Adding a West Elm medicine cabinet to your bathroom is about more than storage. These cabinets combine form and function, crafting an aesthetic focal point while keeping essentials neatly tucked away. To ensure your new addition elevates your bathroom’s style, here are some design considerations and tips on setting up your space with a West Elm medicine cabinet.
Choosing the Right Cabinet
Considering Size and Proportion
Measure your bathroom wall space before selecting a West Elm medicine cabinet. A cabinet that is too large can overpower a small bathroom, while one that is too small may look misplaced. Consider the cabinet’s depth as well, especially in narrow bathrooms, to avoid a cramped feeling.
Matching the Style to Your Decor
West Elm offers various designs from traditional to modern. Opt for a cabinet that complements the color scheme and existing fixtures in your bathroom. If your space has a minimalist design, a cabinet with clean lines and a simple finish may work best. For more classic decors, consider cabinets with detailed woodwork or molding.
Installing Your Medicine Cabinet
Preparing for Installation
Before you drill holes or add supports, locate the wall studs where the cabinet will hang. Use a stud finder to trace and mark these. Then, hold the medicine cabinet against the wall to mark the position for the mounting screws. If studs are not positioned right, you may need to use heavy-duty wall anchors.
Ensuring Level and Secure Fitment
Use a level to ensure your marks align horizontally and that your cabinet will sit straight. Once you confirm the placement and level, attach the mounting bracket or screws that came with the cabinet. Carefully hang the cabinet, ensuring it’s securely fastened to the wall.
Coordinating Accessories
Selecting Complimentary Hardware
The hardware and fixtures in your bathroom should work in harmony with your West Elm medicine cabinet. Choose towel bars, hooks, and drawer pulls that echo the cabinet’s design and finish. Consistency in these details contributes to a cohesive look.
Using Accent Pieces
Personalize your space with accessories that provide both style and function. Consider items like a decorative soap dispenser, an elegant toothbrush holder, or unique glass jars for cotton balls. These accents will enhance your bathroom’s look while keeping your essentials organized and within reach.
Organizing the Inside
Maximizing Storage Functionality
Take advantage of your new storage by organizing your items efficiently. Use the shelves to separate products by type or frequency of use. Keep everyday items at eye level for easy access, and store lesser-used products higher or lower in the cabinet.
Adding Inner Door Storage
Over-the-door organizers designed for medicine cabinets can add extra storage space for small items. Look for storage solutions that fit the scale of your cabinet and won’t interfere with its closure. West Elm or specialty bathroom stores may offer compatible accessories.
Integrating Lighting
Choosing Complementing Light Fixtures
Good lighting is critical in a bathroom. Choose a light fixture that complements the design of your medicine cabinet. For cabinets placed over a vanity, consider installing sconces on either side for balanced lighting that’s perfect for grooming.
Considering Light Color and Intensity
Select bulbs that provide a warm, natural light, which is most flattering for skin tones. Avoid harsh or overly bright lights which can create shadows and glare. Dimmers can offer flexibility, providing bright light for functional use and softer light for a more relaxed ambiance.
Adding Final Touches
Hanging Mirrors or Artwork
If your West Elm medicine cabinet leaves wall space available, consider hanging a mirror or select pieces of artwork to fill the space. This can enhance the bathroom’s theme, add depth, and reflect light to make the room appear larger.
Incorporating Plants or Natural Elements
Adding plants can bring life to your bathroom. Choose species that thrive in humid, low-light conditions. Natural elements such as wood or stone accessories can also add texture and warmth to the room, completing the stylish atmosphere created by your West Elm medicine cabinet.
Incorporating Functional Aesthetics
Highlighting Everyday Essentials
Even everyday items like a body spray bottle can contribute to your bathroom’s overall aesthetic when chosen thoughtfully. Select a bottle with a design that complements the finish and style of your West Elm medicine cabinet. For instance, a glass bottle with sleek lines will pair well with a modern cabinet, while an amber-colored bottle can add a vintage touch suitable for traditional designs.
Streamlining Vanity Display
Your vanity or counter space should be an extension of your medicine cabinet’s style. Arrange a few carefully selected items—like your body spray bottle, hand soap, and a small plant or trinket dish—in a simple tray to keep them organized. This will ensure these essentials are accessible while maintaining a clutter-free environment. By grouping these items together, you make it easy to move them if you need more space, keeping your bathroom functional and adaptable.
Crafting a Sensorial Experience
Infusing Scents and Serenity
The bathroom is more than just a visual space; it’s a multi-sensory environment where scents play a significant role. Choose a body spray with a refreshing and calming fragrance that enhances the ambiance of your bathroom, offering a spa-like experience every time you step in. Display the body spray bottle in a way that it’s not just handy after a shower, but also becomes a visual and olfactory highlight, creating an inviting atmosphere.
Layering Textures and Fragrances
Consider how the body spray’s scent complements the textures and colors in your bathroom. Just as you would layer different materials for a rich design, you can layer fragrances for depth. The sleek smoothness of a body spray bottle can contrast pleasantly with the softness of towels or the grain of a wood cabinet, while its aroma can meld seamlessly with the freshness of clean linens and natural bath products.
Creating Your Bathroom Oasis
Styling your bathroom with a West Elm medicine cabinet can transform the space into a stylish and functional retreat. From choosing the right cabinet to coordinating accessories and lighting, every decision contributes to the overall feel of your bathroom. By thoughtfully considering each aspect and incorporating personal touches, you’ll create a space that’s both organized and reflective of your taste.