Decorating a Bathroom in the Cottage Style

Cottage style decorating is fun and easy to do. If you have never done a room in a cottage style, you are definitely in for a treat. And what better place to have such a light and carefree style as in the bathroom?

Bathrooms today are more than just functional; indeed, they are as important when it comes to decorating as any other room. So go ahead and create a cottage style bathroom that not only will you love, but family and visitors will admire also.

The first decorating decision in any room, after the style, is the color. If you browse through pictures of cottage style decorating, you will quickly realize that white is the predominant color used. Most people think of white as the absence of color, but in reality white is only a canvas for other splashes of color. While the white dominates the room, it doesn't overpower you because your eyes are drawn to the other colors. So unless you are dead set against white walls, I highly recommend starting off with the fresh and pure look of white.

Choose fabrics for your shower curtain and window treatments in a light, breezy material. Cotton and linen are two favorites for cottage style curtains. Pale florals, stripes and solid pastel colors give the impression of sunshiny days. If you don't like curtains for your windows, choose white blinds or shutters.

Choose your bathroom rugs and mats in a durable, yet light material. This is one area where you can pick a pale shade to use as your accent color. If you are using floral designed curtains, then pick a color from the curtains and use it as your accent. For example, if the floral design has yellow, pick up on the yellow by using solid yellow for the rugs and towels. The same is true with the opposite. If you are using a solid color for your curtains, try mixing in a floral and/or striped design for your rugs and towels.

If you have room for a storage cupboard, paint it a clean white. Use glass doors or leave the doors off on the top part of the cabinet. Display colorful towels, artwork, and baskets in the open or see through top and keep the clutter items behind the bottom solid doors. To maximize space, use hooks on the backs of the cabinet or vanity doors to hang items used most often, such as hair dryers and curling irons. Keep your makeup in a basket for easy access. When you are ready to begin your morning ritual, simply pull the whole basket out. Just don't forget to put it back when finished. Remember, a cluttered room looks messy.

If your bathroom is large enough, bring in some wicker accent pieces. A small wicker table and chair can be a great place to sit and relax while drying your hair or applying your makeup. Bring a cup of coffee in with you. The more comfortable your bathroom feels, the less rushed and anxious you will be every morning as you prepare to face another busy day.

Flowers are a big part of cottage style decorating. Whether it is in the designs of the curtains or towels, you should play the floral idea up by having some flowers on display in the room. Fresh flowers are the best, but in all honesty, who has the time to cut fresh flowers every day or two? You can, however, use live plants to help keep that cottage style feel. Plants are good for you. Every home should have live plants.

The last necessary item for a cottage style bathroom is candles, of course. No bathroom would be complete without the warmth and fragrance of candles. There is nothing quite as wonderful as relaxing in a tub surrounded by candles warming the area and giving off an enticing scent. In fact, you may get so relaxed you don't want to leave your cottage style bathroom.