Double the style of Your Half Bath

Necessary? Yes. Utilitarian? Absolutely not. Consider your dream home’s powder room as the perfect stage for your style. Make it really rustic, gloriously retro, over-the-top glamorous or lightly whimsical. Use these tips to make your powder room a showstopper.

• All is vanity. Choose a vanity that suits your style, from rugged to contemporary, antique to mod. Don’t limit your search: Pieces like trunks, vintage chests or even industrial work tables can be repurposed to accommodate a sink and plumbing.
• Put it on a pedestal. Don’t need the storage or counter space a vanity can provide? Pick a pedestal sink instead. A wide range of sinks are available to help you express your style, whether it’s classic, contemporary or something in between. Because it takes up very little floor space, a pedestal sink can make a small powder room appear larger.
• Reflect your personality. Unless you truly must have the storage space of a traditional medicine cabinet, look for a distinctive mirror to set the tone.
• Light the way. In such a small space, light fixtures shine. You can install a ceiling fixture — like a sparkling chandelier — but be sure to plan for lighting around the mirror. Sconces on either side provide even light.
• Wall to wall. Don’t be shy: Bold colors work in these small rooms where you and your guests won’t spend a lot of time.
• Accessorize. Pick one “conversation starter” to display in your powder room: art you love, a favorite photo or a small collection.