Besides the pretty celadon green striped wallpaper by Brunschwig & Fils, the decorative aspect of this charming Powder Room is the artwork. I have admired this Powder Room, which belongs to dear friends, because it is adorned with art that is meaningful to them. The medley of assorted silhouettes and miniatures, collected in London by their family years ago, adds to the room's charm. The history of each piece has been dutifully recorded on the backside, which is a smart idea. The two seashell gouaches are by artist John Gould, the “Audubon of Australia.”
Consider adding even more charm to your Powder Room walls with lovely artwork.
Typically, most guests do not expect to discover important artwork in a Powder Room! While silver picture frames, replete with meaningful photographs, pique the curiosity of your guests in other rooms, pretty Powder Rooms can be the perfect backdrop to display some of your most alluring artwork for guests to admire unexpectedly... albeit privately!
Both photographs and artwork are what I refer to as “subtle bragging rights.” Nothing is overtly prominent but, instead, discreetly intriguing to others. Photographs in your house offer a peek at important moments. Artwork, especially in a Powder Room, can be a surprise, revealing your interests, family background, or personal stories.
A Powder Room is intended for guests. This is where ladies powder their noses and apply pink lipstick… in private. Think of the walls as premium space to be clever and reveal your treasures, whether lavish or simply what you hold dear. Typically, Powder Rooms do not have a shower or tub, hence, the artwork will not be at risk from an abundance of moisture. A well-appointed Powder Room can easily be transformed into a “gem box” of a private art gallery.
Silhouettes from London.
Once, as I was a dinner party guest at a distinguished historic house, a stunning “art” discovery was made. During cocktail hour, the Director of a prestigious art museum returned from the Powder Room and asked the host what he knew about the watercolor hanging near the sink. “Yes, it was purchased by my grandfather years ago on his travels,” he responded. The signature was diminutive and hard to decipher. The Director recognized the artwork, which was painted by a world-famous artist and was exceptionally valuable. Now, this is another reason to hang artwork in your Powder Room. It may be discovered as being more prized than you could ever imagine!
Powder Rooms tend to be rather feminine in decor, but not ours! Because Fox Hall, our c. 1803 house, was built before indoor plumbing, our Powder Room was cleverly slipped in under the main staircase. The door leading into it is part of the Hunt Room bookcase. The dark green Scalamandre wallpaper with Jack Russell terriers seemed fitting to complement the burgundy walls and horsey theme for the Hunt Room. The artwork displayed has an intriguing story of how and why we collected it.
The art you display will create a brief and unique experience for your guests to relish and remember. Choose an exceptional mirror and soft lighting for your Powder Room.
The pilot episode for my public television series, You Are Cordially Invited, was filmed at a grand house, Eyrie Knoll, in West Hartford, Connecticut. The Sullivans’ attention to detail in every room was exemplary. Their distinguished collection of du Paquier porcelain (Vienna 1719) was once a featured exhibition at The Metropolitan Museum. When Julia Child was a dinner guest, she exclaimed that their Powder Room was the most beautifully, well-appointed one she had ever visited. Note the hand-painted design on the wood floor and cabinet, the attractive mirror, and the shaded electric candlelights.
Grandmillennial Tips:
Remember, the paint or wallpaper colors in your Powder Room should complement the artwork and adjoining room. Create a calm but captivating oasis for your guests.
Whether you have a collection of museum-worthy artwork, or simply hang a multitude of porcelain birds on wall brackets, framed children’s artwork, or a collection of something meaningful, consider salon-style hanging as an option, where the sky's the limit. The walls can be adorned from top to bottom!
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