There’s something especially fun about designing a powder room. It’s small, a little tucked away, and often the one space in your home where you can take a few more risks. Because it doesn’t need to function like a full bathroom, it becomes the perfect canvas for adding some personality.

If your powder room is feeling a little tired or overlooked, a refresh doesn’t have to mean a full renovation. In fact, three thoughtful updates—wallpaper, a new mirror, and updated sconces—can completely transform the space.

Let’s break it down. (And if you stick around to the end you get to see my own powder room refresh before and after!)

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1. Start with Wallpaper: Your Statement Maker

Wallpaper is the quickest way to give your powder room a point of view.

Because the space is small, you can go bold without overwhelming the rest of your home.

Think large-scale florals, classic stripes, moody botanicals, or even something a little whimsical. Powder rooms are where you can have fun—don’t overthink it.

A few tips:

• Go darker than you think. Deep tones can make a small space feel cozy and intentional rather than cramped.
• Consider scale. Larger patterns often work better than tiny, busy prints.  

Peel-and-stick options are great, as evidenced by the WallWear peel and stick wall paper (seen above) we used in our powder room. The pattern is called Nestled in Nature. I absolutely fell in love with the elegant botanicals and delicate birds! You can find it on both Amazon and Wal-Mart. 

2. Upgrade the Mirror: Set the focal point

Once your wallpaper is set, the mirror becomes your focal point.

Swapping out a builder-grade (or just plain tired looking) mirror for something with character instantly elevates the space. Look for:

• Vintage or antique mirrors with patina
• Gilded or brass frames for warmth
• Unique shapes—arched, oval, or scalloped edges  

If you love a layered, collected look, don’t be afraid to hang a slightly oversized mirror or even lean into something unexpected. A powder room is one of the few places where a mirror can feel more decorative than purely functional.

This is one example where a thrifted mirror came in very handy! 

3. Add Sconces: Soft, Flattering Light

Lighting makes all the difference, especially in a small space. Here are the sconces I finally decided on:

 

Flanking your mirror with sconces creates a polished, high-end look and provides much more flattering light than a single overhead fixture. For a timeless feel, consider:

• Brass or gold finishes for warmth
• Fabric shades for softness
• Downward-facing sconces for a classic, tailored look

I actually ordered over 10 (!) different style sconces online while I was figuring out which ones worked best in our space.

4. Tie It All Together with Small Details

Once your big three elements are in place, it’s time to layer in the finishing touches: 

A simple piece of art; I used a thrifted vintage botanical. 

 

Pretty hand towels in complementary colors -- I had a custom monogrammed towel made on Etsy.

A tray with soap, a candle, or a small vase of fresh flowers -- it's okay to use grocery store flowers! I placed some pretty purple flowers into a thrifted vintage chinoiserie bud vase. I'll change them out weekly for a special touch. Come summer I'll be getting them from the garden.

A tissue box cover; rattan or bamboo adds welcomed texture. I got this vintage bamboo tissue box cover at a 40% off sale.   

Updated hardware works if your faucet or cabinet pulls need a refresh; and don't be afraid to mix metal finishes! (See my cabinet hardware switch in the after photo.) The new door pulls are brass, as are the sconces, while the faucet is brushed nickel.

These details help the space feel complete and intentional without adding clutter.

Why This Works

The beauty of this approach is that it focuses on high-impact elements without requiring a full gut renovation. Wallpaper sets the mood, the mirror adds personality, and the sconces bring warmth and function.

Together, they create a powder room that feels curated, welcoming, and just a little bit special—for both you and your guests.

And honestly, isn’t that exactly what a powder room should be? 

BEFORE

AFTER

We couldn't be happier with how the powder room turned out! 

 To see our before and after visit this  

video post on Instagram!

 Well, that's it for today, friends!