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The powder room might be the smallest bathroom in your home, but it’s also the one your guests are most likely to use. That makes it the perfect space to show off your style, try something bold and still create a room that works well every day.
Jennifer Price, Strategic Brands Manager for Plumbing World, says the powder room is often treated as a design statement: “a show-off space”. Because it doesn’t need to handle daily showers or full bathroom traffic, you can focus more on atmosphere and aesthetics.
But function still matters. A great powder room needs more than just a toilet and a basin. “You need a bit of storage space for that extra soap, or extra toilet paper,” says Jennifer. Even in tight spaces, there are smart ways to do this. A wall-hung vanity with drawers, a shelf above the toilet or a small cabinet tucked beside the basin can help keep the space practical without looking cluttered.
If you want to add flair, a statement basin, patterned tile or bold wall colour can instantly lift the room. Because the space is small, these features feel striking rather than overwhelming. Feature lighting, curved mirrors or matte black tapware can also add polish.
It’s also worth thinking about how this room fits with the rest of your home. While the powder room can be more decorative, keeping some consistency in materials or finishes will help it feel connected to your overall design.
If you’re planning to renovate your bathroom, our Renovating Your Bathroom Guides are packed with practical advice, planning tips and expert insights to help you get it right. Whether you’re staying put in your home, buying or selling, Join MyTrends to unlock a full library of guides designed to support you at each stage of your property journey.
Disclaimer: This article is based on a podcast featuring insights from experienced professionals and is intended for general information and inspiration only. While we aim to share valuable guidance, please seek personalised advice from qualified professionals before making decisions about your property, finances, or renovation plans.
Search similar articles
The powder room might be the smallest bathroom in your home, but it’s also the one your guests are most likely to use. That makes it the perfect space to show off your style, try something bold and still create a room that works well every day.
Jennifer Price, Strategic Brands Manager for Plumbing World, says the powder room is often treated as a design statement: “a show-off space”. Because it doesn’t need to handle daily showers or full bathroom traffic, you can focus more on atmosphere and aesthetics.
But function still matters. A great powder room needs more than just a toilet and a basin. “You need a bit of storage space for that extra soap, or extra toilet paper,” says Jennifer. Even in tight spaces, there are smart ways to do this. A wall-hung vanity with drawers, a shelf above the toilet or a small cabinet tucked beside the basin can help keep the space practical without looking cluttered.
If you want to add flair, a statement basin, patterned tile or bold wall colour can instantly lift the room. Because the space is small, these features feel striking rather than overwhelming. Feature lighting, curved mirrors or matte black tapware can also add polish.
It’s also worth thinking about how this room fits with the rest of your home. While the powder room can be more decorative, keeping some consistency in materials or finishes will help it feel connected to your overall design.
If you’re planning to renovate your bathroom, our Renovating Your Bathroom Guides are packed with practical advice, planning tips and expert insights to help you get it right. Whether you’re staying put in your home, buying or selling, Join MyTrends to unlock a full library of guides designed to support you at each stage of your property journey.
Disclaimer: This article is based on a podcast featuring insights from experienced professionals and is intended for general information and inspiration only. While we aim to share valuable guidance, please seek personalised advice from qualified professionals before making decisions about your property, finances, or renovation plans.
Search similar articles
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Askö
Furniture designed for life. Ethically made dining and living furniture and accessories by international and New Zealand designers where refined elegance meets sleek, contemporary form. Explore our extensive range of designer furniture via our Christchurch showroom or browse online.
Plumbing World
Plumbing World is New Zealand’s most prominent 100% Kiwi-owned national plumbing merchant, operating over 50 branches from Kerikeri to Invercargill. Plumbing World offers a wide range of bathroom, kitchen, laundry, heating, and hot water products, catering to trade professionals and homeowners.
Landmark Homes
Founding directors Paul and Debbie Clarke established Landmark Homes in 1977. Their vision was to offer “something more exciting” than the average home: a home that made creative use of space but was also beautiful to live in.
Poggenpohl
Poggenpohl is a premium German kitchen brand known for its innovation, timeless design, and precision craftsmanship, offering bespoke kitchen solutions that blend luxury with functionality.
Mastercraft Kitchens
Mastercraft was the brainchild of Murray Belz, a Chief’s supporter with an eye for design, a tonne of ideas and a passion for excellence.
Kitchen Studio
At Kitchen Studio we are very proud of the fact that we are been voted the most trusted kitchen brand in New Zealand for the ninth year running, and there are good reasons why more Kiwis trust us to transform their kitchen than anyone else.
Kitchen Things
Kitchen Things is a 100% locally owned and operated family business that pioneered European cooking in 1986. We specialise in high quality, premium European cooking appliances and our cooking range is complemented with dishwashing, refrigeration, laundry, sinks, taps and small appliances.
Portfolios
View Industry Specialists
Askö
Furniture designed for life. Ethically made dining and living furniture and accessories by international and New Zealand designers where refined elegance meets sleek, contemporary form. Explore our extensive range of designer furniture via our Christchurch showroom or browse online.
Plumbing World
Plumbing World is New Zealand’s most prominent 100% Kiwi-owned national plumbing merchant, operating over 50 branches from Kerikeri to Invercargill. Plumbing World offers a wide range of bathroom, kitchen, laundry, heating, and hot water products, catering to trade professionals and homeowners.
Landmark Homes
Founding directors Paul and Debbie Clarke established Landmark Homes in 1977. Their vision was to offer “something more exciting” than the average home: a home that made creative use of space but was also beautiful to live in.
Poggenpohl
Poggenpohl is a premium German kitchen brand known for its innovation, timeless design, and precision craftsmanship, offering bespoke kitchen solutions that blend luxury with functionality.
Mastercraft Kitchens
Mastercraft was the brainchild of Murray Belz, a Chief’s supporter with an eye for design, a tonne of ideas and a passion for excellence.
Kitchen Studio
At Kitchen Studio we are very proud of the fact that we are been voted the most trusted kitchen brand in New Zealand for the ninth year running, and there are good reasons why more Kiwis trust us to transform their kitchen than anyone else.
Kitchen Things
Kitchen Things is a 100% locally owned and operated family business that pioneered European cooking in 1986. We specialise in high quality, premium European cooking appliances and our cooking range is complemented with dishwashing, refrigeration, laundry, sinks, taps and small appliances.