A small bathroom doesn’t have to mean sacrificing style or function. With some clever solutions, you can maximize every inch and make the space seem larger and more efficient. Here are eight excellent ways to save space in a compact bathroom.
Utilize Wall-Mounted Fixtures
Pedestal sinks and wall-mounted vanities instantly open up floor area in a bathroom. Removing bulky cabinets creates the illusion of more room while also allowing for easier cleaning. For additional functionality, consider fold-down wall mounts for hairdryers and other devices. Wall-mounted toilets and towel racks also conserve precious square footage. By limiting freestanding furnishings, you can optimize floor space.
Install Corner Shelving
Corners tend to be underutilized areas in bathrooms. Creative shelving transforms wasted space into functional storage. Right-angled units fit neatly into corners and have multiple shelves for toiletries, linens, and decor. Rotating corner shelves bring items within easy reach. Cover open shelves with pretty baskets to conceal clutter in style. For a high-end look, frame the area with crown molding. Corner shelves make perfect use of awkward angles.
Choose Space-Savvy Furnishings
The right furnishings can make all the difference in a petite powder room. Selecting narrow styles, like a slim console sink base, prevents a cramped appearance. For additional room, opt for an open vanity without doors below. This allows the plumbing and floor to show while eliminating bulky cabinetry. A tall and narrow cabinet by the toilet is perfect for rolled towels and supplies. Just be sure to measure carefully before purchasing. Scale down furnishings to suit the room.
Add Mirrors to Expand Space
Strategically placed mirrors visually enlarge a bathroom. Position across from windows to create the illusion of more natural light. You can also mirror an entire wall, like behind a long vanity, to simulate more depth. Frameless mirrors blend seamlessly into tile. For a decorative effect, lean an oversized mirror against a wall or hang a round mirror above a sink. The reflective quality of mirrors makes small bathrooms appear more spacious.
Install Creative Storage Solutions
Maximize every inch of available storage space. Attach caddies inside cabinet doors to neatly arrange bottles. Use hanging shelves inside shower stalls for bath accessories. Mounted shelves for extra toilet paper add functionality to vacant wall space. For laundry, stackable wall-mounted hampers free up floor area. Get creative with cubbies, shelving units, and specialized hardware like towel bars with integrated shelves. Thoughtful storage eases clutter in a streamlined way.
Select Multi-Functional Fixtures
Seek out fixtures that multitask, such as sinks with built-in soap dispensers and shelves. All-in-one units combine the toilet and sink, maximizing limited square footage. Showerheads with shelving create additional vertical storage. For grooming, choose a mirror cabinet that doubles as medicine and cosmetic storage. Even the toilet paper holder can pull double duty with added shelves. Dual-purpose fixtures eliminate bathroom clutter while optimizing every bit of space.
Install Space-Saving Doors
Doors that fold, slide, or pivot conserve precious floor space in a small bathroom. Pocket doors completely disappear into walls when open. Hinged doors can swing into a shower or cabinetry. Sliding barn doors stack out of the way. Saloon-style doors separate an area while allowing light and air to circulate. For a more contemporary look, use frosted glass doors. Space-conscious doors improve flow and prevent a cramped feeling.
Remove Permanent Obstructions
Any permanent obstacle, like a bulky vanity or intrusive pole, can make a modest bathroom feel more confined. Removing visual barriers opens up sightlines to lend an airy aesthetic. For example, a glass shower enclosure maintains the room’s open concept. Floating wood or glass shelves also refrain from cluttering floors. If possible, relocate plumbing, scale back built-ins, and eliminate unnecessary fixtures. Creating a minimalist, pared-down look maximizes square footage.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bathroom Space-Savers
Here are some common questions people have about saving space in small bathrooms:
How can I make my bathroom feel bigger?
Some easy ways to make a bathroom feel more spacious include installing a wall-mounted sink, large mirror, pocket or sliding doors, and glass shower doors. Strategic use of lighting also enhances the sense of openness. Remove clutter and scale down bulky furnishings.
What storage solutions work well in tight bathrooms?
Corner shelves, medicine cabinets, wall-mounted bins, under-sink organizers and narrow shelving units maximize storage in compact bathrooms. Also, utilize behind-door storage with caddies.
What design elements can make a small bathroom look larger?
Vivid colors, large tiles, and clever lighting visually expand space. To elongate the look of a bathroom, use vertical tiles on walls and floor-to-ceiling storage. Frameless glass shower doors also prevent a closed-in feeling.
How do I add more function to my tiny bathroom?
Dual purpose fixtures like a sink with built-in shelves add function without consuming more space. Other multi-functional items include mirrors with storage and shower caddies. Also, look for wall-mounted, space-saving options.
What remodeling changes can help maximize space?
Some excellent remodeling options include removing walls for an open concept, adding recessed shelving, installing pocket doors, using floating vanities, and relocating plumbing/electrical fixtures.
What layout works best for a small bathroom?
Optimal small bathroom layouts feature clean, uncluttered lines. Place fixtures efficiently on adjacent walls. A centered layout with sink, toilet, and shower/tub arranged in a line is a space-saving design.
How can I decorate my bathroom to enhance the feeling of space?
Use accent colors sparingly, large tiles, natural lighting, floating shelves, and expansive mirrors to make a bathroom appear more open. Reduce visual clutter. Incorporate vertical elements like subway tile and neutral, airy colors.
What should I avoid in a compact bathroom design?
Steer clear of dark colors, ornate trim, clutter, bulky cabinets and furnishings. Also avoid floor plans that disrupt flow or place fixtures too close together. Insufficient lighting and storage will make the space seem smaller.
Maximizing a Petite Bathroom: Key Takeaways
- Wall-mounted fixtures like sinks and toilets optimize square footage.
- Corner shelves perfectly utilize awkward, wasted space.
- Carefully scaled down furnishings prevent a cramped look.
- Mirrors visually enlarge a room by reflecting light and color.
- Multi-purpose fixtures maximize functionality.
- Space-saving doors improve layout and flow.
- Removing permanent visual barriers lends an airy aesthetic.
- Strategic storage solutions reduce clutter.
With some creativity, you can make the most of an undersized bathroom. The key is choosing space-saving fixtures and furnishings that consolidate storage and prevent clutter. Smart decorating tricks also make a compact bath feel more expansive. Use these tips to transform your modest bathroom into a well-designed oasis, no matter the square footage.
Conclusion
A small bathroom doesn’t have to limit your design options or functionality. As we’ve discussed, there are myriad clever ways to open up space, from wall-mounted fixtures to multi-functional furnishings. Strategically placed mirrors visually enlarge rooms, while space-conscious storage solutions reduce clutter. The layout, color scheme, and lighting also impact how expansive a modest bath feels. With smart planning and savvy design choices, you can maximize every inch to create a comfortable, beautiful bathroom, no matter the size.
The key is working within the existing footprint creatively. Scale down furnishings, remove bulky fixtures, utilize mirrors and lighting, and consolidate storage. Taking advantage of vertical real estate is also key in a space-challenged bath. With some innovative space-saving ideas, even the tiniest powder room can be a stylish, high-functioning oasis. Use these bathroom space-saving tips to transform a cramped layout into a spa-like retreat.
