21 Super Chic Downstairs Toilet Design Ideas

While often overlooked when it comes to home design, downstairs toilets (or cloakrooms) have the potential to become stylish and welcoming spaces. Often tucked under the stairs or tucked away in a corner, these small rooms can be transformed into functional and chic havens with a little creativity and planning.

Here are 21 super chic downstairs toilet design ideas to inspire you:

1. Maximize the Space:

Small spaces require clever design solutions to make the most of every inch. Here are some tips to maximize the space in your downstairs toilet:

Wall-mounted solutions: Opt for wall-mounted toilets and vanities. This frees up floor space, creating a more open and airy feel.
Storage solutions: Utilize recessed shelves and cabinets for hidden storage. This keeps the room clutter-free and provides convenient storage for essentials.
Mirrors: Strategically placed mirrors can create the illusion of more space. Consider a large mirror above the sink or a full-length mirror on the wall.

2. Be Bold with Decor:

Don’t be afraid to embrace bold colors, patterns, and textures in your downstairs toilet. This small space can be the perfect canvas for experimentation and adding personality to your home.

Statement pieces: Use a patterned wallpaper, statement tiles, or a vibrant paint color to create a focal point.
Accessorize: Add pops of color and personality with decorative towels, artwork, or a unique soap dispenser.
Mix and match: Don’t be afraid to mix and match patterns and textures for a layered and eclectic look.

3. Reflect the Light:

Good lighting is crucial in small spaces, making them feel brighter and more inviting.

Multiple light sources: Combine overhead lighting with wall sconces and task lighting for a layered and functional approach.
Reflective surfaces: Use mirrors and glossy tiles to bounce light around the room, creating a brighter and more open feel.
Natural light: If possible, maximize natural light by using a skylight or window.

4. Choose Oversized Tiles:

Using large format tiles can create a sense of spaciousness in a small room. They minimize grout lines, creating a cleaner and more modern look.

Consider the size: Choose tiles that are large enough to make a statement without overwhelming the space.
Explore different materials: Marble, porcelain, and concrete are popular options for oversized tiles.
Patterned tiles: For a bolder look, consider using patterned oversized tiles to add visual interest.

5. Consider Comfort:

While small, downstairs toilets should still be comfortable and functional.

Invest in a quality toilet seat: Choose a comfortable and stylish toilet seat that complements the overall design.
Add a stool or bench: A small stool or bench provides additional seating and storage space.
Luxury touches: Consider adding heated floors or a towel warmer for an extra touch of comfort and luxury.

6. Go for All White (with a twist):

An all-white color scheme can create a clean and airy feel in a small space. However, it doesn’t have to be boring.

Textural variations: Add depth and dimension with different tile finishes, textured paint, or metallic accents.
Natural elements: Introduce warmth and texture with wood accents or a small plant.
Black accents: For a modern twist, incorporate black details like a faucet, towel rack, or picture frame.

7. Embrace Unexpected Touches:

Adding unique and unexpected elements can elevate your downstairs toilet design to the next level.

Statement sink or faucet: Choose a unique sink or faucet that makes a statement and reflects your personal style.
Art and accessories: Hang a small piece of artwork or a decorative mirror to add personality.
Natural elements: Incorporate natural elements like plants or wood accents to create a calming and inviting atmosphere.

8. Embrace Natural Materials:

Stone accents: Natural stone like marble, granite, or travertine can add a touch of luxury and sophistication to your downstairs toilet. Use it for countertops, flooring, or wall accents.
Wood elements: Warm wood tones can bring a sense of warmth and texture to the space. Consider using wood for vanities, shelves, or even a small stool.
Greenery: Adding a small plant or two can add a touch of life and freshness to the room. Choose low-maintenance plants that thrive in low light conditions.

9. Play with Patterns and Textures:

Mix and match tiles: Combine different tile patterns and textures to create a visually interesting and dynamic space.
Wallpaper with personality: Choose a bold wallpaper with a unique pattern or color to make a statement.
Textured paint: Opt for textured paint finishes like Venetian plaster or exposed brick for added depth and dimension.

10. Incorporate Smart Storage:

Hidden storage: Utilize built-in niches or cabinets to hide away toiletries and other essentials.
Mirrors with storage: Choose a mirror with a built-in shelf or cabinet for additional storage space.
Multifunctional furniture: Invest in a vanity with drawers or a stool with built-in storage to maximize space utilization.

11. Create a Custom Backsplash:

Tile mosaics: Create a unique and eye-catching backsplash using a mosaic of different colored tiles.
Stencils and paint: Use stencils and paint to create a custom backsplash design that reflects your personal style.
Wallpaper accent: Extend your chosen wallpaper design onto the backsplash for a cohesive look.

12. Focus on the Details:

Unique hardware: Upgrade your towel racks, toilet paper holder, and other hardware with stylish and decorative pieces.
Custom lighting: Install a statement pendant light or sconces to add a touch of personality and elegance.
Scented candles or diffusers: Create a welcoming and inviting atmosphere with scented candles or diffusers.

13. Embrace Unexpected Materials:

Concrete accents: Concrete can add a modern and industrial touch to your downstairs toilet. Consider using it for countertops, flooring, or even a statement sink.
Copper or brass details: Incorporate copper or brass accents for a warm and luxurious feel. This can be through hardware, lighting fixtures, or decorative accessories.
Terracotta tiles: Terracotta tiles offer a rustic and earthy aesthetic, perfect for creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

14. Think Outside the Box:

Upcycled furniture: Give old furniture a new lease on life by repurposing it as a vanity or storage unit in your downstairs toilet.
Vintage finds: Add a touch of character and history with vintage finds like a unique mirror or antique towel rack.
DIY projects: Get creative and personalize your space with DIY projects like a custom-painted sign or a framed piece of artwork.

15. Create a Statement Ceiling:

Painted ceiling: Paint the ceiling in a bold color or pattern to add visual interest and draw the eye upwards. This can help make the space feel taller and more spacious.
Wallpapered ceiling: Extend your chosen wallpaper design onto the ceiling for a cohesive and dramatic look.
Exposed beams or wood paneling: Add a touch of rustic charm with exposed beams or wood paneling on the ceiling.

16. Incorporate Unique Lighting:

Pendant lights: Install a statement pendant light above the sink for a touch of personality and elegance. Choose a design that complements your overall aesthetic.
Recessed lighting: Combine recessed lighting with other light sources for a layered and functional approach. This can be particularly effective in highlighting specific areas like the sink or vanity.
Dimmers and smart lighting: Add dimmers or smart lighting to control the ambiance and create different moods in the space.

17. Embrace the Unexpected:

Curtains or blinds: Add a touch of softness and privacy with curtains or blinds on the window. Choose a fabric that complements your chosen color scheme and adds a decorative element.
Area rug: A small area rug can add warmth, texture, and color to the space. Choose a rug that is easy to clean and maintain.
Decorative accessories: Don’t be afraid to add personal touches with decorative accessories like a small vase of flowers, a framed piece of artwork, or a unique soap dispenser.

18. Think Vertically:

Wall-mounted shelves: Utilize wall-mounted shelves for additional storage and display space. This can be a great way to showcase decorative items or toiletries.
Vertical garden: Install a vertical garden on the wall for a touch of greenery and a unique focal point. Choose plants that thrive in low light conditions.
Mirrors: Hang a full-length mirror on the wall to create the illusion of more space and add a touch of elegance.

19. Play with Scale:

Oversized mirror: Hang an oversized mirror above the sink to make the space feel larger and bounce light around the room.
Statement sink: Choose a unique or oversized sink that makes a statement and becomes the focal point of the room.
Contrasting colors: Use contrasting colors on the walls and floor to create visual interest and define different areas within the small space.

20. Go Global:

Moroccan tiles: Add a touch of exotic flair with Moroccan-style tiles on the floor or walls. Choose vibrant colors and intricate patterns for a truly unique look.
Japanese-inspired minimalism: Embrace a minimalist aesthetic inspired by Japanese design. Use clean lines, natural materials, and a neutral color palette to create a calming and serene space.
Mediterranean charm: Bring the Mediterranean coast to your downstairs toilet with terracotta tiles, whitewashed walls, and pops of blue or green.

21. Don’t Forget the Finishing Touches:

Scented candles or diffusers: Create a welcoming and inviting atmosphere with scented candles or diffusers. Choose scents that complement your chosen design and add a touch of luxury.
Fresh towels and toiletries: Keep the space clean and fresh with high-quality towels and toiletries that match your overall aesthetic.
Attention to detail: Pay attention to the small details like the hardware, door handles, and towel racks. Choose pieces that elevate the overall design and add a touch of personality.

Wrapping Up

Try incorporating these innovative ideas and let your creativity flow to transform your downstairs toilet into a truly unique and stylish space that reflects your personality and adds a touch of luxury to your home.