Plumbing is often the biggest cost in historic homes, but updating it ensures longevity and prevents leaks.

Why Cajun Conservation Is the Best Choice for Bathroom Remodels

We remodel bathrooms with respect for Cajun-French architecture, ensuring each project blends historic details with modern performance. Our team specializes in:✔️ Historic home layout improvements✔️ Custom vanities & carpentry✔️ Tilework built for Louisiana humidity✔️ Plumbing & electrical upgrades✔️ Long-lasting, climate-ready finishes

Ready to Remodel Your Bathroom?

Whether you're updating a Creole townhome, an Acadian cottage, or a farmhouse in Acadiana, Cajun Conservation will create a bathroom that honors your home’s history while giving you comfort for years to come.

👉 Schedule your free consultation today and let’s get started.