Why is it that the room used most frequently by guests, the powder room, is often a design challenge?  In my daily design work as a Seattle interior designer, I notice that the younger members of the family frequent the  powder room since is it close by.  And in older homes, the designated powder room can also be the bathroom intended for the occupant of the second or third bedroom ( a teen). Keeping the powder room tidy is problematic.

Historically, the powder room either did not exist or was crammed under the stairs resulting in a tight squeeze for the user and also for all the necessary equipment.  Both in new construction and remodels there is notable placement of the powder room in a convenient location.  Also, since the space is confined, homeowners often take some liberties in the design using unusual sinks, colors or wall paper, lighting and art.

Browsing  showhouses and stories, I was attracted to the design of the powder room by interior designer Stephanie Fillbrandt in the San Francisco Decorator Showhouse.  Her challenge was a narrow space only 38″ wide by 9′6″ long with a 12′ ceiling.  Talk about a tunnel!  She creatively used the narrowness to design a focal point at the wall opposite the entrance. By emphasizing the opposite wall, she actually caused it to seem nearer.

One of the reasons I enjoy participating in a Designer Showhouse is precisely what Ms. Fillbrandt demonstated. A Showhouse is an opportunity to design without compromise.  Observing the work of a designer you see in a Showhouse encourages you to place trust in your designer, put aside fears and allow the designer to exercise his or her creativity.

I enjoy your comments, so please send them with questions too.

Our world was already hectic and crazy busy before the economic meltdown.  Now many of us cope with more concerns as we observe our daily world and interactions with family, friends, neighbors.  In this post, I share some ideas, simple ones, that may make our daily routines less stressful.

The Master Suite is becoming  an essential part of the modern home. Whether a remodel of an existing home or a newly constructed home, owners  are incorporating  features to the master bedroom which create a private retreat.  From private, spa-like baths, to well-organized walk-in closets, to mattresses and bedding,  designers recognize that the homeowners require a place all their own to relax and recharge.

Here are a few ideas to create a sanctuary in the midst of chaos.

1. A separate shower and jetted tub create an easy start to the day. Touches like dual showerheads and his-and-hers sinks allow room for everyone, especially when both have to be out the door at the same time.
2. Details like tile and granite vanities elevate these spaces from a bathroom to something like  a high-end spa.
3.  If you lack a budget to create a bath like this, consider changing out your standard shower curtain rod for a curved shower rod.  A curved shower rod is a quick and inexpensive way to add elbow room to your existing shower.
4. Hotels  place a coffeemaker in their suite’s bathrooms because they know that few grown-ups can start their day without a jolt of java.
5. Remodelers make special spaces for coffee and espresso machines right in the Master Suite. A small countertop with room for the coffeemaker, a few cups, and maybe even a small refrigerator below the countertop to keep milk or cream chilled. This way, you can get the coffee going and enjoy it the moment you’re out of the shower.
6. Choose soothing colors like earth tones, deep greens, browns and blues. These colors create a sense of harmony and well-being and will put your mind in the mood to relax for a peaceful night’s rest or a refreshed start to your day.

Send your comments and questions.  I love to hear from you, Faith.

Three themes for the bath; how do you interpret your bath?

The Classic bath includes a chandelier, seating, a neutral rug, mosaic tile and personalization.

How about the Fresh bath? Simply elegant marble tilework, brass sconces, daylight lit bathtub,  freestanding washstand, and a canvas covered classic chair create the elements of this style.

Finally a Natural bath-freestanding tub, side table for book or drink, mosaic vessel sink, botanical art.

More ideas for small bathrooms

On the website, HomeAccentsToday, I saw these beautiful bath accessories designed by Clodagh  in conjunction with Gail DeLoach (formerly Asiaphile), known for luxurious, clean accents for the home crafted in traditional Asian techniques.  Consistent with her vision, shared below, I hope they capture your eye as much as mine.

“a space cannot be truly beautiful unless it functions in harmony with who we are… it’s about pleasure: discovering what pleases us and creating an environment that will celebrate those qualities and sustain us”. Clodagh

The tantalizing description, “Inspired by the idea of bringing spa luxuries to your home, the modern Spa Collection outfits pristine pieces in glossy celadon, white and charcoal lacquer.  The Luna Collection expresses Clodagh’s interest in organic texture by combining basketwoven buntal (a sustainable palm fiber) and dark wood trim for an earthy, yet sophisticated feel. ”

Let me know if you love these accessories.  Send a comment and share your ideas.  Faith

Deborah Oertle combines 20 years of experience in high end residential cabinetry and professional relationships with interior designers  when she owned the flagship showroom Rutt of Chicago in the Chicago Merchandise Mart. During that time Deborah worked with some wonderful clients: Kennedy family, Van Kampen family, Chicago Tribune family, as well as designing the television showpiece kitchen at the home of TV chef Charlie Trotter.

She always felt that there was a better way of doing this; whereby interior designers could retain control of their projects without the need to go through the traditional route. So, the concept of “factory-direct” for interior designers was born. With her partner, his business acumen and experience Deborah was able to see exactly how the business model would help interior designers. She continues to refine it to something unique in the industry.

How does the business model work?
Designers bring their concepts to us and we produce manufacturer’s drawings for them, as well as undertaking the order-processing, all as part of the service.  We consult with them along the way and ultimately manufacture the finished product, which we supply “factory direct” to the interior designer at trade price. Interior designers are is thus relieved of all the mechanical “hassle” and receive a high-quality product at a very competitive price.

The service is to the trade only. Our service is nationwide and we have service representatives in key locations to provide every assistance locally.

Do you just produce kitchens, or is there more?
We produce high-end custom cabinetry for any room in the house. Of course, 90 per cent of our business happens to be kitchens and bathrooms, but we have also worked on libraries, dining-room étâgères, living-room entertainment centers, bedrooms, and mud-rooms. Also, because of our capacity to produce the most intricate wood carving, the company also manufactures high-end bespoke furniture, which we produce either as a one-of-a-kind or as a limited edition, according to a designer’s requirements.

What is your view on the current economic climate and its effect on the interior design industry?
All business also have to look at the way they work and figure out how to achieve the same ends through more competitive and profitable means. That is why our business model is so effective: it provides the high quality that people demand yet, being at trade price and “factory direct”, it is available at a price which end-user clients also find very attractive.