Whether you call it the powder room, half bath or guest bathroom, this little addition to your home can make a big impression on your guests and more. Some experts suggest that an extra bathroom greatly increases the value of Australian homes to potential buyers.

The term ‘powder room’ was first coined in the early 18th century when people used these small rooms to have their wigs re-powdered. In modern times, powder rooms are used as extra, smaller bathrooms that mostly contain only a toilet and sink. The powder room is often located in small corners or under staircases, and close to the kitchen or living area, which makes it convenient as a bathroom for guests. Although rarely larger than a closet, the interior design of these little rooms shouldn't be neglected. They are a reflection of the owner’s style, an addition to the home decor and packed full of design potential.

Are you keen to spruce up you powder room and get it ready for all the positive attention it deserves? There are numerous styles, finishes and fixtures that you can incorporate into your powder room. To get you started, we have compiled a list of our favourite elements to spruce up your powder room.

Colour

Colour is one of the most important design elements. It adds personality to a room; it creates the illusion of space and sets the mood. Neutral white, beige or creamy tones add a sense of calm and freshness to the room, while lighter colours also make the room appear more spacious.

Crisp colour combinations such as white and silver, or dark grey, create an interesting contrast and make the room feel cosier. Don’t shy away from bright colours; a splash of colour in the walls, rugs or accessories will instantly add visual interest and personality to the room. Warm metals, such as bronze, copper and gold, are very popular this year. You can give your powder room an instant, contemporary make-over by adding details like lights, faucets or soap dispensers in these colours. An experienced interior designer will be well-equipped in giving you advice on choosing contemporary colour solutions which won’t date quickly.

Textures

Use a blend of various textures for an edgy and modern-looking powder room. Look for ways to create contrast that will enhance different elements in the powder room design. A shiny, metallic basin bowl works wonders when placed on a marbled surface. Add light wooden finishes or a plant in the room for a natural touch.

Tiles are also very effective in adding texture. They are available in a variety of textures and finishes – from smooth, black tiles, to textured stone varieties – to suit any taste and preference.

Space

The powder room may be the smallest room in your home, but don’t let this cramp your style. Keep things clear and simple and use the space well to create the illusion of a bigger room. Always keep the bathroom uncluttered, use only basic, well-designed accessories and store extras like soap and cosmetics out of sight.

For a lightweight solution, choose a slim bathroom vanity (or pedestal) sink which is installed to float. If you don’t like the idea of powder room vanities, then you may want to consider other powder room basins such as a vessel sink. This usually consists of a bowl that is made of interesting material like stone, china or even blown glass, which is place on or into a counter with a faucet.

Light

Make use of smart lighting features to enhance your small bathroom. Add ambient lights from the ceiling to light up the room. Use warmer temperature bulbs to make the room look cosy and inviting. You can also make use of decorative lighting to add visual interest to the bathroom. Consider installing a single hanging light with an interesting cover.

You may also want to light up the mirror with task lighting to provide a shadowless reflection for guests who are shaving or touching up their make-up.

A large, well-designed mirror is a beautiful centre piece, but it also reflects light, which makes a room appear bigger and brighter. You can place a large mirror behind the basin or place two mirrors in strategic places on various sides of the room.

Personalise it

The powder room is an extension of your home and you can personalise it by adding elements that reflect your own style and personality. This may be as simple as adding flowers from the garden, or hanging a well-designed framed poster or artwork in the bathroom. If it suits your tastes and home, consider adding a theme to the room. The options are endless; themes can range from subtle ideas like adding elements from nature or the ocean, or be as big as creating a nautical scene or a vintage bathroom design.

Finishing touches

Once you’re done making the major changes to your small bathroom design, you can personalise it by adding small detail that will enhance the space and create a stylish impression. Place scented candles in the room for soft light and a fresh scent. Splurge on interesting soap or a beautiful soap dispenser to place by the sink and add a waste basket and extra paper near the toilet. Also add a clean hand towel in a colour that matches or complements your powder room’s new look. Leave small luxury items, like hand lotion, at the vanity – this will leave your guests feeling pampered and looked after.

We hope these powder room ideas are leaving you inspired to revamp and redecorate your small bathroom.