5 ways to maximize your mini bathroom

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5 ways to maximize your mini bathroom

By emily.bailey

Friday, February 9, 2018

5 ways to maximize your mini bathroom

As we always say at Schlage, the details make the design, so missing out on styling a smaller rooms is a major misstep in our book.

 

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You’d think the smaller a room gets, the easier it would be to decorate. Not so – small spaces like half baths and storage closets often get the short end of the design stick while larger spaces like the living area and kitchen are paid special attention. As we always say at Schlage, the details make the design, so missing out on styling these smaller rooms is a major misstep in our book. Follow these five tips below, and the next time a guest enters your downstairs half-bath, they’ll emerge full of compliments about the stylish surprises they found.
 

1. Get decadent

Don’t be afraid to go for rich textures or wild prints. The small space will prevent them from overwhelming the design. Because you won’t need large reams of wallpaper or gigantic furniture to fill the space, you can also afford to spend a little more on the few items you’ll need. Think marble, damask, crystal and gold – the sky’s the limit!

2. Be smart about storage

If you make sure there’s plenty of storage space included in the design from the very beginning, you’ll avoid having to make changes later to keep the space livable. Choose sink cabinets with plenty of storage. Some cabinets have a lot of vertical space, but it’s wasted because there are no shelves to allow you to take advantage of it. Choose a cabinet that includes shelving or add your own afterward. If going for standalone shelving, scour the internet for pieces that add to the aesthetic but ensure you always have a place for towels and the like. Pieces that merge form and function are key.

3. Indulge your dark side

Unless you’re going for a very striking or unique design, dark wall colors are usually advised against – especially if you aren’t a professional designer. But did you know this is a rule best broken when it comes to very small rooms? Not only can you get away with painting a small bathroom or closet in the darkest color you can find, it’s actually a great way to add some variety to the styling of your home. And it looks amazing when paired with brighter accessories and furniture that pop against the dark background.

4. Fake it

Glass and mirrored surfaces are extremely popular in design right now, but they also have an excellent practical use: they create the illusion of more space. A glass enclosure around the shower, for example, is an excellent way to make your bathroom appear larger because you avoid breaking the space up into sections. Plus, it allows you to show off shower design features like custom tile designs, which are a great way to add a touch of your own unique personality.

5. Think small

Opt for smaller fixtures, especially lighting. An oversized crystal chandelier may look fabulous in the master bath but come across as overwhelming in a smaller guest bathroom. Consider small plumbing fixtures as well – the delicate look blends well with the intimacy of a small space. Consider Schlage Custom Door Hardware, which is a new line of premium designer hardware that offers a smaller, low profile trim and streamlined knobs and levers that fit in perfectly with smaller spaces. Schlage Custom locks are a great way to add a touch of bling and come in all kinds of architecturally-inspired styles perfect for your unique taste.

Have you used a small room to make a big design statement? Have any tips to share with fellow DIY’ers? Be sure to share them with us on Facebook or Instagram – and don’t forget pictures!