Powder Room Makeovers... Small project, BIG impact
By: Allison Havill Todd
Update your sink for added style. Photo courtesy of AHT Interiors.
Not ready to tackle a whole room makeover or remodeling project? Want to feel that you are making progress in completing the interior spaces of your home? Take a fresh look at your powder room. This is space that is often overlooked by homeowners, yet frequented by guests as well as family members. So if you're ready for a change, why not dress it up and make a statement. Your powder room is a great project where you can get a lot of "bang for your buck"!
Review these items when approaching a powder room makeover:
Walls- A quality wallcovering with a protective finish is a great choice. It can be wiped clean and will not show water marks, scuffs, toothpaste stains, etc. that a painted finish will. Today's wallcovering products provide easy cleaning and removal, plus beautiful finishes. Textured wallpaper is especially forgiving of any flaws in the drywall and can visually expand the space. Don't fear large patterns or dark colors; this is your chance to experiment and do something bold that might be too overpowering in a larger room.
Sinks - Consider replacing a dated pedestal sink with a built-in cabinet or free standing sink/chest for more effective use of space. This will also provide much needed storage. If counter space allows, add a small accent lamp to provide a soft glow in the evenings or when entertaining.
Mirrors - If you still have the original builder-grade mirror, it is time to replace it with something more stylish. A custom frame may be added to finish the edges of an existing plate glass mirror.
Fixtures - A quick way to update the look of this space is to replace the light fixtures and hardware. There are many faucets and handles available to coordinate with a new light fixture.
Floors - A small area rug (not a bath mat) works beautifully to add more style to hardwood or tile floors. Replacing existing vinyl flooring with hardwood or tile is also economical, as this tends to be fairly small square footage.
Showers - If your powder room doubles as a full bath for an adjacent guest room or home office, a custom shower treatment is well worth the cost to add some pizzazz. This is not the place for an ill-fitting, skimpy shower curtain.
Accessories - One large piece of artwork or wall hanging is preferable to several smaller pieces. This can often create a bolder more dramatic overall look in a small space.
Although this is a smaller decorating project, it can be overwhelming as all of the elements need to work together in such a small space. If you are struggling with where to start or how to achieve a fresh, updated look, consult with an interior design professional to help you get the right results and avoid making costly mistakes.
AHT Interiors will be hosting a design seminar on powder room makeovers, Thursday, Oct.15th at 5:30 pm at their design studio. Please visit www.ahtinteriors.com for more information or to reserve a space.
Allison Havill Todd Interiors is an established North Atlanta interior design firm with a 2,500 sq. ft. custom design studio and extensive resource library. Our team has more than 15 years of combined experience in designing fine interiors for the home and office. Contact AHT Interiors at 770-887-7612 or www.ahtinteriors.com.
Have a design dilemma? Click Ask Our Experts... Allison's got your answers!
