A cloakroom downstairs (also referred to as Guest WC) might very well prove to turn out to be one of the smallest rooms of your house, but it will certainly turn out to prove to be the room used frequently. A cloakroom design that serves your purposes while standing out for your unique personality might very well prove to turn out to be an excellent piece of design if attained from an experienced Interior Design Studio, especially when drawing inspiration from small bathroom decor ideas London. Oraanj Interiors is an apt example of that.
In real-world projects, we have seen that small cloakrooms are where Space Planning is most beneficial, where a few centimeters can have a great impact on comfort and functionality, especially when supported by precise technical CAD drawings.
We now present our favourite design ideas for a home renovation project such as a downstairs cloakroom.
1. Clever Space-Saving Solutions
Because most downstairs cloakrooms are small, there’s lots of scope for making smart design decisions that really pay off:
Wall Hung Sanitary Ware: A wall-mounted toilet and basin free up floor space, making the room feel larger.
Corner Basins: These are best utilised for tight layouts as they maximise every inch.
Sliding or Pocket Doors: Avoid door-swing problems associated with narrow rooms.
Compact Fixtures: Avoid congestion and choose between a slimline toilet or a petite basin.
Tip: A mirrored cabinet over the basin provides more storage without sacrificing style and furthers practical Space Planning in tight footprints.
2. Bold & Beautiful Wall Treatments
Small spaces are the best for playing with bold designs:
Dramatic Wallpaper: Use a striking print (tropical, geometric, or floral) to instantly transform the room.
Dark & Moody Shades: Navy blues, emerald greens, and charcoal colours convey luxury and intimacy.
Textured Tiles: Textured tiles can include herringbone patterns with subway tiles, encaustic cement tiles, or glossy geometric patterns.
Half-Panelled Walls: Painted wood panelling combined with wallpaper creates a classic as well as modern look.
Tip: Many homeowners can benefit from having a Colour Consultation in order to verify if dark colours can still provide balance in situations where there is limited natural light available.
3. Statement Lighting for Impact
A cloakroom can be made or marred by lighting:
Pendant Lights: A fashionable pendant fixture dropped down above the sink area is a great way to give the bathroom a
Backlit Mirrors: Give you well-lit grooming coverage coupled with a sleek, high-tech look
Wall Sconces: Place brass or black sconces alongside the mirror for a boutique hotel look.
Spotlights/LED Strips: The area must be sufficiently illuminated, especially if it lacks natural light.
Tip: Use dimmable lighting to change the ambience if needed. The skills of Lighting Design specialists can rapidly turn cramped cloakrooms from purely practical to subtly luxurious.
4. Smart Storage to Keep Clutter at Bay
Even the smallest cloakroom requires creative storage solutions, such as floating shelves for neatly folded items or décor, recessed wall niches near the sink for toiletries, and slim ladder shelves for towels and decorative objects. You can also choose multi-functional furniture like a vanity unit with built-in storage or a mirrored cabinet. Discreet storage planning is often a priority for London interior designers, as it helps preserve a calm, uncluttered feel in compact spaces.
5. Luxurious Finishing Touches
Enhance your cloakroom with luxury details such as heated towel rails, which are both practical and indulgent, matte black or brass taps for an ultimate touch of sophistication in either modern or classic settings, and high-end accessories like marble soap dispensers, ceramic pieces, or framed prints to complete the look.
Underfloor Heating: The ultimate in luxury for cold winters. Tip: Add a small plant, such as an orchid or a snake plant, to give it a natural, new touch. Some of their clients also apply simple design concepts, influenced by Feng Shui Consultation, to provide comfort to smaller spaces.
6. Flooring That Makes a Statement
Don’t forget the fifth wall, your floor: patterned tiles such as Victorian-style encaustic or bold geometric designs add character, large-format tiles create the illusion of more space, waterproof vinyl offers a practical yet stylish option in wood or stone effects, and herringbone wood-effect tiles bring a warm, timeless feel. As a tip, always choose slip-resistant flooring, especially for high-traffic areas.
7. Small But Mighty: Extra Design Tips
Use a Large Mirror – Expands the space visually.
Keep It Cohesive – Stick to a tight colour palette for a streamlined look.
Add Personality – Whether through quirky art, a bold paint choice, or unique hardware.
Ventilation Is Key – Prevent dampness with an extractor fan or discreet air vent.
Final Thoughts
Possibly your downstairs cloakroom is quite small, yet with careful planning, it can end up being one of the most elegant rooms in your home. The award-winning design team at Oraanj Interiors has worked with numerous clients requiring not only designs for downstairs cloakroom ideas but also high-quality design, which is what Luxury Interior Designers in London provide to clients.
Whether your aim be subtle elegance or strong character, a well-designed cloakroom will make a lasting statement while remaining easy to use.