The right powder room design can say a lot.
Story by Tracy Dickinson
Photography By Tim Abramowitz
Featured in November/December 2022
Although it’s often the smallest room in the home, the powder room provides the perfect opportunity to make a big design statement.
According to Mara Bramer of The Kitchen & Bath Company, “Powder rooms are usually smaller spaces, so you want to choose one feature to stand out and make that the focal point. Everything else should complement it, not compete with it.”
That sounds like good advice for a space that’s focused on guests. And what better way to show a little extra love than by making the guest bath a beautiful, welcoming space.
Say It with Color
One of the easiest ways to make a statement with your powder room design is by strategic use of color.
“Because it is a smaller space, a lot of people find it easier to step out of that box and have some fun with it,” says Woodharbor’s Jammie Pekarek. “We are seeing more greens, blues, even some purples coming in. Other bathrooms in the home may be lighter, more spalike, but the powder room has become a statement room.”
Bramer agrees. “Homeowners feel they can go a little more bold than in a master bath or kids’ bath. That might be a brighter color for the vanity cabinet or maybe a dark accent wall or some fun, bold wallpaper.”
Using too much color in a typical powder room with minimal square footage can overwhelm quickly, so it’s important to incorporate color strategically. Paint, wallpaper, and decor items can add color and personality, enhancing the space without dominating it.
“Wallpaper is my go-to to add instant personality,” says AIM Kitchen & Bath’s Deb Pudenz. “It’s a nice little pop for the bath that sees the most use by guests. If wallpaper isn’t your thing, wainscoting is another great way to add some character to the space.”
Make a Statement with Fixtures
It doesn’t take a lot to make a bold statement. This is especially important in choosing the fixtures for a powder room.
“Getting creative, not eating up more square footage than needed, that’s key to a well-designed guest bath,” says Rob Walker of BLC Projects. “And there are so many more fixture options available for small spaces now that you can find some unique options that really add interest without taking up the whole room.”
Floating vanities are ideal for this situation since most guest baths don’t require a great deal of storage. Homes typically have a linen closet or pantry nearby for that purpose.
Bramer says, “A vessel bowl sink with a tall faucet feels spalike. With quartz countertops or brighter colors for the cabinets, it can make a big impact.”
Moehl Millwork’s Jeanine Weinzierl says white cabinetry remains the most popular choice for most homeowners. “If the homeowner is wanting to make a bold statement, using darker stained cabinetry or finishing with a pop of unexpected color can be a great solution for this space.”
Earth tones and natural finishes are as popular in guest baths as they are elsewhere in the home, but how you interpret those elements can still make a statement. “The golden oak age is over,” says Bramer. “Light and bright or dark and moody are the popular trends right now.”
Accenting that striking cabinetry or floating sink with the perfect hardware and the right lighting brings everything together.
Add Your Own Accent
It’s those finishing touches that really say “Welcome” to your guests.
“A well-lit mirror is a necessity,” says Weinzierl. “Mixing contemporary and traditional elements, adding some interesting artwork—all of these elements create a warm welcome for guests.”
In addition to functionality, lighting is another fun way to add personality to a small room.
“I’m seeing a lot of pendant lights and wall sconces replacing standard vanity lights, which is a neat feature in a small space,” says Pekarek.
Bramer says, “I’m seeing single pendant lights over the vanity as well, maybe with some recessed ceiling lights.”
Even the mirror should be more than just functional.
“A unique-shaped mirror or a chandelier can help make the space more ‘designed’ and less utilitarian,” says Pudenz. “We can have a little fun because the room is small. And homeowners are willing to take more risks with color, pattern, and lighting here.”
“I see more people using framed mirrors in the powder room,” Walker says. “These are also easier to switch out if a homeowner wants to mix up the decor to suit the season or just for variety. And they don’t take up additional space like some other decorative pieces would.”
With the holidays approaching, the powder room is ideal for seasonal touches.
“Adding greenery is becoming popular year-round. Adding plants and succulents to floating shelves works really well,” says Pekarek, “but this is especially nice during the holidays.”
“Never underestimate the power of fresh flowers or evergreen sprigs,” Pudenz says. “I love putting fresh evergreen in a simple vase with a velvet ribbon tied around it. Winter greenery adds an elegant holiday touch, and the fresh evergreen lasts at least a month with just a weekly change of water.”
“I like to keep the decorative pieces minimal because of the limited space. But one simple piece can have a lot of impact—a basket of pinecones with a red bow on it, maybe a scented candle, or a single Christmas decoration hung from ribbon on each sconce,” Weinzierl says.
“Less is more in the powder room,” Bramer says. “Keep it simple.”
When it’s done well, simple can be the boldest statement of all. •
Resources
- Deb Pudenz AIM Kitchen & Bath
- Rob Walker BLC Projects
- Mara Bramer The Kitchen & Bath Company
- Jeanine Weinzierl Moehl Millwork
- Jammie Pekarek Woodharbor