Prim and Powder Rooms By Local Interior Designer and Tastemaker Megan Dufresne (ASID)
Prim and Powder Rooms
By Local Interior Designer and Tastemaker Megan Dufresne (ASID)
Whether you call it a powder room, guest bathroom, half bath or any number of other names, the additional bathrooms in our homes are the perfect spaces to have a little fun with design! They are more forgiving and less of a commitment than other rooms in the home, and they lend themselves to some exploration with color, texture, and overall theme. Known as the "jewel box", many homeowners and designers make this small space a big statement piece without needing to make it totally cohesive with the rest of the home design. This month we dive into some interesting trends and classic must haves to give any bathroom a summertime upgrade!
Dress It Up with Wallpaper - If you are going to go big, go with wallpaper! Since bathrooms are smaller areas in general, it is the perfect, cost-effective opportunity to indulge in a luxurious wall covering.
Many people are wary of incorporating wallpaper in the bathroom for fear of moisture damage to it, but with proper ventilation and application wallpaper can do very well even in a bathroom setting. With new waterproof options or durable materials like vinyl available, the bathroom is definitely a great place for wallpaper.
The newest trend in powder room wallpaper is to incorporate the ceiling into the design. This technique creates an encapsulating, dramatic effect that is sure to wow. Wallpaper enables you to make a statement and set the tone for the whole space. It allows you to bring in depth in color and texture and can elevate the space like nothing else.
Winning with Wainscoting - Wainscoting is a protective addition to walls that does double duty by creating a visually appealing design. In the bathroom it helps prevent moisture damage to walls and creates a warm and inviting feeling to your space. It's an easy solution when you want to transform the look of your bathroom but you don't want to take the leap of committing to wallpaper.
Traditionally, wainscoting would be done with wood panels which provide a classic, somewhat rustic look. You can add a bit of personality by choosing a bolder paint color or forgoing wood altogether and opting for tile. Either option will add a layer of texture and interest to your design.
Mirror Mirror - Mirrors can often be an item that gets taken for granted in the powder room, but the mirror can be a fun way to make a bold statement that offers low risk and high reward. With an endless variety of materials, colors, and designs, there truly is no limit to what you can create or incorporate.
You can add a frame to an existing mirror or bring in an entirely new mirror to create a natural focal point in the room. Some basic guidelines to follow would be to be aware of scale. You want the mirror to fill the wall space above the sink leaving an inch or two on either side so that the width of the sink or vanity is slightly longer than the mirror.
You also want to consider height in association to the overall space as well as practical use. On average bathroom mirrors will be between 30” and 36” tall, but it can be slightly different depending on your space.
Where is the Accent: As is true in any room, the accent pieces are what bring the design to life. The same is especially true in a small bathroom. An interesting sink can add character to a basic vanity and wall mounted faucets can create a sleek look that adds a touch of elegance.
We've used lighting especially around a mirror to add an extra layer of design to a space or incorporated window coverings, artwork, or towels to bring in pops of color or visual interest. No accent is too small to have an impact.
What will your accent piece be?
About Megan Dufresne
Megan Dufresne, founder and principal of MC Design is a Manhattan Beach native who was raised visiting job sites and marking up blueprints with her contractor father. She grew up in homes custom built and designed by her parents.
Today, she brings South Bay’s casual sophistication to residential and commercial spaces across
Southern California. Passionate about textiles and design, Dufresne’s goal is always to elevate
the everyday into motivating spaces for her clients. Innovative, fun and inspiring are three of her
favorite adjectives when it comes to design.
Dufresne works with both homeowners and builders to create personalized environments that are
timeless yet current; with thoughtful layers that look and feel as though they’ve been
collected over time. Focusing on clients’ culture, tastes and interests as well as the structure’s
architecture, she translates those influences into highly livable, visually stunning interiors and exteriors. Kids, pets, sand and swimming pools inspire instead of limit her creative possibilities.
She works primarily in the beach cities of Palos Verdes, Rolling Hills, Redondo Beach, Hermosa
Beach and Manhattan Beach, and travels for clients as needed. While currently building a showroom in Rancho Mirage, Dufresne is excited to expand her Firm to the Greater Palm Desert area.
As a former luxury design specialist for House Beautiful and Modern Luxury Interiors California magazines, Dufresne now brings that knowledge and passion to interior design. She founded MC Design in 2007.
Dufresne lives in Lower Lunada Bay in Palos Verdes Estates with her husband and two Chihuahuas. She’s a firm believer in cocktail hour(s) and beautifully organized spaces.
Follow @MeganDufresneDesign on Instagram
