The typical advice for decorating any small room is to choose lighter colours to make the space feel bigger. This is because white, cream, and pastel shades reflect light and make the walls appear farther apart.

However, we believe that every room should reflect your personal taste, and small spaces shouldn't be constrained by decorating ‘rules’. It’s time to forget the ‘do’s and don’ts’ and choose colours, patterns, and styles you love.

How Colour Transformed This Downstairs Toilet

This small downstairs toilet was effortlessly transformed with MDF tongue-and-groove panelling. Rich brown paint and wall lighting turned it into a cosier, more inviting space with character.

Additional styling was kept to a minimum, with an arched mirror that brings the room together while also being practical, alongside a deep red diffuser that complements the tiles around the sink and the flooring. Ultimately, the room has a luxurious, vintage Victorian finish, with a darker, richer colour palette that creates a warm and sophisticated feel.

Before:

After:

STRIVO Tongue and Groove MDF Wall Panel Beaded - 811 x 606mm

Unexpected Styling

Fun wall art, quirky decorative items, or statement lighting can instantly take a room from the mundane to the exciting. Of course, the room should be fit for purpose, but that doesn’t mean it needs to lack the same level of personality and attention to detail as other rooms throughout a home.

Decorative Items

Space may be sparse, but a floating shelf or window ledge can be styled with decorative items such as candles, a diffuser, or plants. Small touches can complement the rest of the room without overpowering it or causing clutter.

STRIVO Tongue and Groove MDF Wall Panel Beaded - 2440 x 600mm

Wall Art

To save space, take to the walls and add artwork. Choose prints that capture your interests or hobbies, like a country you’ve recently visited, framed Polaroids, or simply something you find fun.

Lighting

Instead of white lighting and spotlights, consider warm lighting and an unexpected style, like a chandelier or colourful porcelain pendant light. Not every bathroom needs to feel like it has spotlights.

Patterns

Forget the misconception that small rooms can’t carry a bold pattern. Introduce a statement pattern, whether it’s on the walls, floors, towels, or more subtle items. There are so many styles to choose from to complement your personal taste, whether it’s geometric, animal print, abstract, or Art Deco.

Panels

Wall panels are a simple yet effective way to transform a small room. Quick and easy to install, MDF tongue-and-groove panels have become increasingly popular in downstairs toilets. Not only will they add texture to plain walls, but they can also be painted to give a room an entirely new look.

Feeling inspired? Discover our range of panelling and give a small space a new look.