Some smart design tips to transform your small bathroom into a functional and stylish space without compromise.
Let’s face it—if you’ve bought an older house, you might have been lured in by its “character.” But “character” also often means a bathroom that could double as a closet. Don’t worry; you’re not alone! Plenty of folks are looking for ways to make their tiny bathrooms feel more spacious and modern without sacrificing functionality.
Here are some of our practical, designer-approved tricks to maximize your small bathroom space, so you can ditch that “old-school” look for something fresh and functional.
1. Layout: Making the Most of Every Square Inch
One of the first things any designer will tackle in a small bathroom is the layout. In tight quarters, every square inch counts, and the wrong layout can make the space feel more like a dungeon than a retreat.
Go Vertical: If you don’t have much floor space, look up! Tall storage cabinets and open shelving can save precious space without feeling cluttered. Over-the-toilet shelving or narrow vertical cabinets are practical and bring visual interest. Remember, storage that goes up and out of the way keeps the floor clear, making the room feel bigger!
Pocket Doors: Swapping out a traditional swing door for a pocket door can free up a surprising amount of room! Suddenly, you don’t need that awkward space just to swing the door open, giving you flexibility for adding a towel rack or even a small storage unit. And if pocket doors aren't an option due to constraints in the walls, barn doors make for another great space-saving option.
2. Storage: The Real Secret to a Functional Small Bathroom
Storage is the secret weapon for any small space, but you can’t just pile everything into one cabinet and hope for the best. Smart storage solutions will make the bathroom functional without looking cluttered.
Floating Vanities: The floating vanity isn’t just a trendy option. By lifting the vanity off the floor, you add a little breathing room that can make the whole bathroom feel lighter and more open. Plus, you get the bonus of sneaking a basket or two underneath for extra storage.
Niche Shower Shelving: If you’re updating your shower, our designers suggest adding a built-in niche shelving system for shampoo bottles and soap. It’s a simple addition that keeps bottles out of the way, and because it’s recessed, it doesn’t eat into your space!
Recessed Cabinets and Shelving: If you’re renovating, consider recessed cabinets or shelving, which are built directly into the walls to provide storage without filling up the room. Recessed cabinets above the sink also add storage without disrupting the flow.
3. Brighten Things Up with Color and Lighting
Here’s where you can make a big impact without a major renovation. Dark, heavy colors might work in larger rooms, but they tend to close in a small bathroom. The right color palette and lighting can do wonders for opening things up.
Light Colors for Walls: Opt for whites, soft grays, or even very pale blues or greens to make the room feel airy. Dark colors can make an already small space feel even tighter, so stick to lighter tones for a spacious feel. If you want contrast, try a darker color on the floor; it’ll ground the space without overwhelming it.
Mirrors and Lighting: Natural light is ideal, but if your small bathroom lacks a window, mirrors and layered lighting can make up for it. Incorporate a good size vanity mirror to make the space feel larger and more open. Add layers of lighting, like sconces and overhead lights. These small adjustments keep the space bright and open.
4. Fixtures: Choosing Wisely for Tight Quarters
In a compact bathroom, oversized or bulky fixtures can easily overwhelm the space. When choosing fixtures, think “slim and streamlined.”
Compact Vanities: We recommend looking for smaller, narrow-profile vanities that don’t take up as much space. Wall-mounted or pedestal sinks are also a good option. They're sleek and free up valuable floor space, creating an airy feel while still providing functionality.
Frameless Glass Showers: A solid shower wall can really close things in. Frameless glass showers keep the space open and allow light to flow freely, which instantly opens up the bathroom. If you’re concerned about privacy, consider frosted glass—a balance of openness with a bit of coverage.
5. Trick the Eye with Design Details
Sometimes, it’s all about perception. Our designers often use tricks that make the space feel larger without actually changing its dimensions.
Large-Format Tiles: Small tiles can make a small bathroom feel busy and cramped. Instead, try large-format tiles on walls and floors. Fewer grout lines create a seamless look, making the space feel more expansive. Bonus points if you can match the floor and shower tiles; this continuity makes everything feel like one larger, open area.
Extend Shower Tiles and Play with Lines: A pro tip we recommend is tiling your shower all the way up to the ceiling to create the illusion of height. It draws the eye upward, adding visual interest and making the space feel taller. Another simple but effective option is to run a tile line horizontally along the wall. This will trick the eye into seeing the room as wider than it actually is.
6. Embrace Minimalism
In small bathrooms, less is truly more. Over-decorating will make the room feel cramped, so keep accessories and decor to a minimum.
Stick to Essentials: Limit decorative items to a few functional ones, like a nice soap dispenser or a small plant (which also adds a touch of life and color). Instead of multiple items cluttering the countertop, aim for one or two high-quality pieces that stand out.
Opt for Open Space: If possible, resist the urge to pack every square inch with cabinets or decor. A small bathroom benefits from a bit of “breathing room.” The more open space you leave, the more expansive the room will feel.
The Takeaway: Tiny Space, Big Potential
Updating a compact bathroom may feel daunting, especially when it comes with dated finishes that scream “nostalgia.” But remember, with the right layout, storage solutions, and a few visual tricks, your bathroom can feel both functional and modern—no gut reno required.
And remember, you’re not alone in this process! Our team at the Elmwood Design Centre is here to help you find solutions to any design challenges you face, big or small. Whether it’s advice on layout, storage ideas, or just the right finishes, we’re ready to guide you every step of the way. So, take a deep breath, envision your perfect bathroom, and let us help make it a reality.
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