The guest toilet, also referred to as the (small) downstairs toilet, loo, guest bathroom (albeit usually not featuring a bath or shower) or powder room (in the US; original meaning a women’s toilet in a public building), is often a less thought about space within one’s abode. It may be because it is usually a rather small space and just not at the forefront when thinking about one’s home. So why not have some fun with it? The smallest room in the flat / house can -or maybe, I dare to say, must- be stylish. There are just too many gorgeous examples of guest toilets and we have curated 10 guest toilet ideas for you – and how you can recreate the vibe at home.
1. Wallpaper
Use quirky / funky / eccentric wallpaper – as mentioned before, usually guest or downstairs toilets are commonly tiny to small spaces. You cannot go wrong with a cool wallpaper. I am a big fan of Fornasetti (Cole and Son) but also LOVE jungle and flower themes, reflecting nature and beauty.
2. Artistic toilet room idea
You are a fan of art? Use the space to show off a number of smaller artworks but make sure it looks harmonious. The wall can wither be a light colour with contrasting black frames (these ones from Amazon come with a mount) or a dark colour also with contrasting frames. Use the room to show your style and personality. It is a very easy way to upgrade your guest toilet for very little money.
3. Dark guest toilet idea
A dark colour scheme makes a great statement for a small toilet, making it look luxurious, often inspired by extraordinary toilets in restaurants for example. Dark green or dark blue are wonderful choices for a downstairs (or of course upstairs) toilet, mediating a luxurious feel. Matte colours from Farrow and Ball, Painting the Past, MissPompadour, Caparol Icons and others look (and are) more expensive than shiny wall paint – but it’s totally worth it. Get a colour card of the brands you like in advance, pick a few and buy small samples to try the wall paint in advance. Lighting (many guest toilets are windowless) has a huge influence on how the colour appears.
4. Black and white design
A black and white theme also creates a luxury toilet. If you want an elegant yet modern design for your guest toilet, this may the best choice for you. Brass fixtures add a touch of elegance, whereas black or white matte fixtures would give a more minimalist look. A great guest toilet idea.
5. All white
A white bathroom shouts out cleanliness, minimalist, modern – a safe choice, creating a fresh and inviting space. It is neutral and can be decorated to add some personalised touches. Think hand towels (maybe numerous ones folded nicely in a basket), candles (my favourites are still Byredo (all time favourite is Loveless) and Diptyque – oldies but goodies), soap (one can never go wrong with Aesop but I also really like Grown Alchemist.
6. A statement mirror and vanity lighting
A statement mirror and some statement vanity lights can make all the difference. Mirrors create a visual illusion of space, they are focal points and also a necessity in any toilet and bathroom. Paired with gorgeous vanity lights (placed either on the sides of the mirror or above the mirror), it is a quick update to any guest toilet. Sometimes a great pendant light may be more appropriate for the space.
7. Stripes anyone?
We are really loving stripes at the moment – and this includes in the guest toilet. It can -depending on the kind of stripes and decor – give away a coastal look (great) or just be a little fun and funky. Another great guest toilet idea.
8. Country style loo
Living in a cottage or just loving the gorgeous country side style? Get a traditional below the sink cabinet, radiating a warm, comfortable and inviting feel with a timeless, natural appearance. Decorate with some flowers, a traditional above the sink mirror and gorgeous traditional wallpaper.
9. Minimalist and modern – but not boring
You love the clean and neutral look but are feeling a little dare-devilish? Instead of opting for greys or beige, chose a pastel colour and combine it with white or black matte fixtures. Always a winner!
10. SINK in
If you want to splurge a little on an eye-catcher sink, have a look at Kast Concrete Basins and Huguet Mallorca. There isn’t much more a guest toilet really needs (apart from the usual other necessities of course) – and it really makes your tiny space so much more special.
To complete these examples of how to facelift / renovate your downstairs toilet / guest toilet or whatever term you may use, use accessories like hand towels, a nice hand soap (refer to the “All White” section), one or more scented candles (refer to the “All White” section), flowers, etc. to make that space extra special. Don’t be shy! Think about how the space is used. From a practical point, consider a tile and wallpaper or tile and wall paint combination. Make sure tiles also serve as a splash-back behind the sink/washbasin. And again, if you do not want to spend a lot of money but are looking for a facelift of your guest toilet, create an accent wall (maybe using wall paint, wallpaper or a kind of wall panel) which shall be the focal point. I hope I gave you some great guest toilet ideas and decor inspiration.
Why not read another one of my posts, for example the one about Staircases.
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