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10 Ways To Give Your Powder Room The Ultimate Makeover

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Transform Your Small Powder Room with These Tips

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!

powder room makeover ideas and tips

A powder room, also known as a half bathroom, is a tiny room 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.

10 ways to give your powder room the ultimate makeover
small powder room makeover
powder room with shiplap walls

This post contains affiliate links for your convenience. For more information, see my disclosures here.

10 Tips for a Stylish and Functional Small Powder Room Makeover

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. 

half bath makeover

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. 

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 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. 

wall molding in powder bathroom

In a small powder room, adding wall molding can help to visually break up the space and add interest to the walls.  

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

half wall shiplap in bathroom

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

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.

trim on window in half bath

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 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 space in our home. 

small space powder room

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to add some character to your powder bathroom, consider updating the window trim. It’s a small touch 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 update a powder room is by installing a new light fixture

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.

new light fixture in powder bathroom

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. 

modern light fixture
light fixture above mirror

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.

updated mirror in powder room

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.

mixed metal finishes in powder room

For our powder room makeover, I replaced the basic square mirror with a beautiful new round brass mirror.

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. 

white hand towel on black hook in bathroom

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 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. 

pedestal sink powder room

Because we were on a small budget, we decided to keep the sink and faucet and instead update other elements of the room. 

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

modern matte black towel hook

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

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

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 space you have.

If you don’t have a vanity with storage available, a basket can be used to keep your powder room organized. 

powder room remodel

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. 

storage container for powder room extra toilet paper

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. 

decorative shelves in powder room
shelf decor for half bathroom
powder room decor

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.

focal point wall shelves in powder room

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.

wall shelves for bathroom above toilet

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

black accent wall shelves in powder room
open shelves in powder bathroom

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.

folded towels on shelf in guest bathroom

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. 

faux leather tissue box cover

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. 

aesthetic tissue box cover

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.

tiny powder room decor

Hang Some Hand Towels

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

powder bathroom makeover

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. 

artwork on wall in guest bath

Whether it’s a few framed art prints on a blank wall, 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. 

botanical art prints in white frame on bathroom wall

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.

Christmas printable art in frame on shelves in bathroom

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 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. 

small bathroom makeover

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. 

shelf storage space for powder room decor

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

pedestal sink with soap dish and soap dispenser

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.

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.

before and after 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.

small powder room makeover
powder room ideas

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!

powder room decor shelves

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the point of a powder room or half 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 the living room, 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

Ideas for a Powder Room Makeover

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41 Comments

  1. You guys knocked it out of the park!! I love the entire room from the towels to the shiplap to that beautiful mirror!! It turned out beautifully! What is next? [You’d be forgiven for simply taking a breather 😉 ]

    1. Christene Holder says:

      Thanks Brittany! It makes me so happy that other people love it just as much as I do. And I’m so glad that it’s all finished. What’s next? Well…. I think we are going to shift the focus to our master bedroom. We had all sorts of plans to do that room first, but then we kind of pushed it to the side. It’s in need of some little updates. So glad to have you here on the blog, friend! 🙂

      >> Christene

  2. Kathleen Doyle says:

    Love the light fixture and I am going to order it for my bathroom make over. Where did you get the faucet?

    1. Christene Holder says:

      Thanks Kathleen! We love the light fixture too 🙂
      The faucet is the one that “came with the house.” We have a community builder home so I’m not really sure what the faucet brand is. Sorry about that.

      >> Christene

  3. Did you get the espresso shelving unit and paint the shelves? Amazon seems to only have white on white and dark on dark, but I really like your setup.

    1. Christene Holder says:

      Hi Allison,

      Unfortunately, the white shelves that I originally bought are no longer available for purchase. I’ve contacted the manufacturer and they don’t make them in that color combination anymore :(.
      You can get the same look by purchasing the all-white shelves and spray painting the hardware. I hope this helps!

      >> Christene

      1. Thank you for responding. I thought to do that, but I was able to find the combination I wanted from another manufacturer. I’m really excited to get it ????

      2. Hi Christene
        Do you think painting the brown shelves white would work? Or is it you get a better finish spray painting hardware vs painting shelves?
        Thanks
        Donna

        1. Christene Holder says:

          Hi Donna,

          I haven’t actually tried these methods, but I think that spray painting the hardware would be a little bit easier. You could definitely repaint the shelves. But I think they would probably come with a glossy finish coat (like most furniture) that you would need to sand down and do some prep work to first before you could paint. It’s just a little more involved. Either way should get you the same “look.”

          >> Christene

  4. Love the shiplap! How high up did you go with it? We are currently building and doing something similar but I’m struggling with the height.

    Thanks!

    1. Christene Holder says:

      Hi Angela, thanks so much! We did 4’ high shiplap on 9’ walls. I would avoid doing exactly half of the walls. So either stay on the lower third or the upper third 🙂

      >> Christene

      1. Christene Holder says:

        Hi Ashley – the paint is Hazy Stratus by Valspar

  5. What color paint is the grey?

    1. Christene Holder says:

      Hi Caitlin,

      The color is Hazy Stratus by Valspar.

      >> Christene

  6. Do you know the make/color of the floors? They look almost cherry in the picture. Thanks

    1. Christene Holder says:

      Hi Steve, They are actually Engineered Hardwood floors. The exact color and make is Rural Living Hickory Deep Java 5″ by Armstrong Flooring.

      >> Christene

  7. Hi Christene,

    I am attempting to redo my guest bathroom now and am struggling to decorate the new shelf above the toilet. Any suggestions on this?

    Thank you!

  8. Where did you get the bathroom shelf!? I love it!!

    1. Christene Holder says:

      Hey Erin – It’s actually from Amazon. There’s a link in the post. The exact color scheme doesn’t seem to be available anymore but I linked to a similar one.

      >> Christene

  9. Hiiii! Love your bathroom makeover. I just ordered the shelf on amazon to put in my bathroom, cannot wait to spruce it up! I LOVE that clear slanted vase to put some decor in. I saw a link to dollar tree but it’s not the same one? Wondering where I can find the same jar. I’m obsessed!

    1. Christene Holder says:

      Hey Ashlyn – thanks so much! Bummer that Dollar Tree doesn’t have it anymore. I would say look at stores like Homegoods. Or even search on Amazon for clear angled vase maybe.

      Hope this helps.
      >> Christene

  10. We are doing hazy stratus in our main bathroom and also having an accent wall that is wood, this may be a crazy question, but what white did you use in the lower wall? It looks amazing!

    1. Thank you! So actually, it is just white trim paint that we got with our house as touch up paint. They left us a lot of paint. We have done more painting jobs with white like board and batten. We always just buy the pure white trim paint in semi-gloss. Hope this helps.

  11. Hi Christine,
    Beautiful! I have a question on the shiplap. Did you stagger the boards? I can’t tell in the photo. Thank you! Karen

    1. I did not stagger the boards. I have a small enough room that I had one piece cut to the size of each wall.

  12. Karen Kile says:

    What did you use to cap the top of the Shiplap? (measurements?

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