Bathrooms can be tricky spaces to get right. In this article, I’m focusing on powder rooms used by guests and visitors. These small spaces are used infrequently throughout the day for brief periods; their design provides an opportunity for some fun or quirkiness.

In this room, consider taking a different approach to the décor of the other areas of your home, using a bold colour or pattern which might be uncomfortable or awkward in a larger space. A busy floor tile pattern in a large area might be unsettling visually, but in a small space it will appear more balanced.

Being a smaller space, you can be more creative, using finishes and details which are more adventurous, with a more dramatic impact. An unexpected chandelier or mirror finish over the vanity can provide a wow factor. Perhaps add an interesting, framed artwork or an oversized poster?

I like to use wallpapers in different ways, perhaps something unexpected; a vertical bold stripe will make the ceiling appear higher. Consider displaying on a plain painted wall segments of the same wallpaper using a selection of picture frames of different sizes and profiles.

For a recent project, on the window wall I installed timber panelling to hip height, with a floral wallpaper above, to the ceiling. The wallpaper pattern of flowers, leaves and tendrils made the room appear wider. We painted the wood panelling a complementary colour, reflecting one of the shades from the wallpaper.

Little details in bathrooms stand out. There is great scope for expressing your style by carefully choosing the bathroom accessories, always remembering that ease of cleaning is vital.

If space permits, perhaps select a feature piece of furniture which is not usually found in a bathroom, which also adds bonus storage.

Your guests and visitors will be surprised by your creativity!

Published in the June 2022 Issue of The Trentham Trumpet