It’s a fact. You can go without that decorative art glass entranceway, imported ceramic tile or wood-burning brick pizza oven. However, you won’t last for more than three days or so without water. Don’t despair! The industry’s flooded with fab finds. Spouting style for survival’s sake has never been easier.

Particularly if you’re not working off of a fixed budget. As my husband and I plan our new home, with only so much pocket change to complete the project, I’ve decided (and he has as well, although he hasn’t realized it yet) that we’ll be splurging on at least one sink that makes a statement. This treasure will be in our main floor half bath. The half bath may be the smallest room in a home, but that doesn’t mean it’s an inconsequential space. This is the bathroom our guests will most often use, and we’ll frequent it regularly as well. The perk is, because the half bath isn’t occupied for any great lengths of time, it’s ok to be adventurous with color and other expressive, unique design elements. The room’s limited size allows you to infuse a bit of luxury. It’s the perfect place to accept five minutes of pampering here and there throughout your otherwise hectic day.

Photo courtesy of The Taunton Press

Here’s the problem. It’s a buffet of basins out there.

Although I haven’t yet found my perfect fantasy bowl, I’ve discovered there are plenty of awe-inspiring options on the market. Consider these ideas.

Stone Forest crafts integrated lavatories and bowls from blocks of solid granite boulders, marble and hand-crafted copper. See www.stoneforest.com. Kohler offers endless opportunity for unique fluid expression, from its 16th century, Quing dynasty-inspired porcelain Garden Bandana dish to its primitive 6th century, Greek-influenced Mythical Beasts Camber lavatory with textured gold or platinum inset. www.kohler.com. Pottery or ceramic bowls can be drilled and transformed into working above-counter sinks you can place on cabinets or consoles. Plenty of manufactured versions abound; check out www.hastingstilebath.com for starters. A tempered glass Deco top accents a stainless steel bowl for streamlined appeal at www.tubz.com.

I can only hope the inclusion of one of these in our new home will ultimately quench my need to shout, “Did you wash your hands?” Although the new problem will likely be getting them to stop.

Small Bath Makeover
Give your little hall bath a fresh new face.
Read this article in the new winter issue!