subject: Make Your Small Powder Room Bold And Beautiful [print this page] For many rooms in the house, classic and conservative is the way to go when redecorating. For remodeling your Des Moines bathroom, the theory is that colored fixtures and unusual tile colors may go out of vogue and make the room look old-fashioned in just a few years. For remodeling your "powder room" or half bath though, the rules go out the window as design is often bold and colorful, much like its origins.
Two hundred years ago, when people wore powdered wigs, they slipped into a small powder room to have the powder reapplied. Long after powdered wigs were passe, the term stuck to describe the bathroom, as referring to bodily functions in the Victorian was taboo. Ladies excused themselves from dinner to "go powder their noses." Currently, when people share often too much personal information, the term is still in use to refer to a half bath that includes a toilet and sink.
The idea of having a small bathroom for visitors is popular as it keeps guests out of the main living quarters. In older homes with only one bath on the upper level, adding a powder room or half bath to the first floor or basement can make a home more convenient and livable. This is often done by converting a closet or partitioning a part of an existing room, adding plumbing, and installing the sink and toilet.Though the room may averages only 4'x 5', you can make an impact with wall covering, flooring, faucets, fixtures, mirrors,and decor.
Because the room is small, careful design is important to make sure that there is enough room and that fixtures are smartly placed.While there is not much variation in toilet size, the sink can be wall mounted or pedestal-style to save room. Powder rooms usually don't have much storage, but they should have a space for someone to set down a purse or bag, so a small vanity is nice touch. Doors should open outward or should be pocket style to allow easy access. You should place towel racks and toilet paper holders so they aren't in the way when entering or exiting the room.
Since the room is small, you can use costly materials you might not be able to afford for larger areas, just as bamboo flooring or granite or quartz for countertops. You can also use bright colors, deep hues, or heavily patterned or textured wallpaper that would be "too much" for a larger room. If the wall covering makes the room too dark, you can fix that with good lighting, dimmers on the lights, and mirrors.Even though you can step outside the box in planning this room, the overall design should match the style of your home.
Remodeling your powder room might make a good do-it-yourself project. If you are starting from scratch, you may need some help with the plumbing or framing, but you may want to try your skills on the rest of it. Since the job involves design, tiling, carpentry, and electrical work, you may decide that calling in a contractor to handle your Des Moines bathroom remodel is still a smart way to do it.
