Pink Bathrooms of the 1950s Present a Resale Challenge

Pink bathrooms were popular in 1950s and 1960s ranch, Cape, and split-level homes; but even as mid-century designs and architecture come back in vogue, most buyers are turned off by the pink tile. However, buyers who shun pink bathrooms are accepting of other 1950s pastel bathrooms. “It’s usually the man who reacts,” says Wyckoff, N.J.-based Coldwell Banker agent Maryanne Elsaesser. “They’re opposed to the fact that it’s a female color.” Even so, experts point out that these bathrooms were built to last, with sturdier tiles set into concrete, which is why so many of them remain today. “Much of tile from that era was literally twice as thick as the tile of today,” remarks agent Ron Aiosa of Butler, N.J.-based Coldwell Banker. “They don’t make materials like that anymore, that’s for sure.” Re/Max agent Robin Baron in Saddle River, N.J., says these bathrooms tend to be in fantastic condition; and she encourages buyers who cannot afford to renovate to paint the tile and tub or redecorate with new curtains and towels. Others recommend replacing pink vanities and toilets but leaving the pink tile alone. | Read More