The interior design of a toilet is often overlooked. However, since we use the toilet daily, it’s only natural to want to create a stylish space. That being said, while many people want to put effort into their toilet decor, they may wonder how to make it truly fashionable.
In this article, we will introduce eight simple tips that anyone can follow to transform their toilet into a chic space. If you’re looking to create a stylish toilet space, be sure to check this out.
At Village House, we have over 1,000 affordable properties across Japan, with rent starting as low as 20,000 yen. Additionally, there are no security deposits, key money, handling fees, or renewal fees, keeping initial costs low. If you’re looking to have fun with interior design while keeping rent affordable, please visit our website.
1. Create a relaxing space with carefully selected scents
Toilet air fresheners sold at supermarkets or drugstores might not appeal to some people because they smell artificial or lack in appearance. In a private space where you can be alone like the toilet, it is best to choose something with a pleasant fragrance and an excellent design.
One recommendation is to use a reed diffuser, which is sold at home decor shops or general stores. A reed diffuser consists of a bottle filled with fragrance and a few sticks, which gently diffuse the scent around the area where it’s placed, rather than throughout the entire room. This makes reed diffusers especially suitable for smaller spaces like the toilet or the entryway, as opposed to larger areas like a living room or a bedroom.
2. Create a refreshing and comfortable atmosphere with artificial plants
Many people want to decorate their toilets with houseplants in order to create a comfortable space. However, toilets are not suitable for growing plants because they have poor sunlight and high humidity.
In this case, why not try decorating it with some artificial plants? In recent years, the quality of artificial plants has improved dramatically, and many of them are so realistic that it is difficult to tell at a glance whether they are real or not.
Moreover, artificial plants made from photocatalyst or charge-transfer catalyst materials offer additional benefits, such as deodorizing, antibacterial, and stain-resistant effects. So, not only are they soothing, but they are also highly functional. There are various types to choose from, including hanging or potted artificial plants, so pick one that suits your style.
3. Level up your toilet with stylish deodorizers
Image source: Hinata Life
For dealing with toilet odors, you can use either an air freshener or a deodorizer. If you want to eliminate unpleasant odors that linger in the toilet, it’s best to use a deodorizer. Deodorizers work by neutralizing or disinfecting the bacteria that cause bad odors, making them ideal for those who prefer not to use artificial scents.
When installing a deodorizer, it is important to choose one that is both functional and stylish. For example, a moisture-absorbing deodorizer made from materials like diatomaceous earth, charcoal, or recycled ash with a simple yet cute design can easily soothe you. Alternatively, a sleek deodorizing spray bottle that allows you to quickly eliminate unpleasant odors with a single spritz is also a great option.
4. Choose a trash can with both functionality and style
Image source: IKEA
When choosing a trash can for the toilet, some people might opt for a basic one, thinking, “It’s only for putting trash in, and we don’t have much space…” However, selecting a trash can that is not only functional but also stylish can help elevate the overall look of your toilet.
If you live alone and need a trash can for things like toilet paper rolls, paper towels, or your own sanitary products, a small trash can of about 1.5 to 2 liters would be ideal. On the other hand, if the trash can be used by multiple people for sanitary products, a larger trash can of 4 liters or more is recommended to avoid it filling up in just one day.
5. Switch out your toilet paper holder
Image source: Y Corporation
Rental properties are typically equipped with toilet paper holders pre-installed. One way to create a stylish toilet space is to replace the toilet paper holder and the towel hanger.
A toilet paper holder with a shelf on top not only provides a spot for decorative items but also adds a natural touch to the room. Holders made from iron or brass with a simple, refined design can transform the space into something more sophisticated.
However, when moving out of a rental property, you will need to restore the property to its original state. Therefore, if you decide to replace the toilet paper holder, be sure to check the terms of your lease first.
6. Hang artwork on the wall as a focal point
Image source: Birds’ Words
Decorating the walls of your toilet with postcards and posters will create a stylish atmosphere. If you want to create a modern feel in your toilet, try framing and hanging a simple monochrome poster.
Furthermore, if you want to create a sophisticated Scandinavian-style space, it’s recommended to use fabric panels featuring the iconic Marimekko textiles. This will significantly enhance the stylish ambiance.
In the limited space of a toilet, it’s best to choose an artwork around 30 cm in size to avoid making the space feel cramped. If you have more room, arranging several smaller pieces of art together can also look lovely.
7. Switch to hanging pendant lights
Image source: BeauBelle
If the toilet lighting is too bright, you won’t be able to relax. If you wake up in the middle of the night and the light is too glaring, you might find it harder to fall back asleep. Therefore, it’s important to adjust the lighting in the toilet so that it isn’t overly bright.
By switching to a hanging pendant light, the soft and warm lighting will gently illuminate the space and create a stylish and relaxing atmosphere.
We recommend a pendant shade made of linen. Even when the light is turned on, a faint light will shine through, spreading a gentle glow throughout the room.
Other great options include pendant shades made from opal or amber glass, which offer soft, diffused lighting, creating an effect similar to indirect lighting. Since the light won’t shine directly into your eyes, this helps to create a calm and relaxing ambiance.
8. Use hidden storage to keep your space looking neat and tidy.
Image source: Yamazaki Industry
In order to create a stylish toilet space, it’s best to hide items like toilet paper stock and cleaning supplies to avoid a cluttered appearance.
Using a slim, functional rack to store toilet paper and cleaning supplies is a great option. In a toilet with limited space, a slim rack is ideal because it doesn’t take up much space. In addition, since the top is a tabletop, you can place air fresheners and deodorizers, or use it to display decorative items for more style points.
Using a rack equipped with casters will also make cleaning easier. You can keep the storage items facing outward for easy access and then turn them around to hide them when guests arrive, keeping the space looking tidy.
Additionally, you can make use of the dead space above the toilet tank by installing a shelf/tension rod for extra storage. It is also recommended to store toilet paper and cleaning supplies in a wicker box or file organizers to make them easy to access while keeping the area looking neat.
At Village House, we offer more than 1,000 rental properties across Japan. There are no security deposits, key money, renewal fees, or handling fees. In addition, you will receive one month of free rent (campaigns vary by property). If you want to keep initial costs down, please feel free to contact us.
Hello, I’m Machiko Doi, a freelance writer who writes about housing and living in Japan.
I live in an 80-year-old house that I inherited from my grandparents along with my two shelter cats and daughter.
We live a relaxed life while repairing the house.
I like to cook vegetables from the garden and fresh fish caught by my father, and enjoy them with cold beer on a hot day or hot sake on a cold day.