Disclosure: This is not a compensated or sponsored post. I was provided the product for review purposes only. All opinions expressed here are my own.
The holidays are approaching and we are all getting ready for family and friends to return to our home. One question that readers have been asking me is how can I update my guest bathroom.
Bathrooms are much more than just a room to take care of your personal hygiene. It can be a relaxing escape from the world, or an area that you can enjoy spending time in. When renovating your bathroom, there are many decision that you need to make in order for the space to be functional and serene.
There are a million decisions from what type of mirror you would like to have on the wall or what style grout to use on your bathroom. Today we are going to focus on adding a medicine cabinet to change the look of your bathroom; while reflecting your taste and personality.
No matter if you’re talking about a half bath or the bathroom in a master suite, questions about bathroom storage are bound to come up in bathroom design. From your everyday items such as a toothbrush and toothpaste to daily medications, you don’t want to keep everything on your counters, or your bathroom will feel cluttered. You need a way to keep items out of sight — but still have them easily accessible. That’s where a medicine cabinet and other storage options come into play. With a medicine cabinet, you have a convenient, concealed area to stash products you use regularly.
When you are having guests staying for the holidays storage in the bathrooms can’t be overstated. It’s not just about looking good and feeling functional. It is also making your bathroom feel like a home away from home for your guests.
I have been working on my bathroom upgrade for a year. The room looked great, but it was missing that piece to pull everything together, and that was a medicine cabinet. I have learned in the past that you can’t just go out and buy one, you have to take into account the size of the room, the space you have on wall, and how it will be incorporated into the overall look of the bathroom.
When I have questions about what to look for, I turn to my friends at Lowe’s for guidance. In talking to my Lowe’s representatives, they first asked me about my needs and why I wanted to install a medicine cabinet. My first answer was I am a neat freak and what to have a clear countertop. They listened to me and told me to take pictures of the space and then we would speak again. After all the consultations, we decided on the Allen & Roth Surface White Mirrored Rectangle Medicine Cabinet.
What I loved about this cabinet is that it was easy for me to install, the instructions allowed me to do it all by myself. I also loved the baskets that were included for the little cubbies. It added another dimension to the bathroom. I am so excited for my family and friends to see this upgrade.
There are many ways for you to upgrade your bathroom this holiday season and into the future. I was able to get some tips from Caroline Harmon, Lowe’s Trend Strategy Manager. I hope that some of these tips will help you as you plan your renovations.
How to make a Guest Bathroom Look Better
How do you choose the right color paint for a bathroom?
When choosing the right paint color for your bathroom, think about how you want it to feel. For a spa-like atmosphere, keep paint colors light and bright. Try sage green, pale pink, blue or greige. A powder room is a great place to go bold. Jewel tones in emerald green, deep blue, or plum are unexpected and dramatic. Pair with peel and stick wallpaper for an even more statement space.
How do you measure a bathroom for proper lighting?
Lighting is very important in a bathroom. Lowe’s private brands have stylish options ranging from modern to coastal to farmhouse. When choosing lighting, consider the look you are going for. LED light bars are sleek and modern, and can be hung above the mirror or on either side.
The vanity light should be approximately aligned with your mirror, and not wider than the vanity. For a round mirror, a two-light vanity light is ideal for balance. A beaded flush mount or modern pendant can add personality and style to your space, while brightening the room. Vent fans with integrated lighting can also help add more light to the space.
What accessories should you include in a bathroom?
When thinking about ways to accessorize your bathroom consider style and utility. Baskets in a natural water hyacinth bring another natural element and also hide clutter. A faux plant brings nature inside and creates a sense of calm, without the upkeep. Hanging art brings in color and helps personalize the space. If you need additional storage in a small space, an over-the-toilet etagere can be a great bathroom accessory. They can hold plenty of bath essentials, including towels, toilet paper, makeup bags, and more. Swap out hardware to match the space or create a more custom look.
What is the right size medicine cabinet for a space?
To maximize your storage space, use medicine cabinets to ensure everyday items are easily accessible. When choosing the right medicine cabinet size, consider the width and height of your sink or vanity. For smaller sinks and vanities 18 to 24 inches wide, choose a 15 x 24-inch medicine cabinet. For mid-size vanities 42 to 48 inches wide, a 30 x 24-inch medicine cabinet is a good fit. For larger vanities approximately 60 inches wide with a double sink, choose two smaller medicine cabinets to go above the faucets, 20 x 24 inches is a comfortable choice for both. (you don’t want it wider than the vanity)
If storage is not an issue, a regular mirror also works for the guest baths and can add more style. Try a distressed option for an updated farmhouse style, or a round brushed gold for a modern look.
How do you decide what type of flooring is for a bathroom?
Wood-look vinyl flooring is perfect for a bathroom. It’s resists water and feels good underfoot. Its also great for a quick remodel and can sometimes float over existing flooring. A medium-toned wood floor can bring a lot of warmth to the space and help provide that spa-like bath. In a powder bath, a patterned tile is a great way to make a bold statement in a small space.
It is easy to ‘shop the look’ with our bathroom collections featuring Allen + Roth products.
Renovating is not easy, but I hope these tips will help you move through the process. Remember to have fun with it and ask questions. I want to thank Lowe’s for helping me with this project.
What would you love to change in your bathroom?