Powder Room Inspiration: Bold Patterns Make Big Impact on Small Spaces
Craftsmanship and detail shine in this Palmetto Bluff powder room
Story by Alea Wilkins + Photography by Kelli Boyd
Tucked into a Moreland neighborhood home in Palmetto Bluff, this powder room shows what can happen when thoughtful design meets fearless detail. Court Atkins Group transformed the small space into something layered, personal and quietly dramatic, where every material and fixture plays a role in the story.
The first things you notice are the wall and floor. Handcrafted Zellige tile from Savannah Surfaces climbs the vanity wall in a soft shimmer, then drops to the floor where it mixes with pale brick in a windmill pattern. The look feels both refined and organic, like it belongs in the Lowcountry, yet whispers of faraway places.
Anchoring the space is a floating vanity built by Wilson Cabinetry with reclaimed wood, its rugged texture a natural counterbalance to the polished Bianco Avion marble countertop from AGM Imports. Element Construction added trim details in the same reclaimed wood, wrapping the room with warmth. Two pendants in a heritage brass finish, sourced through The Light Post, cast a gentle glow and lift the mood.
But it is the mirror that steals the show. Found at High Point Market through Architectural Anarchy, the frame is crafted in the tramp art style, a 19th-century tradition where ordinary materials were hand-carved into intricate, almost kaleidoscopic patterns. Here it feels at once vintage and fresh, a reminder that character pieces aren’t limited to traditional design.
Together the elements create a room that is elegant without being fussy. It’s a gallery of craft, from the shimmer of the tile to the story in the wood grain, proving that even the smallest spaces can leave a lasting impression.
Squared away Pale brick is set in a windmill pattern with soft gray Zellige accents, creating movement without overwhelming the small space. In a powder room, this type of flooring is more than pretty. It helps disguise everyday wear, adds visual interest to the floor and makes the room feel thoughtfully finished.
A look worth copying
Want to bring this powder room’s charm into your own home? Start with five moves that make a small space shine.
1. Mix polished and raw. Pairing reclaimed wood with marble and tile balances warmth with sophistication.
2. Let lighting do the work. Statement pendants in a rich finish, like heritage brass, can elevate a small room and add mood without clutter.
3. Use the floor as art. A patterned layout, such as the windmill design here, disguises wear while giving a small space personality.
4. Invest in one showpiece. A mirror with history or an unusual frame adds instant character and gives guests something to remember.
5. Draw from many places. Materials and vintage finds don’t have to match. Combining global influences with local craftsmanship can create a layered, personal feel.
