Having a small bathroom can present challenges when it comes to design and layout. However, with some clever planning and strategic use of space and materials, even the tiniest of bathrooms can be both beautiful and highly functional. The key is focusing on placement of fixtures and choosing materials that enhance the feeling of spaciousness. With a bit of creativity, you can have the bathroom of your dreams, no matter the square footage.
Strategic Placement is Key
When working with a small bathroom space, placement of fixtures and amenities is critical in order to maximize both aesthetics and utility. Here are some tips for optimal placement:
Optimize Traffic Flow
Take time to think about how you use your bathroom and how multiple people will move through the space. Place fixtures in a layout that allows for easy circulation, avoiding collisions between open doors and seated toilet users. Allow ample clearance around doors and drawers so they can open fully without obstruction.
Use Wall Space Wisely
In a small bathroom, it’s all about utilizing vertical storage wisely. Place shelving high on walls, and use floor-to-ceiling cabinets for hidden storage. Hang a taller cabinet next to your sink to store toiletries and medicines out of sight.
Adjust Toilet Placement
If space allows, offset the toilet slightly from the wall or corner. This allows easier access for cleaning and creates a bit more openness. Just be sure to maintain a minimum of 21 inches of clearance from the front of toilet to opposite wall.
Consider Pedestal Sinks
Pedestal sinks take up less floor space than a vanity, opening up precious square footage. Or install a wall-hung vanity to create an open, leggy look. Just be sure to include storage somewhere else.
Choose a Compact Tub
A full 60-inch tub may not fit in a petite bathroom. Look for a space-saving short tub around 48 inches long, or consider a shower stall instead. Corner tubs can also squeeze into tight spaces.
Include Multi-Use Furnishings
It’s all about double duty. Choose a storage bench or ottoman that can sit in the open when needed, or slide narrow shelving units behind the toilet to hold toiletries when not in use. A corner mounted cabinet with a fold-down table is ideal for makeup application or displaying decorative items.
Use Lighting and Mirrors to Expand Space
Proper lighting and mirrors can work magic in a small bathroom, visually expanding the space and making it feel more open and airy. Here are some great options:
Add Windows
Natural light is always best if possible. Skylights or frosted glass windows allow daylight while preserving privacy. For interior bathrooms, add a window or artificial skylight to bring in natural-looking light.
Install Wall Sconces
Sconces on each side of the mirror provide even lighting for grooming. Outfit the shower or tub area with waterproof wall sconces as well.
Use Undercabinet Lighting
Install lighting under cabinets and shelves to create ambient glow while eliminating dark shadows in the space. Good task lighting at the mirror is key.
Choose Mirrored Cabinets
Mirrored cabinet fronts reflect light and create an instant sense of spaciousness in tight quarters. Just be sure to offset with some non-mirrored cabinetry for balance.
Incorporate a Mirrored Wall
Strategically placed mirrors can make a small bathroom feel more expansive. You can mirror an entire wall, or just mirror the area around the sink. Be sure to break up the mirror a bit so it doesn’t feel overwhelmingly reflective.
Add an Accent Chandelier or Pendant
A sparkling overhead light fixture casts a warming glow and adds stylistic interest. Scale lighting proportionally for small rooms—an intricate mini chandelier can make a big statement.
Use Color and Patterns to Visually Expand
Color and pattern choices can work magic in a petite bathroom. Lighter tones, less contrast, and strategic use of patterns can impart a feeling of openness.
Stick to Light Colors
Light reflective colors such as off-whites, soft blues and greens open up space. Stark white can feel harsh, so balance with lighter wood accents and tones. Save the drama for accessories and art.
Minimize Contrast
Choose flooring that is a similar tone to the walls, rather than high contrast. Carry wall paint color onto the ceiling as well. Contrasting grout lines on tile can make walls look busier, so use matching grout.
Add Texture with Patterns
Use patterns and textured surfaces in moderation. Limit patterns to one feature area like floor tile or a wallpaper accent wall. Keep other surfaces plain. Textured tile adds interest while also disguising grout lines.
Paint Stripes Vertically
Vertical striped wallpaper or painting can fake the look of added height in a low-ceilinged room. Just don’t overdo—stripes on every wall can be dizzying.
Include Natural Elements
Incorporating nature through material choices imparts a soothing, spa-like ambiance. Stone tile, woven wood accents, greenery and botanical art prints bring the outdoors in.
Choose Materials that Enhance Spaciousness
The materials you choose for surfaces and furnishing can greatly impact the look and feel of a small bathroom. Use these tips to pick products that improve aesthetics in tight spaces:
Select Slimline Fixtures
Streamlined modern plumbing fixtures take up less visual space. Thinner faucets and shower hardware give a sleek look. Floating faucets save counter space.
Consider Glass Shower Doors
Using frameless glass shower enclosures creates an airy, open look compared to shower curtains or bulky doors. Etched glass adds a frosted look while obscuring views.
Use Wall-Hung Vanities
Floating wall-mounted vanities are a space-saving option that makes a bathroom feel more expansive. They also simplify cleaning around the toilet area.
Incorporate Glass Shelving
Glass or acrylic shelving disappears into the background, maintaining openness. This allowsyou to store necessities without cluttering up precious floor space.
Choose Surface Materials Wisely
Glossy surfaces like ceramic tile or glass mosaic tiles reflect light and make space seem larger. Smaller scale tiles like mosaics also make walls less imposing. Minimize grout lines.
Include Floating Furnishings
Visually lightweight glass, acrylic or metal shelving units seem to float on the walls, preserving openness. Floating wall cabinets also impart modern flair.
Creative Touches for Tiny Bathrooms
Adding some creative touches can transform a cramped bathroom into a stylish, spa-like oasis. Use these ideas to maximize both form and function.
Built-In Storage Nooks
Take advantage of every inch by tucking narrow shelving units into unused voids and corners. Fill them with rolled towels, toiletries and bath accessories.
Unexpected Accent Materials
Add visual interest by incorporating an unexpected material like pebbles on the floor, glass tile in the shower or an acrylic accent wall. This adds depth without clutter.
Dramatic Mirrors
An intricately framed statement mirror commands attention in a tiny space. Opt for clean lines rather than heavy ornate frames.
Floating Corner Shelves
Make use of awkward corners by installing floating corner shelves. They’re perfect to store small decorative objects or bathroom essentials.
Stylish Discrete Storage
Incorporate storage baskets and bins to control clutter without sacrificing style. Woven seagrass or rattan adds texture while metal wire gives an industrial edge.
Spa-Inspired Touches
Create a relaxing spa vibe with extras like wall-mounted candles, decorative towel hooks, robe hooks, a wall-mount shower caddy and pampering bath accessories.
Illuminated Mirrors and Cabinets
Installing backlit LED mirrors and undercabinet lighting creates a welcoming glow in a small dark space, while serving up gobs of function.
Answers to Frequently Asked Questions About Designing Tiny Bathrooms
Many homeowners struggle to configure small bathrooms that are both beautiful and highly functional. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about tiny bath design solutions.
What are some space-saving options for very small bathrooms?
Some excellent space savers for tight bathrooms include wall-hung vanities, pedestal sinks, corner-fit showers, compact elongated toilets, adjustable shelving units and medicine cabinets with mirror fronts. Also look for 2-in-1 items like shower caddies with shelves.
How can I make a cramped bathroom feel more open?
Use design tricks like frameless glass shower doors, floating wall shelves, striped or mirrored walls, dual purpose furnishings like sliding storage units, and glass vessel sinks. Add mirrors and good overhead and undercabinet lighting. Stick to light wall colors and minimal patterns.
What storage solutions work best in tiny bathrooms?
Optimize every inch with floor-to-ceiling shelving, wall niches, narrow pull-out drawers, corner cabinets and medicine cabinets. Built-in nooks in unused areas provide discreet storage. Glass-front cabinets and open shelving maintain a lightweight visual.
What floor plans work best for small square footage baths?
Plans that minimize wasted space are best. Offsetting the toilet works better than centering it on a wall. A corner shower optimizes footprint. Place two fixtures across from each other rather than side by side. An L shaped plan with sink and toilet along one wall may work.
How do I choose fixtures and finishes for a little bathroom?
Focus on slender, compact, space-saving options like floating vanities, wall-hung sinks, and low-profile toilets. Visually lightweight glass, acrylic and metal materials maintain openness. Use mirrors, reflective surfaces and lighter wall colors to expand space.
Final Thoughts on Designing an Efficient Small Bathroom
A beautifully designed small bathroom is absolutely achievable. By focusing on intelligent placement of necessary fixtures and finishes that enhance spaciousness, you can create a bathroom that looks and feels anything but tiny. Pay attention to lighting, color and material choices that reflect and refract light rather than absorb it. Remember— every inch counts in a petite bathroom, so optimize vertical storage space and choose multi-use furnishings. With strategic planning and creative problem solving, you can fashion a welcoming, elegant bathroom that meets your needs, no matter how small the square footage. The end result will be a well-appointed, spa-like space you can happily retreat to at the end of each day.