Feng Shui Bathroom Design

My husband and I often travel by car to vacation spots. Inevitably we have to make a pit stop. If we can't find an appropriate roadside rest area, we look for a con venient restaurant. Finding a place with a bathroom posi tioned by an entrance door makes us feel less guilty about using the bathroom without patronizing the restaurant. While public facilities often position bath rooms near the door to discourage guests from walking through busy areas, there's no such need in a home.

First impressions are duplicated on some level every time we enter a space, and being greeted by a bathroom does not usually telegraph the highest and best message.

Create a feeling of separation between a bathroom and an entrance. If space permits, place a plant, screen, or sculpture as a divider before the door. If there is not enough room, hang a mirror on the bathroom door to help it disappear.

Paint the inside of the bathroom door a darker color than the foyer. A deep color will make the bathroom's interior recede. The fragrance of mint or pine can add to a feeling of separation. A secure visible lock and a stash of extra toilet tissues under the sink adds to the feeling of privacy.