Making the Most Out of a Small Bathroom

Making a the Most Out of Small Bathrooms

It doesn't take a full remodel or removing walls to open up space in an otherwise small bathroom. Below are some cost-effective methods for making tiny bathrooms feel less closed in.

Pedestal Sinks

Pedestal sinks are not only stylish - they also eliminate the boxy, space-eating traditional vanities that can close off small bathrooms. Switching from a traditional vanity to a pedestal sink will reduce some storage space in the room, so you may want to install small shelving above the sink or additional towel racks/hooks in the room.

Minimalist Storage

When space is at a premium, you may not have room for large storage unit or vanity. Keep only what you absolutely need in the bathroom, ideally in a slim vertical storage unit or on built-in shelving. Store non-essentials like extra towels, bathroom cleaning products and other supplies in the nearest closet.

Light Colors

Larger bathrooms allow you some design freedom to play around with darker colored wall and trim paint, accessories, and major fixtures. In small bathrooms, those dramatic colors can actually make things seem more cramped or narrow. Stick with classic white tubs, sinks and toilets and brighter splashes of color for shower curtains, rugs and towels to lighten up the space you have.

Simplify Fixtures

Ornate fixtures can be appealing, but many are bulkier than their simpler counterparts. When space is at a premium, you may opt for sleeker, slimmer fixtures throughout the room.  Sleek = clean.  Replace those old scratched fixtures with the newer trend color of brushed nickel or burnished brass.

Pocket Doors

The door swing of traditional hinged doors can make small rooms feel even more cramped. Sliding pocket doors can open up additional space without drastically changing the room itself.

Illuminate

Small spaces without proper lighting will have a drastically more claustrophobic atmosphere. Try combining wall fixtures with overhead lights to improve the aesthetic while providing illumination for applying makeup or shaving. For bathrooms on exterior walls, consider adding a window or transom (see below) above the shower area to let in natural light.

Transom window - a window above a door that is usually hinged to a horizontal crosspiece over the door OR a framework of wood or metal that contains a glass windowpane and is built into a wall or roof to admit light or air.