PATINA PRINCIPLES - DESIGNING BEAUTIFUL BATHROOMS

Throughout our design career, Steve and I have found that the more we break the traditional “rules,” the more we love the result. This holds true for every space we design—from the grandest living rooms to the smallest, seemingly unimportant bathrooms.

Image by Lisa Romerein

Today, I’m focusing on the latter, sharing our tried-and-true tips for designing bathrooms. While this room may contain more utilitarian elements than others, we approach its design the same way we would any space. By prioritizing natural beauty, timeless warmth, and calm simplicity, we strive to create a washroom that feels more like a sanctuary and less like an afterthought.

Image by Lisa Romerein

LET NATURE IN

We consider nature to be one of our greatest collaborators when curating spaces. And although it may not be the first room you’d expect it in, the bathroom is often where its influence shines most.

Image by Lisa Romerein

In these highly functional rooms, choose natural materials. Incorporate stunning stone in showers, worn wood for vanities, soft linen curtains, and unlacquered brass fixtures that will age beautifully over time. These elements create a sense of relaxed, organic beauty.

Image by Lisa Romerein

Let nature inspire your color palette, too. We prefer soft, flattering shades or dimensional plaster over stark white paint to emphasize serenity and warmth.

Image by Lisa Romerein

And if it’s an option, add a window or skylight. Natural light not only makes a space feel larger and more inviting, but fresh air helps keep things feeling clean and alive.

Image by Lisa Romerein

TIMELESS OVER TRENDS

In a world constantly selling the next “must-have” look, we find comfort in what’s tried and true. Designing from this mindset helps create a space you’ll love for a lifetime, not just for a fleeting season.

It’s no surprise that I recommend antique elements wherever possible. We’ve been incorporating these pieces into our homes for decades, and they’ve never gone out of style. Think aged wood cabinetry, and antique mirrors with soulful charm.

Image by Lisa Romerein

We also believe in investing in quality fixtures that develop a beautiful patina with use. Some of our favorite sources are Atmosphyre, The Water Monopoly, and Waterworks. Their craftsmanship has stood the test of time, and we love them even more now than the day they were installed.

Image by Lisa Romerein

EMBRACE SIMPLICITY

A bathroom should feel serene and uncluttered—after all, it’s where we go to wash away the day. To create this calm atmosphere, we focus on intuitive layouts and hidden storage, keeping toiletries tucked away behind curtains or cabinetry.

Image by Lisa Romerein

But simplicity doesn’t mean boring. Add charm with functional, beautiful accessories: handwoven baskets, ceramic soap dishes, or a small vase of flowers. Even the smallest decorative detail can bring a sense of softness and delight.

Image by Lisa Romerein

THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX

As I mentioned earlier, some of our favorite spaces have come from ignoring the rules. Don’t be afraid to tread an untraditional path. But one rule that I will give you, that I have found is best to follow, is to never have the door open up to the toilet! It is much better to be greeted by a beautiful sink vignette than a comode.

Image by Lisa Romerein

But, other than that, pieces are yours to play with! Turn a vintage cabinet into a sink. Replace a medicine cabinet with an ornate antique mirror. Lay down a beautiful old rug to add warmth and texture. Adding unique elements can help create a space that feels personal and beautiful.

Image by Lisa Romerein

Bathrooms may be small, but they hold big potential. With a bit of imagination and a willingness to break from the expected, you can create a space that is both ravishing and rejuvenating.

xx,

Brooke