7 Design Ideas for Your Downstairs Toilet

Now, hear us out. The downstairs toilet might not be the crown jewel of your home—it’s often small, sometimes windowless, and generally overlooked. But that tiny space? It can pack a serious design punch. And it’s where guests often make their first "bathroom impression." So why not give it a bit of character, a bit of flair? Plus, it's a perfect testing ground for bold choices you might hesitate to use elsewhere.

How Can You Make a Small Toilet Look Stylish?

The short answer: with a touch of creativity and a few practical decisions. Think of it like accessorising. You don’t need a full wardrobe overhaul—just a new jacket or a flashy watch can do the trick.

Use Bold Wallpaper (Yes, Even in Small Spaces)

We know what you're thinking: wallpaper in a tiny room? Really? Yes, really. Bold prints, dramatic colours, even metallic finishes can transform a plain cloakroom into a stylish talking point. It works precisely because it's a smaller space—you can go bold without overwhelming your entire home.

Get Clever with Your Lighting

Lighting in a downstairs toilet is often an afterthought. But the right light fixture can elevate the entire vibe. We’ve seen pendant lights used with dramatic effect (not too low, of course), and wall-mounted options are brilliant if space is tight. Try warm lighting to keep things cosy rather than stark. No one wants to feel like they’re in a hospital bathroom.

Opt for a Compact Basin

Functionality matters, especially when you’re tight on square footage. A wall-mounted or corner basin can save room and still look sleek. You’ll find loads of stylish options that don’t sacrifice design for practicality.

What Colour Schemes Work Best?

Honestly? There's no single answer. But we do have favourites.

Monochrome Magic

Black and white will never go out of style. It’s simple, it’s elegant, and it always looks pulled together. Plus, it makes adding accessories easy—just a pop of greenery or brass hardware and you're done.

Earthy and Warm

Terracottas, olive greens, deep navy—these tones add warmth and personality. They feel rich, inviting, and perfect for making a small space feel cosy rather than cramped.

Playful Pastels

Not for everyone, but hear us out: blush pinks, soft blues, even mint green can make a downstairs toilet feel fresh and modern. And no, it won’t look like a baby shower.

How Do You Maximise Storage?

Let’s be honest, storage in a downstairs loo is often limited. But it doesn’t have to be.

Choose Dual-Purpose Cabinets for Modern Bathrooms

Storage doesn't have to be bulky. We recommend dual-purpose cabinets for modern bathrooms that offer a mirror and internal shelving in one. You get function and form—no cluttered countertops required.

Use Floating Shelves

Floating shelves are underrated. They give you vertical storage without making the room feel boxed in. Plus, they’re a great place for plants, candles, or even a cheeky framed quote if that’s your thing.

Should You Add Art or Décor?

Absolutely. A small toilet shouldn’t be sterile. Framed prints, textured wall hangings, or even an eye-catching mirror can bring the space to life. We think personal touches go a long way, even in the smallest rooms.

Is There a Mirror That Works Best in a Cloakroom?

Funny you should ask. We’ve gone back and forth on this one.

Regular Mirror or Cabinet?

If your downstairs toilet is really tight on space, it might also be worth exploring our space-saving mirror cabinet solutions - after all, you still need to store the toilet paper somewhere! But if storage isn’t an issue, a bold or unusually shaped mirror can double as wall art.

What About the Toilet Itself?

Don’t forget the star of the show: the toilet. There are so many styles to choose from now that you can easily find something compact, elegant, or even a bit futuristic. Take a look at our blog on the different types of toilets to find the best one for a smaller space. 

Final Thoughts

Your downstairs toilet might be small, but that doesn’t mean it has to be boring. With some thoughtful choices—a splash of bold colour, clever storage, maybe even a statement mirror—you can turn this often-overlooked space into something genuinely special. So go ahead, experiment a bit. Worst case? It’s just the downstairs loo. Best case? It's your new favourite room in the house.