Renovating a guest bathroom is very different design-wise from upgrading your master en suite bath or revamping your home’s primary bathroom. Here are five nuances that distinguish guest bathroom design from a standard bath.
1. A Question of Size
The guest bath is often the smallest bathroom in the house. This means implementing proven design tricks to get more out of less square feet:
- Install a pedestal or corner sink
- Float the vanity
- Hang an oversized mirror for the illusion of more depth
- Choose smaller fixtures
- Consider built-in storage
- Extend countertop over toilet (or hang standalone shelf)
Embrace the smaller space by enjoying greater freedom when it comes to budget. With less room to fill and fewer things to buy, it’s easier to rationalize splashing out on a truly extraordinary sink or top-of-the-line faucet or shower head.
2. A Different Set of Needs
In your master bath, it’s vital to create a soothing getaway for relaxing after a long day of work. Since guests likely won’t be taking the time for a long soak with candles and wine in the tub, there’s no need to invest in a spa-like retreat.
A three-quarter bath with stand-up shower is more than sufficient for most guests’ daily needs. It’s okay to go more efficient and less luxurious.
Along a similar vein, guests won’t have the same storage requirements for soaps, toiletries and other bath accessories. It’s also not necessary to set aside storage space for dedicated cleaning supplies.
3. Fun and Bold
Take a walk on the wild side when it comes to decorating. Large, daring prints that may be over-the-top in a larger space can help give your guest bath some personality.
Unique bathroom fixtures, one-of-a-kind furnishings, clashing styles—the sky’s the limit as guest bathrooms are exempt from “matching” with the rest of your home’s theme or style.
The room should be warm and welcoming, but don’t be afraid to go out on a limb in an effort to entertain visitors to your home.
4. A Note on Half Baths
Many homes are equipped with a half-bath for company near common entertaining areas.
Like a bathroom meant for overnight guests, “hallway” baths are granted much more leeway stylistically and are often considered “standalone” spaces in the home.
The smaller the space, the freer you are to inject bright colors and eclectic design pieces.
5. On a Tight Budget?
Take advantage of less stringent design rules by mixing and matching and shopping the sale rack at your local plumbing supply showroom. You can pick up discounted high-quality pieces that have been discontinued or returned by other customers.
