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.

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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."

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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.

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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.

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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.

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

FAQs

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.

Where to put a toilet in a small bathroom? ›

If you are planning a toilet compartment, the NKBA recommends a space about 36 by 66 inches, with a 32-inch-wide doorway. The absolute minimum would be 30 by 60 inches, which leaves just 15 inches of space on either side of the toilet rough-in.

What is the color trend for bathrooms in 2024? ›

In any case, this list of 2024's most popular colors is designed to inspire ideas for your upcoming dream bathroom makeover. According to top interior designers, modern blue, light green, and warmer neutral bathroom color schemes are popular in 2024.

What color walls look best in a small bathroom? ›

Available colors for small bathrooms can definitely produce a spa-like atmosphere. Think light white paint colors or even gray paint colors. Not only are they soothing colors, but they also make a room feel light and, therefore, bigger.

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 color is most flattering in a bathroom? ›

Soothing neutrals in blue, green, and gray will help create a relaxing, spa-like vibe for your bathroom. Look for colors inspired by nature like soft sage, sky blue, and ash gray. If you prefer warmer colors, opt for a pale yellow, warm beige, or even a delicate blush color to give the space a welcoming glow.

How to decorate a wall in a small bathroom? ›

Installing shelves on bathroom walls provides additional storage space and opportunities for decorative displays. "I often incorporate open shelving to showcase stylish baskets, decorative jars, or potted plants," says Kelly. "This not only adds visual interest but also allows for practical organization of essentials."

What is the best toilet shape for a small bathroom? ›

For small bathrooms, wall-hung or corner toilets save space, while one-piece designs offer a sleek look. Compact elongated models provide comfort without occupying extra room, and dual-flush options are efficient for water conservation.

Where should toiletries be placed in a small bathroom? ›

Floating Shelf Bathroom Storage

Keep your daily necessities out in the open by making a stand-up vanity. A floating shelf below a mirror is the perfect place to hold your nightly routine products. Stock your shelf with makeup remover, cotton swabs, and a small hand towel.

What are the rules of bathroom layout? ›

Plan a clear floor space of at least 30 inches from the front edge of all fixtures (lavatory, toilet, bidet, tub, and shower) to any opposite bath fixture, wall, or obstacle. Code Requirements: A minimum space of 21 inches must be planned in front of the lavatory, toilet, bidet, and tub.

What color bathroom increases home value? ›

The big bang of blue bathrooms

For example, a light blue or periwinkle bathroom can increase a home's resale value significantly (by $5,440 according to the study!), while an off-white or eggshell bathroom can decrease the value by several thousand dollars.

What makes a small bathroom appear larger? ›

Add a Mirror

A well-placed mirror can help to reflect light and visually enlarge a space. “A great way to make smaller bathrooms feel bigger is to swap out large, frameless mirrors for smaller, decorative mirrors with a minimal thin frame.

What color scheme for a small bathroom? ›

Create Contrast With Classic Black and White. Contrasting colors can help your small bathroom design stand out. Black cabinets and details against white walls allow the room to feel larger and more open, especially if you have a window that provides some natural light.

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