SMALL SPACES, BIG IDEAS
GET A SPACE THAT PACKS A PUNCH IN SPITE OF ITS PETITE PROPORTIONS WITH TIPS FROM OUR DESIGN EXPERTS
FEATURE Hugh Metcalf
1 KEEP CALM
Bold wallpaper can bring huge personality to asmall room, but it doesn’t have to be overstimulating. This powder room design has the qualities of a jewel-box space, but is far more relaxing. ‘We wanted to create an experience that made an impression, but also one that can be enjoyed for many years without looking tired.’
Georgina Jeffries, interior designer
2 TILING TRICKS
If choosing tiles for your walls, the direction you lay them can make a real difference in a space with the size limitations of a powder room. However, sometimes the ideal solution for a tiny bathroom is the best of both worlds. ‘Running tiles vertically will add height to the room, while a horizontal pattern will open the space. One of my favourite things to do is run metro tiles horizontally about half of the way up the wall and then run the tiles vertically up to the ceiling. This clever trick breaks up the vertical so that it doesn’t make the space feel like a column.’ Sarah Rosenhaus, principal and founder of Sarah Rosenhaus Interior Design
3 CREATIVE FREEDOM
Even if you’re usually adverse to statement-making interiors, the powder room is one place to let your creativity run wild – especially as it’s a space that’s often only used lightly, or by guests. W hatever your decorating st yle, this is a place that can take bolder colour, pattern and textures, without worries you’re going to be tired of it in just a few weeks’ time. ‘In a small bathroom, create a splash by using eye-catching wallpaper and paint the woodwork to match. It’s like alittle explosive surprise that you can enjoy when you open the door.’
Shannon Murray Petruzello, founder of Shannon Murray Interiors
4 THE DARK SIDE
If you’re dealing with a windowless space, your first instinct may be to paint it all white to make it feel as light and bright as possible. However, most designers look at spaces like this as an opportunity to do just the opposite. ‘Powder rooms tend to be spaces with a very small window or no window at all. Embrace it. Make it moody and fun, adding dramatic deep colour with wallpaper and bringing in mood lighting for further enhancement.’
Shona McElroy, founder of Smac Studio
5 LIGHT WORK
A powder room doesn’t need to be such aworkhorse when it comes to lighting as amain bathroom so bear that in mind when planning your design. ‘In bathrooms where you will be putting on make-up or changing contact lenses, you will want a mix of task lighting and ambient li
