Toothbrush, hair brush, shampoo and gel. Razor, mascara, lashcurler or aftershave. Choose your weapon - It's the arsenal we use to groom ourselves on a daily basis.

But when your bathroom is also the one your guests use, do you really want them to see all this paraphernalia?

Anyone who lives in a small house or apartment where there is only one bathroom is familiar with this Design Dilemma.

How do you design a bathroom that's both functional for you and an attractive powder room for guests? How do you keep the stuff you need conveniently accessible yet out of view?

First, look at the room objectively, as though you're a visitor. Stand in the doorway. What do you see? A toothbrush, bottles of lotions, jars of creams, hygiene products? If so, then clear all the surfaces of everything with a label. (Later we'll discuss where to put everything, but for now take it out.)

Next, look at the room itself. Without considering a complete remodel, what can be done to transform this space into a room that's either spacious or cozy, depending on your style and preference? And, how can this be done with just paint or wallpaper, fabric, new lighting and nice accessories?

Start with a color palette you like. Whatever your preference, be consistent.

SHOWER CURTAIN SERVES PURPOSE

The shower curtain not only keeps water off the floor but is a dominant visual element that helps create a designed "look" to your bathroom. Ready- made shower curtains don't have to be just white fabric or clear plastic hanging from the rod. They're available in a myriad of patterns, colors and styles and can be found in stores that specialize in bed, bath and household items.

If you're adventurous, you can have a shower curtain custom made. More options become available with this approach, but remember that you'll need a waterproof membrane between the water and fabric.

Either way, keep in mind that this design element will visually fill the room, so choose wisely.

Once you've selected the fabric, the walls come next. Choose a color that is either dominant in the fabric or complements it so the room has a cohesive appearance and shows intent.

Paint is an easy way to go but wallpaper is another option. Often fabrics and wallpapers are coordinated so let the experts in fabric or wallpaper stores guide you in your selection.

Don't forget about border papers to crown the walls and tie everything together. And, it can be used as a finishing touch even if you're only painting the walls.

Lighting sets the tone of any room but is especially important in the bathroom. Because it's difficult to floss your teeth in a room that's as dark as a cave, good lighting is necessary to help you see details well. And it also needs to be flattering because no one is going to tell you how great you look until you feel it first.

Ideally, there should be several sources of light in the bathroom. A good overhead light, whether recessed or hanging, can also be a lovely fixture. Choose one that casts the broadest light with maximum wattage. Even a fluorescent fixture can cast an enhancing light if you select a wide-spectrum, color-balanced tube that creates a warm effect.

This bathroom achieves the balance between function and appealing decor.

MAKE SURE LIGHT IS BALANCED

Next is the task lighting -- that which illuminates your face when you're doing whatever it is you do to make yourself presentable. In a perfect world this light should be balanced from side to side and not cast harsh shadows. Putting lights on both sides of the mirror would be the ideal solution.

But if this isn't feasible, one fixture with several bulbs placed above the mirror will do the trick. Make sure the bulbs are the kind that have good wattage and shed a softer type of illumination.

Lastly, when guests use this bathroom they typically need only moderate light. Use a dimmer switch so someone can adjust the light to suit the need.

Pretty, scented candles placed on the counter or shelf also help create the atmosphere appropriate for the powder room, so have several on hand.

Complementary window treatments and striking, well-placed pieces of art finish the decorative redesign. Don't overlook the importance of pretty towels neatly folded over a towel bar. Choose a color or two that coordinate with your shower curtain and walls.

NOW CONSIDER YOUR GUESTS

Now that your bathroom is more attractive it's time to figure out where to put all those bottles of personal care products that you took out earlier.

Baskets and assorted boxes (with lids, please) become a wonderful option for items that need to be left on the counter for easy access. Mix them up, stack them together or put them in a shelving unit. Make an arrangement so they become part of the room's decor while still being functional.

Linen and household stores have a wide selection of coordinated bathroom items for tissue boxes, toothbrushes and soaps, so there's lots to choose from to add the finishing functional touches.

The place to splurge for your guests is in the final details: a small plant or cut flowers in a vase, a bowl of potpourri and fragrant hand soap.

Plan on enjoying your newly decorated bathroom and see what a difference it makes to both you and your guests.

 

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