How to Use Design for Your Small Bathroom Remodeling Project

Making a small space feel larger takes creativity, especially in a bathroom where you need to fit a toilet, sink and shower or tub. Most homeowners would love a large, relaxing bathroom, but guest baths and half baths are often small.

The good news is that you can create a spacious feeling bathroom that suits your style, even in a small footprint. Here are our favorite design strategies.

Optimize the Layout

Start with the existing layout. A contractor can help you see what is possible within your room's footprint. The best layout depends on your space and needs, but ideal layouts often include:

• A toilet in a relatively private spot with enough clearance on all sides
• A sink and vanity near the entrance for easy access
• A shower or tub on the plumbing wall to keep costs down
• Plenty of well placed electrical outlets

Use Light Colors and Simple Patterns

Light colors reflect light and create a sense of openness. Choose light, neutral shades for walls, floors and fixtures. Polished chrome or stainless fixtures bounce light around the room. Keep patterns to a minimum, since too many can make a small space feel cramped.

Choose a Clear Glass Shower Enclosure

Frameless clear glass lets the eye travel through the space. Choose clear glass over frosted glass or a shower curtain to make the room feel larger and less confined.

Install Large Mirrors

Mirrors reflect light and visually expand the room. A large or wall to wall mirror creates the illusion of more space.

Use Vertical Storage and Open Shelving

Tall cabinets and shelving draw the eye upward and make the room feel taller. Open shelves, kept tidy, feel lighter than closed cabinets.

Install a Pocket or Sliding Door

Replacing a swinging door with a pocket door or sliding barn style door saves space and improves flow.

Try a Floating Vanity

A wall mounted or floating vanity shows more floor and makes the room look bigger. A pedestal sink takes up less space than a full cabinet.

Select Large Tiles

Large tiles mean fewer grout lines, which creates a more expansive, continuous look. Smaller tiles can feel busy. On walls, a vertical tile layout draws the eye up and makes the ceiling seem higher.

Light Strategically

Recessed lights and wall sconces brighten dark corners and reduce shadows. If you have a window, sheer curtains or blinds let in more natural light.

Minimize Clutter With Multi-Functional Pieces

Choose furniture and storage that does double duty. A mirrored medicine cabinet adds storage without taking up space. For more ideas, see our post on maximizing space in a small bathroom.

Ready to Update Your Bathroom?

The design-build experts at Tracy Tesmer Design and Remodeling have remodeled hundreds of bathrooms. See our bathroom remodel projects, then call 678-450-1700 or contact us online.