5 Eclectic Small Bathroom Designs

From Margaret on August 4th, 2010 in Bathroom Remodel

Because of its typically small size and utilitarian purposes, the bathroom can sometimes be disregarded as a place to create good design and beauty. But that notion couldn’t be more incorrect. You know this. You’ve walked into a friend’s bathroom and gasped in delight, or ogled the powder room at a dinner party and have been tempted to skip the tiramisu just to admire the tiling longer.

I know you love pretty bathrooms as much as I do. Here are some ideas to take your own bathroom from blah to beautiful and unique.

#1 – Old-World Glam

In a place where function reigns, go with old-world glam to soften the space. Paint the walls to look as if they’ve been around for centuries. Switch out the mirror for an antique mart find. Hang a chandelier. A woven rug not originally intended for a bathroom. And add unique details that will make the space entirely yours, as with this dress. Or a stack of books on an old stool. Or candles lining the ledge above the tub. Or an old record player with opera records lined beside it. The options are infinite.

#2 – Dark, Intriguing Tile

Particularly in a small bathroom, where unexpected details give you a big bang for your buck, dark tiling can revolutionize a simple neutral bathroom into a classy corner. The simple and straightforward shapes of the porcelain, mirror and white window contrast this dark tiling beautifully.

#3 – Feminine Chic

For a very feminine space, the details make all the difference. Switch out the light fixtures and create an option for dimmer bath-time lighting. Add heavy but delicate drapes. And introduce a bit of luxury in the details of vanity seating and general linens. Glass of wine not included.

#4 – Bold Wall Prints

While you may not want to go so far as to change all the cabinetry, hardware and porcelain, you can completely change the look of a bathroom with a bold print. Again, the smaller the space, the more dramatic a bold print can seem. Add small details that complement and bring out the print. Change out the hardware and linens to match.

#5 – Masculine Minimalism

For a masculine and strong look, go dark all around. While this bathroom uses marble and tiling, a similar effect can be achieved with high-gloss gloss paint. Stay away from delicate details and go for the bolder minimalist choices. To keep it from being too stark, consider adding a third color, as seen here.

Photo Credit: Twig Hutchinson, Rachael Smith, Nuevo-Estilo, Sunset, & Greg Natale