Bathroom Renovations

Let’s Talk Toilets (Yes, Really)

Alright, to be honest, I never thought I would find myself writing a blog post about toilets, let alone admitting that I actually got a little passionate about this mission. You see, when we moved into this house, our toilets were original to the build (1978) and they were round and incredibly low. As someone who is 5′ 7″, every time I went to sit on it, I nearly free fell for a good 1-2 seconds.

On a misson to no longer free fall every time I went to use the loo, I began my very thorough and comprehensive research to pick the perfect toilet for our house. I decided for cohesiveness and ease, we would use all of the same toilets in the house, so when Joe gave me the green light to buy toilets, my journey to find the royal flush began.

Now let’s be honest—when was the last time you really thought about your toilet? It might not be the star of your Pinterest board, but choosing the right toilet can actually make a surprising difference in both the function and style of your bathroom.

As Fauxtalian Living, Joe and I believe every corner of your home deserves elegance—yes, even the powder room. So let’s talk toilets: shapes, styles, and the subtle details that can elevate your “throne room” from purely practical to effortlessly polished.

1. The Flush Factor: Function First

Before we get caught up in curves and finishes, let’s talk performance. A good toilet should do its job efficiently and quietly. Here’s what to look for:

  • Dual Flush Options: Eco-friendly and elegant? Yes, please. Dual flush systems let you choose how much water to use.
  • Quiet Close Seats: No more late-night clatter—this tiny luxury is worth every penny and is a nonnegotiable in our house.
  • Skirted Designs: Not only do these look sleeker, but they’re easier to clean and this in my book was the MOST important factor. There is nothing worse than cleaning around the nooks and grooves of a toilet.

2. Style Points: Because Form Does Matter

Toilets come in more shapes and sizes than most people realize. From modern minimalism to vintage charm, there’s a look for every space:

  • One-Piece vs. Two-Piece: One-piece toilets have a seamless silhouette and are easier to clean. Two-piece options are more budget-friendly and still beautiful when styled well. While I really wanted a one piece, skirted toilet, buying three of them at the shiny price tag of $1200+ just wasn’t in our budget.
  • Wall-Mounted Options: A favorite in European design, these create an open feel—perfect for smaller baths or a luxe modern vibe.
  • Color Considerations: While classic white is always safe, don’t be afraid to explore soft beige, matte finishes, or even black for a bold moment.

3. Space-Smart Tips for Small Bathrooms

In tighter spaces—hello, powder rooms!—the right toilet can make all the difference, this I firmly believe in!

  • Round Bowls: These are great space-savers compared to elongated bowls. They have more of a vintage look, but they truly do make a difference in small spaces. There’s nothing worse than having to shimmy between a sink and toilet- I know from experience.
  • Compact Designs: Look for models specifically designed for small spaces without sacrificing style.

Bonus Touches: Make It Fauxtalian

Because no detail is too small to deserve a little charm:

  • Swap out the standard flush lever for a brass or matte black handle. SO simple! I promise you can do it. Don’t you dare pay that plumber!
  • Add a chic ceramic tray or vase on the tank for a little high-low moment.
  • Consider a bidet attachment for a little Italian spa energy (and yes—it’s surprisingly easy to DIY).

Final Flush

Ultimately I chose the Kohler Memoirs 1.28 GPF Elongated One-Piece Comfort Height Toilet. While it didn’t have the full skirt, it has the partial skirt to make cleaning easier (goodbye arthritic hands! IYKYK), comfort height so no more free falling, and being part of the Kohler Memoirs Stately Collection, it had all the character and charm that I wanted in a toilet. to match our interior design.

So yes, this post was about toilets—but more importantly, it’s about giving love to the spaces that are so often overlooked. In a home that blends function with flair, even your bathroom deserves to feel elevated.

Because at Fauxtalian Living, we don’t just DIY—we do it with style. Below you will find the toilet that we chose and a few other options that I liked.

Even the most practical pieces can feel elegant when thoughtfully chosen. Here are four toilets that blend timeless design with modern performance—each one worthy of your powder room or your primary bath.

Fauxtalian Picks: Toilets That Bring the Charm

1. Kohler Memoirs Stately Comfort Height

  • Vibe: Classic and architectural—like it belongs in a marble-clad Roman villa.
  • Why It’s Charming: Elegant crown-molding-inspired detailing and a concealed trapway for that polished, high-end look.
  • Best For: Traditional homes, formal powder rooms, or when you’re trying to make “even the toilet” feel grand.
  • Price: ~$299.85 to $818.29 depending on finish and seat option.

2. TOTO Drake Elongated Two-Piece with CEFIONTECT Glaze

  • Vibe: Clean, minimal, and quietly luxurious.
  • Why It’s Charming: CEFIONTECT finish keeps it pristine, while the simple silhouette reflects expert craftsmanship.
  • Best For: Understated elegance—perfect for when your bathroom whispers “refined.”
  • Price: ~$294.95

3. Kohler Kathryn One-Piece Toilet

  • Vibe: Art Deco glamour meets modern convenience.
  • Why It’s Charming: Angular lines and geometric touches give it an Old Hollywood edge. Sleek one-piece design = less cleaning, more style.
  • Best For: Vintage charm with modern performance.
  • Price: ~$1,397.18

4. Duravit DuraStyle One-Piece Toilet

  • Vibe: Euro-chic with a soft modern edge.
  • Why It’s Charming: Compact, minimal, and designed in Germany—it’s the quiet luxury of toilets.
  • Best For: Smaller spaces with high design standards.
  • Price: ~$451.75

5. American Standard Town Square S Right Height Toilet

  • Vibe: Traditional with a touch of drama.
  • Why It’s Charming: Soft architectural detailing and substantial base—like a column in a grand foyer.
  • Best For: Classic baths with wainscoting, vintage hardware, and timeless style.
  • Price: ~$535.08

6. Signature Hardware Bradenton Two-Piece Skirted Toilet

  • Vibe: Farmhouse fresh with designer flair.
  • Why It’s Charming: The skirted profile feels elegant yet unpretentious—and it’s easier to clean.
  • Best For: Transitional baths, brass fixtures, beadboard dreams.
  • Price: Starting at ~$441.33

Affiliate Disclosure:
Fauxtalian Living is reader-supported. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links — at no extra cost to you. As always, I only share products I truly love and would use in my own home.