Just because your powder room is small, it doesn't mean it can't make a statement. So many homeowners neglect these small rooms, without realizing the importance they have in the overall decorating scheme. Here are some tips to help make your powder room stand out.

- Brightening up a room gives it a cheerful, open feel. Eliminate any dim lighting or dark shadows. Pot lights create a nice warm light especially in a small room.

- If you're thinking of getting a new vanity, try a smaller 18 inch deep version instead of the usual 21-inch deep model. Or better yet, use a pedestal sink, they hardly take up any room and give the illusion of more space.

- If you have a door that takes up half the room when it swings open, consider replacing it with a sliding pocket door.

- When  choosing your color scheme, try to select a variation of colors within the same family of shades. Keep your baseboards, door trim and moldings the same color as the walls.

- The darker the cabinets, the more they impose on a room; making a smaller room even smaller. Try re-painting existing cabinets the same color as the walls.

- Window covers should also be a similar color to the walls, creating a nice even flow throughout the room.

- Use the space on the inside of the door to hang a large mirror or put up a decorative hook for hanging towels or robes.

- Reduce clutter on the counters by storing your toiletries in containers on shelves or in the vanity.

- If you decide on wallpaper versus painting, try to avoid small, repetitive patterns. Geometrics and classic florals work well without appearing gaudy.

- Sometimes you can get away with using more expensive materials when decorating a small room. A nice stone for the floor or shower, granite countertop,  high end tiles, or a stylish sink may be within your budget.

- Just as with any other room, choose a focal point such as a decorative vanity or ultra-modern sink and decorate around it.

- Create a wider window sill by adding on a ledge to hold accent pieces.

This article was written on behalf of Gary Ashton and his team at NashvilleBuyers.com. NashvilleBuyers.com makes searching for Nashville real estate a breeze, with user-friendly maps, community information, and access to Nashville MLS listings.