Powder rooms add to a home’s value, and they should receive special treatment when it comes to decorating. Even though their smaller size is typically easier on the budget, they should make a big impact when guests enter. Although they may be in use every day, these compact rooms require a unique touch, especially for anyone who entertains often.
Every element counts in planning a powder room design. From wall trim to fixtures, accessories must work well together. This is the perfect opportunity to indulge a little, whether with over-the-top colors and patterns or luxuriously formal appointments. In between, styles varying from farmhouse to urban chic can place anyone’s creative side on display.
Powder Room History
In the late 1700s, powder rooms held a different meaning although with a similar purpose, which included primping. Retreating to these tiny closet-like areas, ladies and gentlemen would spend a few minutes having their wigs spiffed up with fresh powder. Public and private powder rooms soon progressed somewhat in size along with the addition of toilets and hand-washing facilities. Restaurants, theaters and other commercial places expanded their lavatories for women into a foyer of sorts that included multiple tables or counters with benches and chairs for repairing makeup. In polite society, the notion of a lady going to powder her nose took on the unspoken connotation of a need to use the facilities.
The powder room gained further acceptance in residential designs as a reason to keep guests from wandering about the home unsupervised. Family bath areas and their contents remained private and safely away from a closer inspection. Situated near the front door or as an offshoot of first-floor hallways, the lavatory became a fashionable retreat worthy of display. Referred to as a half-bath, this limited space retained an air of refinement that was always ready for use by visitors.
Wicker Ideas for Powder Rooms
With the absence of a shower or bathtub, and less humidity to worry about, natural wicker is a wonderful option that can also complement a wide variety of decorating styles.
Following the design flow of other living spaces, a powder room can be either light and bright or subdued. Table and floor lamps cast a flattering glow while complementing installed wall and ceiling fixtures. Lamps designed for outdoor living areas include a range of tropical and trendy colors that set a livelier tone. Console height or standard table lamps with woven rattan bases cast a soft glow and add a traditional touch.
Mirrors should make a strong statement in style while being practical. As wall accents, they also reflect light and can make small spaces appear larger. Classic styles with wicker frames include rectangles and arched tops. Porthole rounds can provide nautical flair, and oval or heart shapes with their romantic appeal are charming additions among Victorian and vintage decor. Powder room basins are the typical place to add mirrors, but if there is room, think about adding a mirror at a lower height above a vanity table instead.
Wicker tables, shelves, cabinets and baskets found in other areas of the home can be star attractions in powder rooms. A smaller etagere, for instance, provides display space and can fit in a corner. All-weather resin wicker accent tables and carts are creative options for displaying designer hand towels and guest amenities.
Modern and traditional powder rooms can benefit from wicker accessories. With an eye for minimalist detailing and a careful placement of rattan or bamboo accessories, the half-bath is easy to customize for both residents and guests.