Designing For A Small Bathroom

Consumer Information

Pinterest is full of amazing bathroom renovation pictures that leave us wanting a space just like it. But what if you only have a small bathroom to work with? How can you create a functional bathroom if the space doesn’t allow for expansion? Over the years, we have helped numerous clients get the things they needed into their space, no matter the size. Our experience has taught us one crucial lesson: the importance of effective planning.

At a design meeting, one of the first items we discuss is the client’s wish list. It is essential to lay everything out and begin determining the best way to accomplish their goals. Here, we will share a few things to keep in mind when designing a small bathroom, as well as some questions to ask yourself about what should go into this space.

Shower Or Tub?

With limited space, it is usually wise to have only one of these items in your bathroom. We recommend going with a shower, as they can be easily placed in a corner, thus leaving additional space. There are a few other benefits to having just a shower, including less cleaning time, easier access to the shower, and no significant adjustments needed when choosing where to place the shower.

Large walk in shower with tile walls and flooring

Design Smart

Planning is key to this project, and placement and design choices determine the outcome. Here are a few layout tips to make your small bathroom feel bigger than it is.

Using a sliding door allows for more room, or a door that swings outward.
Place your toilet and sink side by side, as this frees up wall space and allows unhindered foot traffic.
Putting the shower against the short wall leaves more available space for other essential items, such as the sink and vanity.

Read a few more tips in this article here.

Make Room For Storage

Storage will be among the top essentials in a small bathroom because it helps you maximize your space and keep essential items within easy reach. Here are a few things to consider adding to increase storage space.

A floating vanity. Since these vanities are anchored to the wall rather than resting on legs, there is additional room beneath the cabinet to place decorative baskets or bins for storing larger items, such as extra towels.
A small cabinet on the counter adds more storage. This can be the perfect place to stash those little things often needed, such as Q-tips, washcloths, and lotion.
Drawers, if done correctly, are an excellent way to maximize storage. Deep drawers provide the space needed to store tall items that would clutter the countertop, such as hairspray cans. Utilizing dividers in lower drawers can help keep everything in place and maximize space in a small bathroom.

Small Doesn’t Mean Dull

Just because the square footage is limited does not mean our creativity has to be. With good planning and strategic design choices, you can still have the space you need for a leisurely morning and relaxing bedtime routine. The key is planning, so we always recommend writing down the essential items for your bathroom before meeting with our designers. Please view one of our small bathroom projects here or schedule a visit to tour our showroom and see our displays.

byStacey Walker/onSeptember 21, 2020/updatedJanuary 28, 2026/inConsumer Information

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