Transforming a Tiny Space into Something Spectacular
I’m back with another installment in the room decorating saga! While I may not be a seasoned design expert, I’ve learned a thing or two over the past several years about how to bring a space together – and how not to. The plan is to tackle a different room in the house every month, so by the end of the year, you’ll have a comprehensive guide to decorating the home of your dreams. Last time, I shared my insights on decorating a dining room. Today, we’re diving into the wonderful world of bathroom decor, focusing on one of the most intriguing and challenging spaces: the powder room.
You see, the powder room is a little different from the other rooms we’ve covered. When it comes to decorating, there are no hard and fast rules – every space, home, and family is unique. Instead, I want to offer some guiding principles to help you make the most of your current powder room, even if you’re not thrilled with the existing setup and have plans for a full-scale renovation down the line.
Embrace the Jewel Box Effect
Ask any designer, and they’ll likely tell you that the powder room is the perfect place to take a design risk. These postage-sized spaces offer a cost-effective canvas for luxurious materials and bold, eye-catching statements. As designer Tish Mills puts it, the goal is to create a “little jewel box” – the kind of room that leaves your guests asking, “Have you seen the powder room?”
So, take a deep breath and step outside your comfort zone! Scenic wallpaper murals, painted baseboards and ceilings, and extroverted tile can all transform a powder room into a true experience. And the best part? If you grow tired of a particular scheme after a few years, it’s relatively easy and inexpensive to redo.
Make the Most of a Small Space
The diminutive proportions of a powder room can feel like a challenge, but skilled designers know how to leverage these constraints to create a sense of visual grandeur. “Lighting and mirrors can make a small space feel so much more ample,” says designer Regan Billingsley. Consider a wall-to-wall mirror over the vanity – while it may seem like a boring choice, the resulting illusion can significantly enlarge the room. Just be sure to pair it with a lively wallpaper or other statement-making element to keep things interesting.
Break the Mold with Art and Accessories
Wallpaper may be the go-to for powder room design, but it’s far from your only option. Designer Annie Santulli loves incorporating large pieces of artwork to create interest in these small spaces. And don’t be afraid to get playful with your accessories, too. “A decorative tissue box holder or soap pump go a long way toward transforming a powder room from pure function to high design,” Regan Billingsley advises.
Avoid Common Powder Room Pitfalls
Of course, there are a few don’ts to keep in mind when decorating a powder room. First and foremost, don’t let clutter take over. “Every square inch should be thoughtfully used or styled,” Regan cautions. When it comes to plumbing, don’t settle for anything less than luxurious. And while dark colors may seem risky, don’t shy away from them – they can create a cozy, jewel-box effect that’s perfect for a powder room.
Curating a Cohesive Look
Now, I know what you’re thinking: “But won’t dark colors make my tiny powder room feel even smaller?” Well, my friends, the reality is that no one spends too much time in a powder room, so the claustrophobic feeling you might get in a small bedroom simply doesn’t apply. In fact, dark walls can make a powder room feel like a cozy burrow – just the kind of atmosphere you want to cultivate for your guests.
The key is to ensure that your powder room design feels cohesive and intentional, seamlessly blending with the rest of your home. If you have traditional hardwood floors in the rest of your space, you may want to steer clear of the rustic, farmhouse-inspired vinyl plank flooring that’s so popular these days. Instead, consider a timeless and classic tile option that will stand the test of time.
Maximizing Your Budget
Of course, decorating a powder room on a tight budget can be a challenge, but it’s not impossible. The trick is to focus your spending on the big-ticket items that will have the most impact, like lighting, the vanity, and the mirror. For the smaller accessories and decor pieces, get creative by shopping your own home or scouring thrift stores and discount retailers.
One of my favorite budget-friendly tricks is to think outside the box when it comes to artwork. Instead of spending a fortune on a single piece, consider framing inexpensive items like wrapping paper, fabric scraps, or even family photographs. And don’t be afraid to get crafty – a simple DIY print or wall hanging can add a personal touch without breaking the bank.
Bringing it All Together
Decorating a powder room may seem like a small task, but it’s truly an opportunity to unleash your creativity and make a big impact in a tiny space. By embracing the “jewel box” aesthetic, leveraging the power of lighting and mirrors, and curating a cohesive look with a mix of high and low elements, you can transform your powder room into a showstopping sanctuary that will leave your guests in awe.
So, are you ready to dive in and give your powder room a refresh? Whether you’re working with a blank slate or an outdated space, these dos and don’ts will guide you every step of the way. Get ready to create a powder room that’s not just functional, but a true work of art.
References
[1] The DIY Playbook. “Bathroom Decorating 101”. https://thediyplaybook.com/bathroom-decorating-101/
[2] Chairish. “Dos and Don’ts for Decorating Your Powder Room”. https://www.chairish.com/blog/dos-and-donts-for-decorating-your-powder-room/
[3] Maria Killam. “Dos & Don’ts: Vinyl Plank Floors in the Bathroom”. https://mariakillam.com/dos-donts-vinyl-plank-floors-bathroom/
[4] Just a Girl and Her Blog. “How to Decorate a Powder Room for Less Than $50”. https://justagirlandherblog.com/how-to-decorate-a-powder-room-for-less-than-50/
[5] Driven by Decor. “Favorite Tips for Mixing Metals in Your Home”. https://www.drivenbydecor.com/favorite-tips-mixing-metals-home/
[6] Annie Santulli Designs. “Chairish Feature: Dos and Don’ts for Decorating Your Powder Room”. https://anniesantullidesigns.com/chairish-feature-dos-and-donts-for-decorating-your-powder-room/
[7] JRL Interiors. “Dos and Don’ts for Hanging Artwork”. https://www.jrlinteriors.com/blog/2019/6/26/dos-and-donts-for-hanging-artwork
[8] T. Moore Home. “Affordable Decorating Tips – Queer Money Podcast”. https://tmoorehome.com/affordable-decorating-tips-queer-money-podcast/