The Timeless Design Detail That Will Make Your Small Bathroom Look Larger

Just because your bathroom is small doesn't mean it can't make a major visual impact. If you're searching for ways to make your bathroom look larger, don't overlook the ceiling. Great bathroom design is all about considering every detail. Not only can crown molding create a polished look, but it can also visibly elongate your space. One of the best ways to make your tiny bathroom feel bigger is by changing the proportions of your space and creating a sleek transition between the wall and ceiling. If you are lucky enough to already have architectural details like casings or designs on your ceiling, crown molding is a great way to make them stand out.

While some designers only add crown molding to larger areas like master bedrooms and living rooms, there is something striking about adding decorative trim in a compact space. The size of your crown molding is determined by the height of your ceilings. For an eight-foot ceiling, you can choose crown molding with a width of somewhere between two and a half to six inches. For ceilings that are over ten feet high, you can select molding that measures between four and twenty-four inches. If your bathroom walls are tiled, you can still install crown molding as long as you prime the back of your molding and use heavy-duty adhesive. Don't forget to seal all gaps with waterproof caulk.

If you're wondering how to properly install crown molding, the rules are a little different for your bathroom. Before you jump into the installation process, you need to make sure you select the right material. The high humidity levels in the bathroom dictate that the wood itself should be sealed in a waterproof finish or you should select a different material altogether. Otherwise, you risk warping, mold, and mildew. Lowe's offers moisture-resistant, PVC-based crown molding to consider. If you're intent on sticking with wood, this is what you need to know about waterproofing wood. Make sure your crown molding is not medium-density fiberboard, as that composite material can be easily damaged by moisture.

Beyond the material, there are several styles of crown molding to consider, depending on your aesthetic goals. If you want to add a pop of visual interest, you can't go wrong with classic white crown molding. If you want it to pop, you can choose a contrasting color for your walls or ceiling. For a subtler look, painting the rest of your room the same shade of white is ideal. Design-wise, you can choose between overtly ornate Victorian crown molding, traditional craftsman style, or something even simpler. Cove molding, which has a concave shape, can help your space look larger.