10 Ways To Give Your Powder Room The Ultimate Makeover

Modern Powder Room Ideas

Looking to give your powder room a fresh and updated look? It’s time to give this small space in your home the makeover it deserves!

A powder room, also known as a half bathroom, is one of the smaller spaces that often gets overlooked when it comes to home decor. 

It can be a challenge to make the most of this small space. 

The powder room in our home is the main guest bathroom. So it was important for me to make this space both beautiful and functional. 

When we first moved in, it was looking pretty boring and basic. But with some design planning and simple DIY projects, we were able to transform it into a beautiful and functional space that we love. 

By making a few simple updates, you can turn your small powder room into a stylish and welcoming space for you and your guests. This is a great place to start if you want to give your home a little makeover.

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10 Tips for a Stylish and Functional Small Powder Room Makeover

Here are some of the best small powder room ideas you can use in your home to make the most of this space. 

1. Start with a Fresh Coat of Paint

This is a quick and easy way to completely transform the look of your powder room. 

Updating the paint in a room can immediately give the space a new feel.

In small powder rooms, it’s important to make the most of any natural light. Consider choosing paint colors that are light and neutral to reflect the light and make the space feel larger. 

You can also go with a bold color and create a color-drenched feel. When color-drenching a space like a powder room, you might also want to paint the inside of the powder bath door. This will give the entire space a more updated look. 

For our powder room makeover, we chose to paint the walls a light gray color. The specific paint color we used is Valspar Hazy Stratus. 

We decided to go a bit darker with the paint color to create a contrast with the shiplap we planned to add. 

The result is a fresh and modern look that really updates the space from how it looked when we moved in. Paint can really make a huge impact and is the perfect place to start when refreshing a room. 

Related: Our Home Paint Colors

2. Add Visual Interest with Shiplap or Wall Molding

One way to make a big impact in a small space is by adding visual interest with wall molding or an accent wall.

Adding great design details to your space through trim work can really help to transform a smaller room. Consider trim options like shiplap, board and batten, beadboard, or picture frame molding. 

In a small powder room, adding wall molding can help to visually break up the space and add interest to the walls. You can create a bold statement depending on the color you choose for your wall modling. 

The half wall of shiplap in our small bathroom makeover has made a huge difference in the overall brightness of the space. 

The white paint helps to reflect the light, and the combination of the white shiplap and light gray walls creates a fresh, clean look. We love the transformation!

Another option for adding some interest to the walls is using wallpaper. There are lots of beautiful bathrooms with wallpaper. Some have bold patterns while others have softer choices like floral wallpaper.

Related: DIY Shiplap Wall

3. Add Trim to the Window

Another way to add character and visual interest to a small bathroom is by updating the window trim.

If your powder room has a window, adding some chunky trim around it can help to make it stand out and feel more custom.

When we moved into our townhome, none of the windows had trim besides a basic builder-grade window sill. We’ve been slowly updating the windows in the larger rooms and adding a simple craftsman style trim to each of our room makeovers.

This window trim was a simple and easy DIY project that really helped to elevate this tiny bathroom in our home. 

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to add some character to your powder bathroom, consider updating the window trim. It’s one of those small changes that can make a big impact.

Related: DIY Minimalist Modern Interior Window Trim

4. Install a New Light Fixture

One of the simplest ways to give a powder room a little refresh is by installing new vanity lights. 

If you’re still using the builder-grade lighting that came with the room, replacing it with a more updated and modern fixture can make a big difference in the overall look and feel of the space.

The main decorative light fixture in a bathroom is typically the one above the mirror. Your bathroom may also have wall sconces, which can add some ambiance to the space.

There are so many options when it comes to light fixtures, so you’re sure to find something that fits your home’s style and your budget. 

In our powder room, I decided to replace the old light fixture with a more modern and industrial wall fixture. I love the simple shape of the metal shades and I think it helps to add some more character to the space.

5. Update the Bathroom Mirror

Another easy way to update the look of your powder room is by replacing the builder-grade mirror. A new, updated mirror can instantly change the look of the space and is one of those simple design elements that can make a big difference. 

In a small space like a bathroom, a mirror not only serves a functional purpose, but can also help to create the illusion of more space.

There are many different styles and shapes of mirrors to choose from. The mirror is more of a standalone design piece, so you have the opportunity to get creative with the style and finish.

You don’t have to match the mirror to the rest of the hardware in your bathroom.

Instead, consider creating balance and contrast by mixing both modern and traditional elements in your space. This can add some visual interest and help to create a cohesive and stylish look in your powder room.

For our powder room makeover, I replaced the basic square mirror with a beautiful new round mirror. This adds brass fixtures to the space and brings in another color scheme.

I love the sleek, gold finish frame and the space contrasts well with all of the clean lines in this space. 

6. Update the Bathroom Hardware

Updating the hardware in a tiny powder room, or any room for that matter, is a quick and easy way to give the space a fresh, new look. 

There are many different types of hardware that you can choose from, including cabinet handles, drawer pulls, faucets, toilet paper holder, towel bars, and towel rings or hooks. 

You can replace as many or as little as you want to give your space a new look. 

Don’t be afraid to mix and match metal finishes in each space. Mixing and matching different metal finishes can add a more layered feeling to a space. 

A good rule of thumb is to mix no more than two different finishes. Don’t be afraid to get out of your comfort zone and play around with different combinations to find the perfect look for your powder room.

In our powder room, we already had a pedestal sink, which saves space compared to a traditional vanity cabinet. 

Because we were on a small budget, we decided to keep the sink and faucet and instead update other elements of the room. But if you had a larger budget, consider choosing a unique vanity to add some more interest to your bathroom. 

To give the space an update, removed the towel bar and replaced it with a modern, matte black towel hook. 

If you decide to install a cabinet or new vanity in your powder room, don’t forget to add pretty cabinet hardware and a new faucet to really elevate the powder room space. 

Updating the hardware is an affordable and easy way to add style to a powder room.

Related: The Best Modern Cabinet Hardware Options

7. Create Storage in a Small Powder Room

Creating storage in a small powder room can be a challenge, but there are a few things you can do to make the most of the square footage you have.

A vanity cabinet is the ideal place for storage in a bathroom. But, if you don’t have a vanity with storage available, a basket can be used to keep your powder room organized. 

Baskets and bins are a great way to organize small items in a powder room. You can use them to store things like toilet paper, towels, and other toiletries for your guests.

When you have a designated spot for essential items, it’s easier to keep your powder room looking clean and organized. 

Baskets and bins can also work as decorative items in the room. You can choose ones in a variety of colors, styles, and materials to match the decor of your powder room.

To store all of the extra toilet paper rolls in our powder room, I found this beautiful natural wood crate. The texture and color of the light wood adds warmth and interest to this space.

8. Add Decorative Shelves

Another way to add more storage to a small room is by utilizing the wall space.

Shelves can be great things to add additional storage and to display decorative objects. 

To fill the open wall space above the toilet in our powder room, I decided to add a pretty white and black shelving unit.

Not only does it help to fill the empty wall, but it also provides additional space for me to display decor items.

Unfortunately, the white shelves that I originally purchased are no longer available. I reached out to the manufacturer, but they are no longer making them in that color combination.

However, you can still achieve a similar look by purchasing all-white shelves and spray painting the hardware black.

I also found a very similar looking shelving unit, which will give you the same look as the shelves in our powder room.

Related: How to Style Shelves

To create a cohesive and balanced look on our open shelving, I mixed practical storage items like a wooden box and a glass jar of cotton swabs with decorative accents like greenery and gold decorative objects. 

I also made sure to leave some space on the top shelf for storing extra hand towels. This not only adds softness through the texture of the fabric, but also makes it convenient for guests to find additional towels if needed.

9. Make Practical Pieces More Aesthetic

Bathrooms often have a lot of practical items that are necessary for daily use, but may not always be the most visually appealing. 

One way to address this issue is to use decorative covers or holders to conceal practical items. 

Using a tissue box cover is a simple way to make a practical item, such as a tissue box, more aesthetically pleasing. 

I love the look of these faux leather tissue box covers. Leather is another type of material that can add visual interest and create a layered look in your space. 

You can choose a color that complements the design of your bathroom. And it’s a great choice for concealing a not so attractive tissue box. 

10. Decorate and Accessories with Pretty Decor Pieces

Finally, add some finishing touches to your powder room with accessories such as towels, soap dispensers, and artwork. Choose pieces that reflect your personal style and tie the room together.

Hang Some Hand Towels

Hanging a pretty hand towel can be a perfect opportunity and practical way to add decor to your half bath. 

Choose a style that is cohesive with the room and place it in an easy to access spot. That way your guests can easily grab it after they wash their hands. 

I personally think you can never go wrong with simple, crisp white towels. It’s a classic and timeless choice that will fit with any style home decor. 

Hang Pretty Artwork or Photos

To add some personality into your space, try adding artwork or photos. 

Whether it’s a few framed art prints on a good wall space, a gallery wall, or smaller pieces styled on shelves or next to the sink, adding art and photos is a simple way to make your space feel more personal and complete. 

I like to switch out and refresh my artwork seasonally. 

Not only is it a budget-friendly way to switch up your decor, but it’s also an easy way to give your home a completely new look without a lot of effort.

I find prints on Etsy and print them out on my home printer. It only costs a few dollars, but you can get a completely different look in your home for cheap. 

Add A Small Rug

Adding a small rug to a powder room can be a simple and effective way to add some more layers and a little bit of extra comfort to your powder room. 

We added a beautiful, vintage blue rug in front of the sink to help ground the space and create a modern classic look. 

The rug’s traditional style is the perfect contrast to some of the more modern elements in this bathroom.

Adding a small rug to your powder room is a simple way to add some coziness and help define the space.

Accessorize with Decor and Small Accents

Finally, adding some small accents and decor pieces to your powder room can really tie the whole space together and make the entire room feel finished. 

Look for simple pieces such as pretty soap dispensers, small trays to hold bar soaps, a faux plant or flowers, and candles. 

When accessorizing a powder room, it’s important to keep the space clutter-free and to choose items that are functional as well as decorative.

A few well-placed accents can go a long way in creating a cohesive and inviting look in your powder room. Try looking for pieces that fall in the same color palette as your space to keep your simple powder room consistent.

Shop all of the Powder Room Decor Sources

Click on any of the images below to shop the powder room makeover and decor.

Final Reveal of the Powder Room

Here’s a look at the before and after of our powder room makeover.

I am so happy with how the powder room turned out! The finishes and decorations create a fresh and modern space that’s even better than I imagined.

It’s great to finally have a finished bathroom on the main level – it really makes the main living areas feel much more cohesive. 

Now, instead of seeing a dull yellow room, we’ve got this gorgeous space. I hope you love it just as much as I do!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the point of a powder room, half bath, or hall bath?

A powder room, also known as a half bathroom or guest bathroom, is a small bathroom that is typically located on the main floor of a home and is used by guests and other visitors. 

The main purpose of a powder room is to provide a convenient place for people to use the toilet and wash their hands when they are visiting.

Powder rooms are often located near common areas of the home, such as living rooms, a family room, the dining room, or kitchen, so that guests don’t have to go to a more private area of the home to use the full bathroom.

What items go in a powder room?

Powder rooms are typically smaller bathrooms in the home with limited amounts of storage space. 

But it’s helpful to keep essential items stocked and ready for guests when they need to use the half bathroom.

Here are a few other items that I like to keep in a powder room:

• Hand Soap
• Hand Towels
• A Trash Can
• Extra Toilet Paper
• Tissues
• Feminine Products
• Candle

Where does the toilet paper go in the powder room?

If you have a storage vanity in your powder room, you can store extra toilet paper in that cabinet. 

In our current home, we only have a pedestal sink, so I store extra toilet paper in a decorative bin next to the sink. You can also look for lidded baskets for storing extra toilet paper.

I’ve also seen powder rooms where the extra toilet paper is stored in a small basket on top of the toilet tank. 

More Powder Room Ideas

• Room Makeover: Powder Room Design Plan
• DIY Shiplap Wall
• DIY Minimalist Modern Interior Window Trim
• How to Style Shelves

Powder Room Design Ideas