How to design a bathroom that makes a statement

By Linda Mazur
December 19, 2020

When designing a bathroom, we often think of ways to make it highly functional. We want to optimize every nook and cranny, and sometimes shy away from the aesthetics. However, with a few design tips, it’s easy to create a functional yet beautiful bathroom all wrapped up in one. In fact, a powder room or guest bathroom can be the perfect space to dip your toes into trying out a new trend, colour or pattern. The bathrooms of today pack a punch, and with these tips, yours can, too.

Colour is a great place to start when looking to create a wow factor. While white will always be classic, adding colour is a surefire trick to make your small space have big impact. If you want to start small, try adding in a hit of colour with your accessories, or even furniture… a blue vanity to complement those bold gold accents, or a coloured sink can be a great eye-catching design feature sure to steal the show.

Spa-like feel

If you find yourself a little more committed to colour, introduce coloured faucets. It might sound a bit unconventional, however, a bold red or blue faucet will make a statement. Paint is a great cost-efficient way to add style and transform the feel of your bathroom. Try that calming and tranquil blue for a spa-like feel or go big and bold with black on all four walls. Don’t forget that ceiling – it’s a fifth wall that can open a world of design opportunity, and when given a hit of colour it can take that space to the next level. Colour adds depth and dimension, two important design elements that will bring your small space to life.

Another great way to make a splash in the bathroom is by using wallpaper. When mentioning wallpaper, the reaction of many people is to cringe. We get it! However, today’s wall coverings not only offer an abundant selection of textures, patterns and colours, they also add amazing visual interest with eclectic murals, or by mimicking other finishes such as wood, metals or brick. Try adding wallpaper to one wall to create a feature wall, to the ceiling for a fun twist or even to all four walls for a major impact. Wherever you decide to use it, remember to keep the other elements more neutral and really let that wallpaper shine.

Let’s talk tile. The world of tile is vast and goes far beyond simple white subway tile. Tiles come in an array of colours, finishes, textures, shapes, sizes and patterns. If you’re looking for big impact and high contrast, then a black and white patterned floor tile will do just the trick. If you’re looking to make a subtle change to a classic like subway tile, then try stacking the tiles vertically and select a tile with a bit of a textured finish. For a bolder statement, a coloured 3D effect tile in your shower might just do the trick. Just like wallpaper, tile also can mimic the look of other finishes such as wood, brick, metals or even vintage distressed glass, to help you create a unique look in your bathroom.

Functional space

Bathrooms will always be a functional space; however, they do not need to be boring. The design options for bathrooms are no longer relegated to classic whites and neutrals, and we do not need to sacrifice beauty for function. There’s a world of opportunity available to us today to create high impact in this small space, so go ahead and try that blue and white hexagon tile on the floor, or those amazing chevron tiles you found for your shower niche, and give your bathroom the attention it deserves. Remember, the greatest surprises often come in the smallest packages… so be fearless when it comes to designing the smallest room in your home!

About Linda Mazur

Linda Mazur is an award-winning, nationally publicized designer and Principal of Linda Mazur Design Group. With almost two decades of experience this in demand multi-disciplinary design firm is known for creating relaxed, stylish spaces and full-scale design builds within Toronto, the GTA and throughout Canada. lindamazurdesign.com @LindaMazurGroup

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