Before and After: I Didn’t Think Paneling Belonged in a Tiny Bathroom Until I Saw This Makeover
In my opinion, powder rooms are the hidden gem of any home. There’s just something about a petite space that allows people to explore their more adventurous side and go a bit bolder with their design.
When I see a powder room that could use a little TLC, I almost always start dreaming of the epic makeover that could ensue.
They Were Embarrassed for Guests to Use the Powder Room
Such was the case when I saw DIYer and home blogger Sana Faheem’s (@lively_lair) dull bathroom basement. Not only was the beige-covered space dim and drab, but it boasted plenty of past-their-prime features (think linoleum floors and a broken toilet) and didn’t function well for Sana and her family, who were embarrassed to even have guests use the space.
A New Vanity and Sconces Brought a Sense of Refinement to the Space
Determined to tackle the projects themselves — and keep the budget to a modest $5,000 — Sana and her husband began the makeover of their space, focusing on aesthetic changes that moved the needle, like a new floor, a rich ash wood vanity from Signature Hardware, gleaming sconces, and tailored accessories that bring a sense of refinement to the room.
The Sage Green Was a Perfect Addition to the 3/4 Paneling
For me, though, the biggest win in the petite powder came from the addition of the unique reeded paneling that added a much-needed dose of texture and color to the space. Coated in a soft sage green, it covers about two-thirds of the wall, which (surprisingly!) makes the basement bath live much larger than its tiny footprint.
It’s Always Worth the Effort to Add Personality to a Space
I love that it also gives the room a sense of history, allowing the bathroom to feel like it’s always looked that way, rather than having undergone a very recent renovation.
The lesson? Investing in a personality-packed design is always worth the effort, no matter how small a space you’re working with.
Inspired? Submit your own project here.
