Style lines an important choice
I chose two different conscious bathroom photos to illustrate how different style lines and shapes can change the look and feel of a room. Even though both of these rooms are fairly small spaces each has its own unique look. One room is filled with soft lines and curves while the other is all about straight lines and smooth surfaces. Choosing between the two can make a world of difference in how your room will turn out. You need to make a conscious effort to incorporate your choice into your décor. Even the smallest details can make a difference.
Curved lines
The lovely, Old World-style Moen bathroom pictured here has a ton of visual interest and movement. This is achieved by the choice of using soft lines and curved elements in the space. The curved shower rods can easily be retrofitted into an existing bathroom to add some high style to your décor, not to mention some additional elbow room in the shower. Most of us would automatically choose a straight shower curtain rod because that's what we're used to, but a conscious choice to buy something different can determine the outcome of your décor project. The lovely Old World Bronze finish on the curtain rods is a lot more stylish and warm than the usual stainless steel. The matching shower rings, shower head, towel ring, faucets and trash can finish the look. In a small space it's best to keep the finishes in similar, if not matching, tones. It will help keep the room visually cohesive.
Other elements that add to the soft visual lines of this bathroom are the vanity, with its bowed front and curvy details, the lovely ornate mirror, the round wastebasket, soap dish and even the candle sconces. Many of these items would normally have straight lines, such as the mirror for instance. If you keep in mind that you want soft, wavy lines in your space when you're buying accessories then you'll end up with a room with a ton of character and movement. Even choosing something such as the round vase over a square one can make the difference between a charming accent and a modern one. You may have to buck the norm and go out of your way to find distinctive accessories such as these but it will be worth the effort.
All of these small touches add up to a ton of charm. Other items to consider along these lines would be things such as a round or oval bath mat, towel rings instead of straight towel rods, oval framed artwork or photos and even a wavy design on the actual shower curtain instead of harsh stripes or squares.
Straight lines
The second Moen bathroom is a style opposite of the curvy components of the first room and has a totally different look and feel. Straight lines and crisp, cool colours give this room a contemporary look that is fresh and clean. The square, white vanity has linear detailing. The co-ordinating mirror is square and the matching wall shelf has straight and defined lines as well. Even the bath mat is square. The wainscoting divides the focal wall with a straight, horizontal edge and is edged with straight, flat trim that has no curvy details. The boards on the wainscoting also boast straight vertical lines, which add to the overall look of the room. The chrome details are glossy and clean. Even the wall sconces are square rather than round. Slick and smooth lines and finishes give this room it's fresh, contemporary look. No frills, curves or soft lines in this room.
Colours that work
As an aside, the colour and finish choices in each of these rooms help support each unique look. The wavy, Old World bathroom boasts warm, rich wall colour and warm, bronze fixtures that add to the room's charming, cosy appeal. The second, more contemporary room is filled with crisp, clean white elements, cool blue wall colour and shiny chrome fixtures that give it an overall fresh, contemporary appeal.
You can mix the two lines in one space if you're comfortable doing so but staying within either one or the other for the most part will help you achieve success.
Connieoliver@shaw.ca
