The average bathroom is about 160 square feet in size. Not a ton of space to work with in a room that has to do a lot of work morning and night. Increasing the footprint isn’t an option for most homeowners. But there are design ideas that can help you get more space out of your existing bathroom’s footprint. These 11 small bathroom remodel tips are a great place to start.
Small Bathroom Tip #1: Round it out
Tight spaces and sharp corners rarely mix. But the majority of vanity counters are square or rectangular, which means your hips might take a bit of abuse in those tight spaces. A rounded bathroom vanity not only take up less physical space but it gives the entire bathroom a more open feel. And, if you do happen to bump into it, you won’t feel the sting. A pedestal sink is a great option for a powder room or half bath where you don’t need a lot of storage.
Small Bathroom Tip #2: Extend it (banjo-style)
Short on counter space? Extend the countertop over the toilet to provide additional storage space. This added counter creates just enough space for a few needed items and keeps the look of the bathroom clean.
Small Bathroom Tip #3: Bigger is (sometimes) better
In this case, when it comes to the bathroom mirror, bigger can definitely be better. Mirrors are a common design trick in small spaces. Not only do they reflect light but they give the appearance that a space is larger than it really is. If you have double sinks, place one larger mirror over the entire counter surface. Or expand it across the entire wall.
Also, choose large patterns for wall and floor tile. Small tiles can actually have the opposite effect you want, making the bathroom appear busy and crowded. They also require a lot more grout, which means more scrubbing for you (no thanks!).
Small Bathroom Tip #4: Go long
Don’t like the look of large-format tiles? Vinyl planks work just as well when you want to create the illusion of space. The latest styles come in standard lengths of 36 and 48 inches, and six- and nine-inch width. These vinyl planks are made to look like wood, stone, or tile, so you can get the look you want in a waterproof, budget-friendly, and durable floor.
Small Bathroom Tip #5: Pick one color scheme (and stick to it)
A soft, neutral tone will help to keep a small space from feeling even smaller. White is best, as it lightens and opens up a space. And remember, once you’ve chosen a color, you don’t have to stick to just that one. You can use different shades of the same color to add interest and elements of design. When it comes to your faucets and accessories, stick to a single metal finish to keep the look cohesive.
Small Bathroom Tip #6: Change direction
Changing the direction that the door swings can help to make your bathroom feel a little larger. Better yet, install a pocket door to avoid taking up any space. And if your shower door swings open, consider replacing it with a sliding door to save space.
Small Bathroom Tip #7: Use glass – or nothing at all
If you have a shower curtain, consider replacing it with a glass shower door instead to let light in. You’ll be surprised how much larger your small bathroom looks and feels! A walk-in shower is another space-saving idea that’s still trending in interior design and is ideal for those with limited mobility.
Small Bathroom Tip #8: Recess!
Shelves, cabinets, and other items that protrude from the walls can make a small space appear even more crowded. That said, storage space is a commodity in bathrooms, so it won’t do to simply remove all you have. Consider installing recessed accessories to save space and give your bathroom a more open feel. Accessories such as toilet paper holders, towel holders, and medicine cabinets are all available in recessed versions. You might also be able to add recessed cubbies in your new shower to hold soap and shampoo bottles.
Small Bathroom Tip #9: Light it up
Not all bathrooms have the luxury of natural light, but if yours does have a window, take advantage of it! Remove window coverings that can block light or replace heavier shades with lighter fabrics that provide privacy while still allowing some natural light to warm up the space.
The right light fixtures can help, too. For task lighting, add wall sconces on either side of the mirror. Overhead, install an ambient light. Adding a dimmer to this light can make it even more functional. During the day, turn it up all the way for better task lighting, and at night, turn it down to its softest setting to use as a night light.
Small Bathroom Tip #10: Raise the roof
In the smallest of bathrooms, sometimes the only way to save floor space is to look up. Create the illusion of a taller ceiling by raising the shower curtain bar as close to the ceiling as possible. Install crown molding around the ceiling and paint it the same color to trick the eye into making the room appear larger. Vertical elements, like a tall, thin mirror or high shelving can also draw the eye upwards creating a sense of space in your bathroom renovation.
Small Bathroom Tip #11: Get down
While it may sound counterintuitive, adding a dark or vibrant color below waist level can actually make the rest of the bathroom appear bigger and brighter. Choose a dark shade for the baseboards, cabinetry, and vanity and keep everything else in the bathroom light and bright.
Some bathroom renovations need more than simple DIY tricks to increase their usability. From simple tub and shower updates to complete bathroom remodels, Re‑Bath does it all – and typically within just five days! Check out more bathroom remodeling ideas on our website. Find a Re‑Bath near you and schedule a free design consultation now!
