BOLD STATEMENTS

A dark, moody wall colour (think navy, deep purple or burgundy), offset by metallic accents in your mirror frame, faucets and drawer handles, creates a decadent, jewel-box effect. Boldly patterned wallpaper, floor or wall tiles, like the Marca Corona 3D tiles available at Paramount, can equally pack a dramatic punch – but as small spaces can easily become too ‘busy’, opt for one statement feature and design everything else around it.

THE LOOKING GLASS

Powder rooms tend to be compact and dark, so mirrors are essential not only for guests to check their reflection, but also to bounce light around and create a greater sense of space. Rather than an ordinary, frameless mirror, choose one in an unusual shape or with an interesting frame, such as Design Studio’s Metal-Framed Round Mirror.

LAYERED LIGHTING

Overhead lighting can create odd shadows on faces, whereas a pair of sconce lights – or even a pair of pendants – positioned either side of the mirror will cast a more even, and therefore more flattering, light. Better still, layer lighting with an overhead pendant and side-by-side mirror lights. Choose light fixtures that go beyond the functional to deliver a little bathroom sass.

BATHROOM VANITY

If you’ve kept walls and floors fairly plain, make your sink or vanity the focal
feature. A floating 
sink, or one supported by the simplest of structures, like the Kallista console table legs available at A. L. Thompson’s is ideal when space is at a premium.

If you have room, the Tiffany Collection of classic, elegant vanities by Baden Haus, stocked by Brand Source, deliver style and storage in one.

For a more contemporary look, choose a distinctive countertop. We love ThinkGlass’s thermoformed glass countertops from Pooley Cabinets which have an almost aquatic glow.

ACCESSORISE WITH FLAIR

It’s the finishing touches that will ramp up the wow factor in your powder room.

Rather than plain white hand towels, inject a little fun with shocking pink or lime green ones; add an orchid or a leafy potted plant to add life to all-white spaces or create a gallery wall of small framed prints and photos.

Most importantly, spoil your guests with some luxurious bathroom products: Bedside Manor’s gorgeous selection of frangipani and neroli scented reed diffusers, hand wash and lotion by Cochine will not go unappreciated in any bathroom.