Are you a fan of wallpaper? I am! So are many of my clients. Wallpapers can add that additional pattern, texture and depth. I’m getting ready to paper a historic home’s living room and study in two iconic 19th century William Morris designs. Hope to share soon.If you’re on the fence about wallpapering, why not try it in a guestroom, office or powder room? These rooms allow you to experiment in a less prominent setting and/or on a smaller scale. If the paper turns out to be a mistake, it can always be removed.

Recently, I helped my friend (and client) Ceane renovate her powder room, which now features a stunning wallpaper. First, take a look at the before photos:

Measuring
63″ x 45″, the room is small but not tiny. Let’s
start with the positives. There is a good-sized window that brings in
natural light as well as fresh air. The existing shutters are handsome
and easy to maneuver for privacy. Plus, the 9′ ceiling adds volume to what could be a claustrophobic space.Now
for the issues. The oversized sink basin is a bit deep; the door barely
clears. Stylistically, the fluted pedestal base is too formal for this
vintage farmhouse. Next, notice how the chrome light fixture clashes
with the gold mirror. The light fixture is also mounted too low. And
that Colonial-ish pineapple wallpaper? Too dated for Ceane’s young
family! Oh, a piece of it is missing along with the rest of the toilet paper holder
🙁 Time for a renovation!

Here is the newly renovated powder room featuring a Galbraith and Paul Lotus wallpaper. The pattern is a fresh interpretation of classic paisleys. By the way, a large pattern can make a small space feel more interesting, so don’t be afraid to experiment with scale. An antique silver gilt mirror from my shop fits perfectly within the narrow wall space, and its cool tone looks striking against the colors. A small pedestal sink with canted corners is reminiscent of bathroom furnishings from the early 20th century. Its backsplash is a bonus; practical for Ceane’s three young children. The toilet is from the same collection. For the new light, I selected a satin nickel fixture with cool glass shades that have a vintage vibe. Note the light is mounted much higher than the old one. With such a tall ceiling, why hug the mirror? Now there is room for both pieces to breathe.

Hope you enjoyed this project. Sources:

-GALBRAITH AND PAUL LOTUS SMOKE WALLPAPER
-TONE ON TONE ANTIQUE FRENCH MIRROR
-SCHOOLHOUSE ELECTRIC DAVIS DOUBLE SCONCE
-PORCHER SINK AND TOILET
-BENJAMIN MOORE SIMPLY WHITE ON TRIM
-BENJAMIN MOORE BLACK PM-9 HIGH GLOSS ON DOOR
-UNION HARDWARE (BETHESDA, MD) FAUCET SET AND TOILET PAPER HOLDER

See more of Ceane’s beautiful home here and here. A BIG thanks to Ceane!!

Cheers,
Loi

PS – For more, please check out my INSTAGRAM