Why not choose a fun theme and turn your bathroom space into a cozy work of art? The possibilities are endless, and the increased popularity of eclectic washroom accents in the stores should make your redecorating experience fun and affordable—and will encourage you to move to larger rooms once you are finished. Need some ideas? Read on…

· One of the easiest bathroom themes these days is the African motif. Everywhere you look, stores are stocking animal print soaps, candles, and rugs. Try not to overdo this print, however. The theme can be worked in tastefully with exotic masks on your walls, tribal stamps on bathroom tile, and lots of lush plants. Visit an import store or two for one-of-a-kin accents. Add imported boxes for your toiletries, and perhaps a small fountain for the counter top. To really take the plunge, paint the small room a darker color and hang faux vines from the ceiling. Hang wooden beads in front of the commode or shower. One warning about this theme: you will have so much fun finding accessories that you will keep purchasing them long after your bathroom is full. Be prepared to have the motif spill out into other rooms of your house or apartment!

· Turn your bathroom into a retro Hollywood paradise. How? Invest in a black and white shower curtain and rug. Next, go to a few poster shops and buy large black and white postcards of your favorite classic Hollywood stars. Pin the postcards all over your walls along with your own photography. Use silver accents, white towels, red soaps, and faux red flowers to make the room pop with whimsy and glamour.

Next, consider turning your bathroom into a beach shed. Buy some fisherman’s net and drape it from a corner. Place large shells in the folds. Replace your civilized light fixture with a rustic tin style. Use thick rope to tie back curtains made of thick canvas. Throw some driftwood and large shells on your counter tops. If you want to change the walls, select a blue-gray paint shade, and then do a diluted white wash over the top with a large stiff bristled brush. Fill up old glass decanters (easily found at rummage sales) with sand and set on the back of your toilet or on shelves. Your rug should be a light tan color, reminiscent of sand. This is a great theme if you want to keep your bathroom light and airy. It works well in a room with a large window.

For a great reference on decorating with themes, check out Liz Wagstaff’s book Creating a Look (Quadrille 1999). This beautiful picture book contains great ideas based on looks from around the world, and includes a detailed how-to section. The bathroom is a perfect place to let your imagination run, and the small space can be changed frequently. Just don’t forget to ask your family how they feel about waking up to an African mask each morning!