How to Maximize Space in Small Bathroom

Published on Friday October 6, 2023

No matter your home size, a small bathroom can make you feel cramped every time you use it. But with a few minor adjustments and some strategic decorating, you can transform that tiny bathroom into a space that feels bigger and works better for you.

How Do You Make a Small Bathroom Look Bigger?

Transforming a small bathroom is all about creating the illusion of space. You can turn your compact bathroom into a more efficient and luxurious space with the right lighting, colors, fixtures, and decor choices.

Maximize the Lighting

When transforming a small bathroom, lighting is your secret weapon. Opt for bright, evenly distributed light sources strategically placed to minimize shadows. Wall-mounted sconces or strips of LEDs are excellent choices. If you have the option, maximize natural light by using sheer curtains or frosted glass windows.

Choose the Right Colors

Lighter shades like soft blues, pale greens, or classic whites reflect light and visually expand the room. Avoid dark and overpowering colors, as they make spaces feel closed in. If you’re a fan of patterns, keep them subtle and sparing. A delicate, neutral pattern on the walls or tiles can add a touch of elegance without overwhelming the space.

Utilize Mirrors and Shiny Fixtures

Mirrors are a small bathroom’s best friend. They reflect light, which enhances the overall brightness of the room. This creates the illusion of depth and space. Consider installing a large, frameless mirror over the sink or vanity. Alternatively, you can use mirror-like materials like polished chrome or stainless steel for your bathroom fixtures.

Incorporate Glass Elements

Glass is another material that allows light to travel through, making the bathroom appear larger. Replacing shower curtains with clear glass doors helps create an open and airy environment. Glass shelves are sleek and less visually obstructive, offering a stylish way to display toiletries and decor.

Opt for Wall-Mounted Fixtures

Wall-mounted fixtures like sinks and toilets free up floor space, giving the room a more open feel. Additionally, they offer the opportunity to utilize the space beneath for additional storage or decorative elements. If you’re researching for an upcoming bathroom remodel, consider wall-mounted shelving or a floating sink and vanity to enhance the sense of spaciousness.

Invest in Multi-Functional Furniture

Furniture that serves multiple purposes can be a game-changer in a small bathroom. Look for a vanity with ample storage, or consider a mirrored cabinet that doubles as additional storage and a mirror. A stool or ottoman that offers storage space inside can also be a stylish and practical addition.

Keep the Floor Visible

A visible floor area contributes to the perception of space. Opt for wall-mounted or leggy furniture instead of bulky cabinets that sit on the floor. Additionally, consider using a smaller rug or bath mat to help make more of the floor visible.

Streamline Your Style

A cohesive style and color scheme can make the room feel more harmonious and spacious. Stick to a limited color palette and consistent textures and materials throughout the bathroom. This includes towels, bath mats, and other accessories.

You should also avoid having too much decor. While adding personal touches to your bathroom is important, be mindful of clutter. Choose one or two pieces of art that complement the space without overwhelming it. Hanging one larger piece of art across from the bathroom mirror is another tip to make your bathroom look bigger.

Convert Your Bathtub Into a Walk-In Shower

Combine functionality and style by replacing your bathtub with a walk-in shower. This transformation saves space, improves functionality, and adds a modern touch to your bathroom. A seamless transition from the dry area to the wet shower area enhances the room’s flow, making it feel more open and spacious.

What Small Steps Can I Take to Maximize Bathroom Space?

If you’re not ready to commit to a complete bathroom overhaul or redesign, there are some simple DIY tips to make a small bathroom feel bigger.

Declutter

Clutter makes any space look smaller. Throw out anything old, expired, or unused. Streamlining your essentials instantly frees up precious space. Organizing bathroom items into bins and adding a magnetic strip somewhere to hold metal items like tweezers or nail clippers creates a clean and visually appealing environment.

Optimize Storage Space

In small bathrooms, storage space is at a premium. Here’s how to make the most of it:

Closed storage, like under-the-sink cabinets, keeps toiletries neatly tucked away.
Shelves in nooks and corners provide extra room for towels, toiletries, and decor.
Behind-the-door hangers are excellent for hanging towels or bathrobes, utilizing previously unused space.
Vertical storage solutions like shower caddies or towel ladders make the most of your wall space while keeping things within easy reach.

Add Greenery

Introducing plants to your bathroom not only adds a touch of nature but also contributes to a more spacious feel. Opt for small, humidity-loving plants placed on shelves or windowsills. Hanging planters are also a great way to utilize vertical space without cluttering the room.

Upgrade Your Light Bulbs

Even if you aren’t replacing the light fixtures, you can easily experiment with light by trying out different temperatures. For example, if you don’t have a lot of natural light in your space, try switching to daylight light bulbs. These give off a cool-toned white glow that can make a room feel bigger and brighter compared to neutral white bulbs.

Contact Long Home for Your Bathroom Upgrades

Maximize the space in your bathroom with an upgrade by Long Baths. Each conversion is custom-designed for your bathroom, providing a wide range of color, finish, and fixture options.

Find out how we can help transform your bathroom by speaking with one of our expert technicians. Contact us for more information and to receive a free estimate today!