Is your downstairs loo looking neglected? Now is the time to ditch the framed memorabilia and create a sophisticated space to wow your guests. With colour making a comeback, start with bold patterns and accessories. From funky wallpaper and feature lighting, express your creativity.
Emily-Grace Marlborough, a designer at the refurbishment company BTL Property, says: “A lot of clients choose wallpaper and large, wall-hung mirrors to create an individual space that contrasts with the rest of the house.” Marlborough cites a recent project in Fulham, west London, where cool grey paint has been used throughout the house — except in the downstairs loo, which features striking monochrome patterned wallpaper inspired by tree bark.
Helen Bygraves, a designer at Hill House Interiors, says: “Cloakrooms should create a sense of drama and have the wow factor. We never hesitate in suggesting fabulous stone or marble finishes, hand-finished wallpapers, quirky art, as well as all-important mood lighting.”
As a downstairs loo tends to be a small space, it can usually be renovated relatively easily and inexpensively, perhaps using small amounts of high-quality wallpaper or tiles that you may not be able to afford in a larger room. James Wells at Propia, a company specialising in maximising a property’s potential, says: “Remember the loo door is closed to the rest of the house, so continuity is not so important. The space is usually small enough that the wallpaper doesn’t become overpowering, and this provides an opportunity to experiment with something a bit different. Wallpaper that shows maps, yachting charts, faux-bookcases or even a Where’s Wally? pattern can look great.”
A black-and-white wallpaper with a quirky cow print was used in a downstairs loo in Earls Court, west London, by the designer Rebecca Wakefield at Banda Property. The wallpaper, by the Finnish designer Marimekko, is on the back wall and ceiling, while a full-width mirror on the opposite wall creates an illusion of space and depth. White metro tiles and two black pendant lights complete the contemporary finish. “The fun cow design creates an attractive visual and talking point for guests,” Wakefield says.
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If you want to evoke a traditional feel, Wells suggests a high-level cistern with chain and period-inspired accessories, such as a brass loo-roll holder. Tongue-and-groove wooden panels on the lower half of the wall also look smart and are a good alternative to wallpaper or tiles. Paint the wall above in a contrasting colour and hang vintage prints to complete the look.
Good lighting and large mirrors are vital for maximising a small space, and are also useful for female dinner-party guests who may wish to retouch their make-up. Michael Holmes, from the Homebuilding & Renovating Show, says: “Covering one wall in a 6mm made-to-measure mirror is a cost-effective way to make your space appear larger and lighter. A single pendant can be upgraded to a fitting with multidirectional spotlights.”
For more opulent lighting, be inspired by Bygraves’s own downstairs loo in Surrey, which features shimmer wall-bracket lights from Boyd, containing strands of Swarovski crystals against a mirrored backplate. “The lights give an iridescent effect, creating a serene sanctuary,” she says.
The interior designer Laura Hammett also used mirrors and lighting to clever effect in a downstairs loo in Belgravia, central London. A back-lit floor-to-ceiling mirror adds height and atmosphere to the room, while Harlequin textured bronze wallpaper and white-and-gold mosaic floor tiles provide more reflective surfaces. Motion sensor lighting means that guests don’t have to fumble for the switch. “The result is an unexpected bit of drama and glamour,” says Hammett.
Choose your accessories and toiletries carefully. For a soft and feminine look, opt for a potted orchid, fluffy hand towels and scented soap. Bygraves, who has Chanel perfume and a Jo Malone candle in her loo, says: “To achieve that ‘star dressing room’ ambience, have a choice of luxurious toiletries and perfumes on display. Your female guests will love it.”
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For something a little cheekier, consider how to keep your guests occupied. Wells says: “Ditch the magazines and old school photos and instead offer guests something a little more unexpected. How about a special loo guest book, a Rubik’s Cube or a sudoku book? You can even have fun with the lock, which can be designed to say anything from ‘engaged’ to something far ruder.”