Introduction
Creating an open and airy feeling in a small bathroom can be a design challenge, but this week’s featured bathroom shows it can be done beautifully. At just 50 square feet, this space makes the most of every inch to deliver spa-like tranquility. Through clever layout and the creative use of materials, textures, and lighting, the design achieves a light and relaxing vibe. Join us as we explore how the designer transformed a cramped footprint into a soothing sanctuary.
Layout and Storage Solutions
One of the keys to opening up a small bathroom is layout. This space positions the tub/shower along one wall and utilizes a vanity spanning the opposite wall. The toilet is tucked discretely behind the door. By avoiding bulky furnishings and unnecessary built-ins, the floor plan maintains open sight lines.
Storage is maximized with floating shelves and a slender console under the window. The vanity provides two drawers for ample concealed storage. The medicine cabinet over the vanity offers additional organized storage without cluttering the room.
Materials and Textures
Strategic material and texture choices also contribute to the airy ambiance. The vanity cabinetry has a matte white finish that reflects light without looking sterile. Quartz was selected for the vanity top and tub surround for its resilience and smooth texture.
The shower floor and walls use large-scale porcelain tile in creamy hues. Its soft variation and matte finish avoid a stark, monotonous look. Pebble-shaped porcelain mosaic tile on the floor adds visual interest while maintaining the soft vibe.
Bathroom of the Week: An Open Feeling in 50 Square Feet
The one dark accent in the room is the wood-grained tile wainscoting. Its rich tone provides just enough contrast without overwhelming the space. The linear pattern also draws the eye up, giving the illusion of added height.
Lighting
Lighting plays a critical role in creating brightness and openness. The large window over the vanity floods the room with natural light. To avoid shadows, it has a translucent roller shade rather than heavy draperies.
Task lighting at the vanity is provided by sleek sconces mounted horizontally to emphasize the room’s width. The shower niche has its own discreet light as well. The overall effect is diffused illumination without dark corners or hot spots.
Accessories and Finishes
Even the smallest details contribute to the tranquil atmosphere. Matte black plumbing fixtures and accessories add subtle contrast without visual weight. The round mirror plays up the soft curves echoes in the other finishes. A singlefloating shelf provides space for carefully curated accessories without clutter.
The neutral color palette invites the addition of pops of color through towels, art, or greenery. The overall effect channels the feeling of a spa—calm, soothing, and timeless.
Key Takeaways
This bath proves a small space can feel open and inviting with careful planning. A few of the top tips include:
- Utilize clean sight lines through strategic layout and minimal furnishings
- Select finishes and textures that reflect light and avoid stark contrast
- Diffuse abundant natural and task lighting throughout
- Warm up hard surfaces with natural materials like wood
- Edit ruthlessly and include storage that disappears into the design
- Allow for pops of color through towels, art and accessories
With creativity and spatial ingenuity, even a 50 square foot bathroom can become a luxurious retreat. This dazzling design offers inspiration for opening up small spaces.
FAQ About Designing an Open Bathroom in 50 Square Feet
How can I make my small bathroom look bigger?
- Use lighter colors on walls, tile, and fixtures
- Include large mirrors to reflect light and create illusion of space
- Install window treatments high and wide to draw eye up
- Arrange fixtures along perimeter to keep floor open
- Opt for sleek, narrow fittings and furnishings
- Include glass doors on shower
What type of tile works best in small bathrooms?
- Large-scale tile with thin grout lines helps walls appear wider
- Neutral colored tile reflects light and makes space feel larger
- Glossy or polished finishes add luminosity
- Classic white subway tile is a timeless choice
- Mini mosaics can feel busy, so use sparingly
What kind of storage should I include in a tiny bathroom?
- Floating shelves provide open storage without clutter
- Medicine cabinets offer hidden storage behind mirrors
- Narrow consoles fit tight spaces between studs
- Drawers in vanity maximize space efficiency
- Baskets or bins fit in hard-to-use areas
How can I make a small bathroom feel brighter?
- Install the largest window possible
- Choose low-profile window treatments such as blinds
- Use ample lighting, both natural and installed
- Select light bulbs that provide brightness without glare
- Add mirrors and reflective surfaces to maximize light
- Paint the ceiling white to reflect light downward
Should I get a shower curtain or glass door in a small bathroom?
- Glass doors take up less visual space when open
- Choose frameless doors for a sleek, seamless look
- Use clear or lightly patterned glass to continue open feel
- Add a quality shower curtain with weighted hem and subtle pattern
- Install curtain rod higher and wider than opening to draw eye up
What type of vanity works best in 50 square feet?
- Floating style takes up less floor space
- Wall-mounted vanities open up floor area
- Slender console styles fit in tight areas
- Skip ornate details for a streamlined silhouette
- Drawers and closed storage hide clutter
Conclusion
This issue’s Bathroom of the Week proves that a serene, spa-like retreat is possible even in a compact footprint. By implementing space-enhancing layout and design techniques, the bath feels soothing rather than cramped. It offers inspiration for opening up any tiny bath through strategic planning and creative solutions. With the designer’s tips in mind, you can transform your modest bathroom into a private sanctuary for renewal and relaxation. We hope you’ve enjoyed this look at small space transcended through good design.
