Bring Living Room Style to Your Powder Room

Houzz recently shared 25 design trends expected to make an impact in 2016, and among them are “bathrooms that feel more like living spaces.” From stylish wallpaper to bold chandeliers, a few strategic statements can make the powder room much more than a practical space. Bonus points if you have room for a comfy chair or a fireplace! For those of us who don’t have much space to work with, there are still small touches that can create a comfy, hospitable feel. Read on for details…

Modern-bathroom-with-bright-accents-217x155

Seating

Let’s start with seating! Why would you need a chair in the bathroom? Perhaps you’d like to sit near the countertop as you apply makeup. Or maybe your closet is nearby and a chair comes in handy when putting on your shoes. At the very least, powder room seating can hold towels, bath products or other items while creating a relaxing feel. And how about that living wall below?!!! [from Houzz]

Oh the beauty of a modern chair next to the fireplace. In the bathroom. Wouldn’t that be a dream?! No fireplace? Don’t forget about the power of a window seat, which can be a good option if you’re short on space. [from Stern McCafferty via Houzz]

A small, low stool or a footstool can be the perfect place to stash flowers and bath products next to the tub. Aesthetically pleasing and practical! [from LEVIARS via Houzz]

Handy stool in a powder room with plenty of natural light

Statement Lighting

Lighting is a wonderful way to create a stunning focal point in the powder room. And no matter how small the bathroom, you can probably find a way to attach a pendant light to the ceiling. If you have limited knowledge of electrical wiring, best to hire a professional to hang the light, but you can have fun picking it out! [from Lonny]

Above and below we see Sputnik chandeliers, which add a retro feel while introducing a dash of modern glamour. And don’t forget about the power of metallic accents, wooden surfaces and a bouquet of flowers! [from Jodie Rosen Design via Houzz]

Sputnik chandelier and tulips in a modern powder room

You don’t have to purchase a large pendant light to add drama and flair to the powder room. The delicate pendant below is the perfect size for an above-sink statement, and together with special touches such as the countertop mirror, it creates a lovely vignette. [from Lonny]

Delicate pendant lighting in a powder room with marble detailing

Stylish Accents

We now move to small accents that can easily be added to the bathroom to create a living room feel. Let’s start with plants, which bring a fresh, green touch to the powder room. It’s hard to get more charming and elegant than the four topiaries showcased below. [from Lonny]

Topiaries on the ledge of a luxury bathtub

Selecting special, framed artwork can also help create a curated look in the bathroom. Go for a gallery feel by covering a whole wall in pictures, or stick with one strong piece, such as the framed sea fan in the next image. [from Sheila Rich Interiors via Houzz]

A beautiful mirror and a towel with a striking pattern can also add personality to your powder room. Not to mention, design enthusiasts often create interesting accent walls in the bathroom…because why not?! Whether you select wallpaper or paint to get the job done, don’t be afraid to go bold! [from Lonny]

Eclectic bathroom with wallpaper and a geometric mirror

Colorful accents are perfect for bathrooms featuring neutral tones on the walls, flooring and countertops. Bright vases and artwork are fun choices, and bath products in vibrant packaging can be displayed on bathroom shelving much like you would display objets d’art on living room bookcases! [from Lonny]