If you are dealing with a small bathroom, finding the right balance between design, appearance, and functionality can be a challenge. However, you don’t have to sacrifice style for functionality. In fact, bold and creative choices can help a small space feel larger. Each space is unique, tailored to the individual and the constraints of the room.
With so many ideas out there to make small bathrooms look and feel bigger — from color choices to hidden shelving to an extra-long shower curtain — there are plenty of options that may work for you. To help you navigate these solutions, here is some inspiration to make your tiny bathroom appear more spacious. These ideas range from quick fixes to full renovations, offering something for every budget and DIY ability.
Whether you have a small powder room or an awkwardly shaped bathroom, these tips can transform your space into an inviting oasis. Some of these ideas are easy to implement and can have a significant impact, inspiring you to tackle other organization and design projects in your home.
Stick with all white
While white kitchens may be on the decline, an all-white bathroom is still a great way to keep the space bright, fresh, and clean. This is especially helpful for bathrooms without windows, making them feel lighter and more spacious. All-white spaces tend to visually appear larger, allowing you to change up your decor without major modifications.
Avoid the pedestal sinks
Pedestal sinks may not take up much space, but they are not very practical in terms of storage. Consider installing a vanity beneath your sink instead. This provides more storage space to hide clutter and store bathroom essentials, while also giving you extra surface area for your toiletries.
Mount your shower curtain higher
Mounting your shower curtain higher can create the illusion of taller ceilings, making the space feel more open. Make sure the curtain reaches the floor to maintain an unbroken line from ceiling to floor, adding elegance and perceived space to the room.
Make your mirror a medicine cabinet
If your bathroom only has a flat mirror, you’re missing out on convenient storage space. Consider replacing it with a medicine cabinet, which comes in various shapes and styles, adding both functionality and style to the room.
Commit to a patterned wallpaper
While white can make a space feel larger, a patterned wallpaper can also add grandeur and sophistication without overwhelming the room. Opt for a larger pattern with neutral colors to avoid a busy look, creating a stylish statement in your small bathroom.
Opt for a mounted sink
In a guest or half bath where storage space is not a priority, a mounted sink can help make the room feel more spacious. A mounted sink provides extra room for essentials without cluttering the space, offering a simple and elegant solution.
Make use of awkward spaces
If you have a small, awkward space in your bathroom, consider adding open shelving to utilize the area effectively. This not only provides additional storage but also helps the room feel less awkwardly shaped, offering a simple and affordable DIY project.
Add wainscoting to create a stylish perimeter
Wainscoting adds charm to a bathroom and defines the space, making it a great choice for those who want to use wallpaper without covering an entire wall. The color of the wainscoting can add moodiness to the room without making it feel dark or cramped.
Add drama with lighting
A pendant lamp can add character and charm to a bathroom, providing a soothing option for relaxation. Place it above a sink or vanity, or over a standalone bathtub for a luxurious touch, enhancing the overall ambiance of the space.
Put your vanity in the corner
Placing your sink in the corner of the bathroom can maximize floor space and make the room more functional. A corner vanity adds a unique focal point to the space, creating an interesting design element while optimizing the layout of the room.
Mirror an entire wall
Extending a mirror across the entire back wall of the bathroom is a creative design choice that can make the room feel larger. While mirrors can be pricey, this investment will visually expand the space, adding depth and brightness to the room.
Add a view of the sky
A skylight can open up a small bathroom, creating a sense of spaciousness and connecting the room to the outdoors. Placing a skylight over the shower can transform the space into a serene oasis, providing natural light and a feeling of expansiveness.
Hang your art vertically instead of horizontally
Vertical artwork can make a small bathroom feel taller by drawing the eye upward. This is especially effective on a slender wall behind the toilet, redirecting attention to a more aesthetically pleasing focal point and away from the toilet.
Build niches into your shower
Built-in niches in the shower keep products off the ground and eliminate the need for wire shelving, creating a clean and organized bathing area. Easy to clean and maintain, shower niches add functionality and style to the space, enhancing the overall design of the bathroom.
