My Top Ten Rules for Gorgeous Powder Rooms
I love to decorate Powder Rooms. Here are my Top Ten rules for a beautiful powder room:
#1
DECIDE WHAT IS MOST IMPORTANT
Select the design element that you want to have stand out. Then low-key most of the other elements so that the end result is pleasing.
So, if you are using a killer tile, scale back on the other accents, and don’t go with a too-busy-anything-else.
If you have a mirror that is extremely decorative, don’t kill it with everything else being extremely decorative.
If you like wallpaper, this is the place for that wonderful statement wallpaper. High-end designer wallpaper that would be too-too much in a regular sized room can be perfect in a powder room.
Decide what is going to become your most important design element, so you don’t get carried away with too many other decorative finishes.
A good residential stylist can keep you on track if you are prone to going over the top.
#2
Don’t mix your metals/finishes in a Powder Room.
Try to keep the same finishes in the tiny space for a more harmonious look, below.
BELOW: The Pewter color is repeated even in the wallpaper, and the all-pewter gives the powder room a harmonious look.
#3
Don’t use dinky mirrors
#4
Use sconces in addition to overhead lighting.
Over-mirror lighting can throw odd shadows and is to be avoided.
#5
VESSEL SINKS WILL BECOME DATED
If you must use a vessel sink, be sure that it has enough depth to minimize
splashing. However, I try to avoid them altogether.
#6
Use Chinoiserie for Color and Drama
#7
Keep your undertones similar.
BELOW: Undertone Perfection.
#8
Use antique, repurposed, or vintage pieces if doing a furniture-look built-in.
Otherwise, use nice built-in cabinetry. A brand-new piece of furniture for your sink almost never works .
#9
Use creamy whites with brown, and whiter whites with black.
#10
Quality over quantity. Don’t over-accessorize, and do use the nicest soaps and linens you can possibly afford.
