I know, enough already ...

I know what you're thinking: "I'm going to stop going over there if all he's gonna talk about is bathrooms!" And you're right - it's been a full month of bathroom talk. I wish that I had other things on my mind, really, I do - but right now, as you can clearly see, I have been consumed by the bathroom and probably will be for the next week or so, especially.

As we near the end of the project, the final touches are key. Design is in the details, and the small, sometimes overlooked touches are really the things that are going to make the most impact, and take your room to the next level.

Take this bathroom from my inspiration files, for example. Sure, it's a great bathroom - but what would it look like sans the vanity table and wicker stool? Would you notice something was missing. How about the fireside chair next to the tub boasting comfortable car-sized towels? None of these items are necessary to the bathrooms function or utility and yet - the bathroom wouldn't have ended up being photographed otherwise.

Do you think that you would have noticed the pitched beam and board ceiling if it weren't for that mirror? The mirror needed for utility is placed behind the sink, so this mirror atop the radiator (again) isn't necessary - but adds two things to this space: 1) color, 2) architectural interest - not only by leading your eye up to the spectacular ceiling, but also in it's own lines and craftsmanship. Again, a fireside chair (perfect for next to a tub due to it's small frame, and low seat) holds towels and adds a touch of softness to the bathroom that otherwise you'd miss. Try to picture the room without the chair and mirror. Do you think that it would have ended up being the center feature?

Furniture in bathrooms is a luxury - not only because the real estate it requires in the space, but the overall feeling it helps you achieve. There is absolutely no room for a chaise in our bathroom, but can you imagine how large this bathroom would feel without it? We're used to making corners feel cozy in our living rooms - but rarely do we carry that into the loo. Admittedly, most of us don't have to worry about having a corner large enough - but for those of you who do, why not take this into consideration?

Yes, design is in the details, and now - thanks to the grunt work being almost completely finished - I can take the drivers seat in a car I know very well, and get started in my cross town search. It'll be fun - and I'll be taking you all with me - sharing photos and stories along the way.