A Cottage Style Bathroom

There is something endearing about cottage style bathrooms. They look cleaner, they invite one to take a long, luxurious bath. The effect can be easy to achieve. Here are a few hints for decorating your bathroom, no matter the size.

1) First, paint the walls a light, airy color. Usually this means off-white, but don't feel you have to stop there. Any light pastel color will do, and these days the trends are even going to a more bold but comfortable color, such as slate blue. Just make sure the color doesn't diminish the size of your room, or "pull you down". I once painted my tiny upstairs bath a deep red, thinking it would look romantic for candlelight baths. It held in heat, sucked up the light, and was harsh on the eyes. Choose your color carefully.

2) Depending on the size of your bathroom, you may want to add a cabinet to hold your towels. This can be over the toilet or against a wall, and should be as light as color as you can choose, preferably white. If going for a pastel, try distressing the wood with sandpaper. Let the natural wood show through in places, providing a bit of a wabi-sabi effect. Contrary to the way it may sound, this distressed look can give the room a cozy feeling.

3) Use light towels, or if going for color, stick with pastels. Also, use light curtains in the windows. Either tailored or ruffled will work as long as the material moves with the wind. In many bedrooms, a rose or floral print is used to bring color into the room, and the same can be done with the curtains as long as the design is understated and not too busy.

4) If you have a large mirror, consider replacing it with a smaller, fancier one. Try an oval mirror with curly-que framework. Avoid anything that looks too heavy. Choosing a smaller mirror will free up wall space.

5) Accessories should compliment the décor. If you are going for a more weathered, beachside or country cottage motif old faded wooden signs are a great wall accent. Add photos of the beach, or a sketch of a meadow. Place a wooden planter in the corner with a live plant. Put a few towels on your shelves, then add a candle, a bowl of potpourri or flowers. Shells are also a popular addition.

6) Don't forget the shower curtain! Simply changing the curtain can change the entire feel of a bathroom. Go with a light floral print, or try white eyelet lace. Place comfortable bath mats in front of the shower and toilet.

Try to incorporate as much natural lighting as possible. Keep the window clean and topped with a light valance or blinds. Go for soft lighting. Energy saving bulbs can help to create a more natural glow, and are more reliable these days than they have been in the past.

Try these sites for more suggestions.
www.hgtv.com
www.bhg.com