Small Bathroom Designs: 14 Best Small Bathroom Ideas (2024)

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Create the illusion of a bigger bathroom. - by Olivia Hart

Renovating a small bathroom can be tricky. You don't want to compromise on style, but you also don’tto wind up with a space that feels cramped.

WATCH: Juliet Love renovates an 80s-style bathroom

Luckily, some simple renovation tips help create the illusion of space. Planning is essential for small bathrooms, from layout to floor plans to storage ideas.

Here are some top tips for maximising space with a small bathroom design.

1. Storage ideas

Mirrored cabinetsare a space saver when it comes to small bathrooms. Not only do they look great but the extra storage allows for clear benchtops and surfaces.

Small Bathroom Designs: 14 Best Small Bathroom Ideas (1)

Instagram / @tim_scbrg

2. Wall mounted taps

If possible, wall mounting your taps can save you a lot of space. "If you have a small vanity, opting for wall mounted taps will allow for a narrower sink, giving you a wider walkway so you can stand comfortably while brushing your teeth," says Wesley Sinclair fromHighgrove Bathrooms.Additionally,wall-hung basins are a great option as they can fit into small space and free up wall space.

Small Bathroom Designs: 14 Best Small Bathroom Ideas (2)

Instagram / @designstuff

3. Use mirrors to your advantage

Installing a mirror, whether it’s floor to ceiling or wall to wall can make the room look bigger. As Wesley explains: "The right mirror can almost magically broaden the size of a room, regardless if no other alterations have been made - so don’t be afraid to expand the size of your mirror."

Small Bathroom Designs: 14 Best Small Bathroom Ideas (3)

Instagram / @mylightingsource

4. Install a shower screen

Skip the shower door and install a frameless panel shower screen. Your bathroom will feel much more spacious with a new age look as well.

If you're worried about the floor getting wet, installing a dual-sided shower drain allows water to be efficiently drained from a larger area, preventing water buildup and reducing the risk of clogs.

Stormtech delivers the perfect bathroom drainage solution, featuring a dual-sided shower drain with glass screen support. Not only are they stylish and functional, but the award winning designs in a range of luxurious colours and finishes.

5. Use larger tiles

Larger tiles are key when it comes to creating the illusion of a bigger bathroom."By incorporating large tiles and patterns into a small bathroom, it tricks the eye into seeing extensive latitude," Wesley said. "With less grouting and lines to break up the visual, your bathroom will appear broader with a higher ceiling."

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6. Decorate with light colours

White or neutral colours are best for a small bathroom. "Light coloured floor and walls always make a room seem larger than it actually is."If you don’t want to add colour, you can do so with your towels and other accessories.

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7. Install ceiling lights

Probably the most underrated "trick" when trying to create the illusion of space. Wesley says, "Try flush mounted ceiling lights for the perception of greater space oraddlighting around the vanity to brighten up that area - a lighted mirror or tape lighting on cabinets and vanity tops will do the trick."

Instagram / @hadiyahlove

8. Natural light

Increasing natural light in bathrooms with windows is a great way to open up a room. If you are looking for privacy opt for shutters over frosted glass.

Small Bathroom Designs: 14 Best Small Bathroom Ideas (5)

Instagram / @originbathrooms

9. Shower and bath combo

Just because you have a small space it doesn't mean you should miss out on one of life's greatest luxuries: the bathtub. Look for a shower and bath combination to maximise space and add a touch of luxe.

Small Bathroom Designs: 14 Best Small Bathroom Ideas (6)

Instagram / @small.apartments

10. Round sinks

Ovals sinks are perfect for small bathrooms as they are softer than round sinks and gives you more counter space than a square sink.

Small Bathroom Designs: 14 Best Small Bathroom Ideas (7)

Instagram / @designstuff

11. Sliding doors

Sliding doors are a must when it comes to any small space, when open they take up less space allowing extra space.

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12. Ledges

Ledges are a great way to add in some extra storage without compromising on looks. Add a ledge below the sinkor above toilet with your daily essentials - soap, hand cream etc.) as it won't take up as much floor space.

Small Bathroom Designs: 14 Best Small Bathroom Ideas (8)

Instagram / @thuisbijsuus

13. Function is key

In any small space, put function first. Stackable baskets not only look great but are also a greatway to store your spare linen and extra toilet paper.

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14. Indoor plants

Add a splash of colour and life to your bathroom with an indoor plant or two, they help to purify the air and open up the space.Make sure you pick a plant that will be able to withstand the bathroom conditions.

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  • Renovating
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Olivia Hart
Small Bathroom Designs: 14 Best Small Bathroom Ideas (2024)

FAQs

How do you make a small bathroom look classy? ›

11 ways to make your small bathroom look elegant
  1. Add warmth to your bathroom. ...
  2. How to paint bathroom tiles. ...
  3. Float your vanity. ...
  4. Opt for open vanity shelving. ...
  5. Go for glass. ...
  6. Install dimmer lights. ...
  7. Don't forget the little touches. ...
  8. Update your bathroom fixtures.
Mar 30, 2023

What color makes a small bathroom look bigger? ›

According to basic design principles, light colors such as white, crème, pastel blue, gray or yellow are all recommended colors to paint a small bathroom in order to visually expand a room, while dark colors such as a deep red, green or brown, will make a room feel smaller.

What flooring makes a small bathroom look bigger? ›

Using larger floor tiles is a great way to trick the eye and make a room look bigger than it actually is. Larger tiles used throughout the bathroom look a lot less 'busy' than with smaller tiles, which therefore make the room appear larger; the lack of grout lines also makes the whole space appear more expansive.

What kind of flooring is best for small bathrooms? ›

When selecting the best flooring for a small bathroom remodel, the key is finding a balance between functionality and aesthetics. Ceramic and porcelain tiles, vinyl flooring, and laminate flooring are among the top choices due to their moisture resistance, durability, and various styles.

What color bathroom sells a house? ›

The colors used in a home can have a significant impact on potential buyers. According to a survey by Zillow, homes with blue bathrooms sold for an average of $5,400 more than those with white bathrooms.

What is the best color for a bathroom vanity in a small bathroom? ›

Opting for lighter hues like soft whites, pale grays, or light natural wood tones can visually expand the room, making it feel more open and airy. These colors reflect light effectively, creating a brighter and more inviting atmosphere, ideal for smaller bathrooms or spaces with limited natural light.

Where to hang towels in a small bathroom? ›

Maximizing Small Bathroom Spaces

Consider utilizing wall-mounted towel racks or hooks to maximize vertical space. Install them near the shower to keep towels within easy reach without taking up valuable floor space. Another tip for small bathrooms is to utilize the back of your bathroom door.

How to decorate a wall in a small bathroom? ›

Stack Your Artwork

Stacking two or three pieces of artwork, with the smaller pieces above the larger pieces, is a great way to decorate bathroom walls. "This approach and use of artwork shouldn't be reserved just for entires, halls, or bedrooms," says Farmer. "Hang your beautiful artwork in the bathroom.

What is the rule of thumb for bathroom remodel? ›

According to the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA), your bathroom remodel budget should be portioned out like this: Labor: 20% Cabinetry and hardware: 16% Fixtures: 15 %

Where do you put art in a small bathroom? ›

You can hang artwork anywhere you have open wall space that isn't directly in the line of fire—or water—from your shower. Here are a few of our favorite ideas: Above the toilet or directly across from it. Next to the mirror or a window.

How to make a small bathroom glamorous? ›

Small Bathroom Decor
  1. Play with complementary colors. ...
  2. Color your cabinets. ...
  3. Play with texture. ...
  4. Swap out your mirror. ...
  5. Just keep it simple. ...
  6. Spice it up with sconces. ...
  7. Create a chalkboard wall. ...
  8. The trim treatment.
Feb 16, 2024

Can small bathrooms look luxurious? ›

With a little imagination, you can transform your tiny bathroom into a space that feels luxurious and functional. There are many ways to improve your small bathroom, including finding a layout design that fits everything you need. You can experiment with lighting and color to make your bathroom seem more spacious.

How do you make a terrible bathroom look nice? ›

The problem: That bathtub is just gross.
  1. Option 1: Clean up that grout!
  2. Option 2: Cover that tub with a pretty shower curtain.
  3. Option 1: Cover that floor up entirely.
  4. Option 2: Cover the floor up (mostly) with a pretty rug.
  5. Solution 1: Paint.
  6. Solution 2: Embrace art.
  7. Option 1: Replace the faucet and/or hardware.
Mar 29, 2023

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