Stately Stone
What started out as a 1990s beige box was transformed into a dramatic beauty by Erin Coren and Lina Galvão of Curated Nest in Cos Cob. Imagined for a single dad who wanted a moody and masculine aesthetic with an emphasis on natural stone, the designers chose a custom fabricated sink using slabs of marble on all sides as well as mitered details. “This [design] allows the beauty of the stone to be the main focal point in the otherwise dark and moody small space,” says Galvão. The drama is amped up with charcoal paint, and board and batten detail on the focal wall adds texture all the way up to the high ceiling.
Bold and Beachy
This powder room was screaming for a refresh, says designer Erika Mercurio of Erika Mercurio Designs in Rye.
The goal was to lighten and brighten the space. “The family loves the beach and visits Montauk often, so we chose elements that were bold but also [lent] a cozy modern, beach vibe that reflects the personality of the family,” says Mercurio.
She installed a floating vanity that extends from wall-to-wall to make the room feel larger, and added a striking palm-inspired, textured grass cloth wallcovering to add dimension. It goes up to the ceiling (and covers it) to really make a dramatic statement.
Historic and Haute
A main goal for this powder room by architect Edward Ingersoll, RA of Ingersoll Architect in Larchmont, was to infuse it with lots of light. Ingersoll also wanted to stay true to the architecture of the Tuscan-style house. Carrara marble and brass details were selected to keep the style historic. Ingersoll chose wall sconces that create “a warm glow that’s pretty special.”
The wallpaper mural reflects the Tuscan countryside, complete with iconic Cypress trees. “Its sepia tone allowed a little leftover design space for some other fun bits like the shiny brass and chevron marble floor. All together it adds a lot of personality,” he says.
Big Ideas for Little Spaces
“A small budget can go a long way to make a bold statement,” explains designer Lina Galvão. Here are a few pro ideas to inject style into a powder room.
Add personality with decor that represents the family. “For instance, if the family is from a different state or country, there might be wallpaper that reflects them,” says Galvão.
Consider incorporating bold design choices in small spaces and stay away from boring white walls. “You get a lot of bang for your buck in these areas of your home,” says designer Erika Mercurio. Galvão adds that since guests primarily use powder rooms, fun design gets noticed.
Discover your creative side. “The powder room is an opportunity to jump a little out of your comfort zone and choose things you love that you want to try but do not want to commit to on a large scale,” says Mercurio. Some of her favorites include a “distinct paint color or wallpaper, show-stopping custom vanities in wood or stone that maximize the space, and gorgeous accessories, such as a soap and lotion set, a unique mirror, art, and hooks for towels.”
Lighting is very important. “Aside from the toilet, I actually think lighting is the most undervalued aspect of good [bathroom] design,” says architect Edward Ingersoll. “A unique pendant or wall sconce can enhance the whole feeling of the room.”
Don’t include every idea you have. “Go for one bold statement,” says Ingersoll. “Don’t cram every single design idea you’ve had into 30 square feet. Save something for the next project.”
Related: Curated Nest Embraces Livable, Luxurious Home Design in Westchester
