Don’t get us wrong, a small bathroom is no tragedy, but it can be annoying. It’s easy to feel like the space is closed in, cluttered and even dingy if you’re not careful. It doesn’t have to be that way! In this post, we’ll share some no-nonsense bathroom tips to help you get the most out of your small bathroom, whether you’re thinking about renovating or you’re just not sure how to style and organize it.
Design Tricks That Make Your Small Bathroom Feel Bigger
The first and most important rule when it comes to designing a small bathroom is simple: make it as open and clutter-free as possible. The good news is that it’s easier than it sounds. In fact, it doesn’t take much to open up a small bathroom – a few well-placed tricks and you could have a compact bathroom that you’ll enjoy spending time in.
Choosing the Right Colours and Lighting
Light, neutral colours are the first thing to consider if you want to make a small bathroom feel bigger. Lighter colours help to bounce light around a room, giving the illusion of a bigger space and wider walls. Dark, heavy colours can have the opposite effect, making the space seem even smaller and closed in.
Lighting is also important. Instead of using just one overhead light, try and use a variety of different sources to keep shadows at bay and add a more open feel to the room:
- Ambient lighting: general brightness (ceiling lights or downlights).
- Task lighting: everyday bathroom tasks like shaving or applying makeup (mirror sconces are great for this).
- Accent lighting: used for decorative purposes or highlighting specific features (lights on bathroom cabinets, for example).
This approach keeps the space feeling more open and airy.
Making the Most of Mirrors and Reflective Surfaces
Mirrors, glossy tiles and other reflective surfaces are an absolute boon in a small bathroom. Mirrors reflect both natural and artificial light which instantly opens up a room. Place a large frameless mirror above the sink to instantly double the visual space and use mirrors opposite windows to help you make the most of natural light.
Try glossy tiles on the walls or floor, mirrored cabinet doors and other shiny surfaces. Glossy surfaces reflect light and really open up a space, making it feel more airy and spacious.
Selecting the Right Tile and Layout
Tile is one of the most important elements in any bathroom, so it’s well worth putting some thought into. When it comes to tile, try and use large-format sizes where possible, for both floors and walls. The larger the tile and the fewer grout lines, the more open the space will feel. Floor tiles can also be laid on the diagonal to make a room feel wider – it’s an old trick but one that still works!
Tiles on the walls are also a great idea in small bathrooms. Tile all the way up to the ceiling for a seamless effect that also makes the room feel taller and more impressive.
Making the Most of Storage and Space-Saving Fixtures
Storage, fixtures, even the smaller details, can also make a big difference to the look and feel of your small bathroom. Here are a few ideas to help you stay organised and tidy and with as much open space as possible:
Getting Creative with Storage
Creative storage is one of the best ways to open up a small bathroom. If floor space is at a premium, try looking up. Tall, thin storage is a great way to use space in your bathroom. An over-the-toilet shelf or a linen tower are great options, as is even a ladder shelf if you’re feeling creative.
Built-in storage is another good option in small bathrooms. Storage built into the wall, like recessed shelving makes the most of the space between wall studs for extra storage without taking up any more floor space. Great places for recessed shelves are in the shower (for soap, shampoo, etc.) and above the sink (a recessed medicine cabinet works well).
Choosing Fixtures that Do Double Duty
Fixtures in a small bathroom have to work hard for the space they occupy, so they should do more than one job with as little fuss as possible:
- Vanity Units: Wall-mounted vanities are a good option as they leave the floor free and you can even tuck a storage basket or wastebin under the unit. A pedestal sink is also a good idea if you like a clean streamlined look.
- Toilets: Compact, corner or wall-mounted toilets are a must. Wall-mounted toilets are our preferred option as they hide the tank in the wall for a more modern look and a few inches of extra space.
- Showers and Tubs: Avoid shower curtains and choose a clear glass shower door if possible. It helps keep bathroom sightlines open and uncluttered, which helps the room feel bigger. For those that like a bathtub, look for a tub-shower combo with a slim edge.
Paying Attention to the Little Things
Don’t forget the small details. Hang towel bars on the back of the door or use hooks instead, which take up less space. Choose sleek faucets and bathroom accessories to keep everything looking streamlined. Even a single-handle faucet rather than a three-handle unit can free up more counter space. The trick is to minimise the things that make counters feel cluttered.
Fixtures, storage and smart design ideas are the key to a bathroom that’s easy to use and looks good, even in a small space. Keep these tips in mind and you’ll be able to make even the tiniest bathroom work for you.
Need a helping hand with your bathroom renovation? Here at Elite Home Creations, we specialise in stylish and functional bathrooms and we’re proud to serve Dallas, Fort Worth and surrounding areas in Texas. Contact us today to find out more or book a consultation.