Transforming a cramped bathroom into a relaxing oasis is possible, even in a small space. With clever design tricks and strategic choices, bathrooms measuring 40 to 50 square feet can feel open and inviting. Here are five stunning before-and-after bathroom remodels that prove small can be stylish.
Introduction
Bathrooms are one of the most used spaces in a home, yet they are often very compact. The average bathroom size in the US is around 50 square feet. Working with a petite footprint presents challenges but also opportunities to get creative. With smart layouts and space-saving features, tiny bathrooms can be turned into beautiful, functional rooms.
From brightening dark spaces to optimizing storage, we’ll explore five makeovers of bathrooms roughly 40 to 50 square feet. These clever renovations demonstrate how to transform cramped, dated bathrooms into contemporary and relaxing oases—no matter the square footage.
Brighten Up a Dark, Dated Bathroom
The Before
This first bathroom was dark and visibly outdated. The space featured a separate tub and shower taking up prime real estate. Dingy tiles, worn fixtures, poor lighting, and dark paint colors made it feel small and dismal.
The After
To brighten and modernize, the shower and tub were replaced with a roomy walk-in shower. Crisp white subway tiles and paint helped reflect light. The vanity was swapped for a clean-lined floating style. New sconces, pendant lighting, and a window further illuminated the space.
Key Takeaways
- White paint and tiles help bounce light around and make rooms feel larger.
- A walk-in shower opens up floor space in a compact bathroom.
- Well-placed lighting is essential in windowless bathrooms.
Increase Storage in a Bathroom Lacking Cabinets
The Before
The next bathroom was seriously lacking in storage. With no medicine cabinet, vanity, or cabinetry, there was minimal space to tuck away necessities. Mismatched tiles and dated lighting added to the need for an update.
The After
Clever solutions transformed this bathroom. A wall-hung floating vanity freed up floor area. Sleek shelves and built-in niches provided abundant storage. Containers under the sink hid extra toiletries. A clean color palette of white, gray, and wood tones kept the space feeling open.
Key Takeaways
- Floating vanities are great space-savers in petite bathrooms. Look for wall-mounted or slender styles.
- Take advantage of all vertical storage opportunities with shelving, medicine cabinets, and wall niches.
- Baskets and containers under the sink neatly corral extra items.
Upgrade a Tired Powder Room’s Style
The Before
This compact powder room was sorely in need of a style upgrade. From the worn linoleum floors to the boxy vanity, everything was looking outdated and nondescript. Dim lighting didn’t help matters.
The After
Sleek contemporary elements transformed the space. Hexagonal floor tiles injected interest underfoot, while a floating vanity maximized floor area. Sconces provided ample task lighting. Pops of teal—on the walls, accessories, and art—gave the room a colorful, modern personality.
Key Takeaways
- Use bold paint colors or accessories to add personality to a petite powder room.
- Floating vanities keep floors looking clean and spacious.
- Hexagonal or mosaic floor tiles can make rooms feel more expansive.
Design a Bathroom That Feels Spa-Like
The Before
In this mid-century bathroom, virtually all the original features remained. From the chrome and pastel blue color scheme to the dated tile work, it was locked in the 1950s. The layout was also inefficient, with the toilet cramped into a tiny corner.
The After
To create a peaceful, spa-like retreat, the layout was reconfigured. The toilet was moved to open up space. An oval freestanding tub replaced the corner unit. Creamy off-white paint and marble accents provided a soft, luxurious feel. Pendant lighting, greenery, and art finished the zen vibe.
Key Takeaways
- Painting walls, trim, and ceilings the same color makes rooms appear larger.
- Freestanding tubs can maximize space compared to built-in alcoves.
- Potted plants, soft lighting, and artwork encourage relaxation.
Makeover a Rental Bathroom on a Budget
The Before
As a rental bathroom, this space was looking worn with limited potential for a full renovation. The outdated blue tile, mismatched fixtures, and plastic shower curtain all needed improvement.
The After
With mostly cosmetic changes, this bathroom was reinvented. Peel-and-stick tile created the look of subway tiles without remodeling. A tension shower rod and new shower curtain upgraded the tub area. New faucets and light fixtures also helped modernize the space.
Key Takeaways
- Peel-and-stick tiles can mimic high-end finishes without installing the real thing.
- Tension rods and stylish shower curtains transform plain tubs.
- Painting cabinets, replacing fixtures and hardware, and adding accessories can make rentals feel fresh.
Conclusion
These small but mighty bathroom makeovers prove that big style is possible, even in 40 to 50 square feet. By employing clever layouts, space-saving elements, and strategic design choices, cramped bathrooms can be completely transformed. Lighter paint, improved storage, floating vanities, and spa-like accents are some of the many ways to make petite bathrooms both beautiful and functional. With smart solutions, you can create a bathroom that looks and feels so much larger than its footprint.
FAQs about Small Yet Stylish Bathroom Makeovers
What are some key principles for designing a small bathroom?
Some important principles for small bathrooms include using light colors to visually expand the space, floating vanities and open shelving for airy appeal, large-scale floor tiles to make rooms feel bigger, and space-saving walk-in showers. Also focus on lighting, multipurpose furniture, and hidden storage wherever possible.
What are good paint colors for a small bathroom?
Light, neutral paint colors like white, off-white, light gray, and soft blue are ideal for small bathrooms. Avoid dark colors, which can make the space feel closed in. Stick to one color scheme to create a seamless look.
How can I make a tiny bathroom appear more spacious?
Use a pedestal sink or floating vanity to open up floor space. Install large, reflective tiles on walls and floors. Add a frameless glass shower enclosure. Use vertical storage like floor-to-ceiling shelving. Install recessed lighting in the ceiling. Place a mirror above the sink to reflect more light.
What types of sinks work best in 40-50 sq ft bathrooms?
Vessel, pedestal, and floating sinks with thin silhouettes keep small bathrooms looking uncluttered. Wall-hung styles add perceived space since they don’t touch the floor. Built-in sinks take up less room than standalone vanities.
Should I get a shower/tub combo or just a shower stall in a petite bathroom?
In most cases, just a shower is the better choice for small bathrooms. Showers take up less space than tubs. Walk-in showers with no door feel especially spacious. If you want both, consider a tub/shower combo. Alcove tubs surrounded by walls limit space for other items though.
What storage solutions maximize space in a tiny bathroom?
Make use of all vertical space with tall cabinets, floating shelves, and medicine cabinets. Use stackable containers, slide-out drawers, and trays under the sink. Install a recessed niche in the wall for shampoo. Try a space-saving corner cabinet. Multipurpose furniture like a sink vanity with internal shelves boosts storage.
