How to Lay Out a 100-Square-Foot Bathroom

Designing a small bathroom can be a challenge, but with some planning and clever layout techniques, you can create an efficient and stylish space. This guide will provide tips for maximizing a 100-square-foot bathroom, from layout ideas to storage solutions.

Assess Your Needs

Before starting the design process, take time to consider how you want to use the space. Make a list of must-haves like a shower, tub, toilet, and sink. Also note desired features like storage, a mirror, lighting, ventilation, and accessories. This will help inform the layout.

Consider who will use the bathroom and how often. Will it be a powder room or a more heavily used family bath? Understanding usage can help determine the best layout to accommodate different needs.

Choose the Right Layout

With a 100-square-foot bathroom, layout is key to creating a functional space. Here are some common layout options to consider:

Single Wall

This simple layout puts fixtures along one wall. It works best in a narrow rectangular room.

• Pros: Efficient use of space, easy to clean
• Cons: Limited storage, tight access between fixtures

L-Shaped

Fixtures follow two adjacent walls in an L shape. This adds some space between fixtures.

• Pros: Privacy, room for storage, accessible
• Cons: Wasted space in corners

Galley

In this linear layout, fixtures run along two facing walls. It works well in long, narrow baths.

• Pros: Efficient, flexible, easy access
• Cons: Traffic flow can be tight

Corner Shower

The shower fits diagonally into a corner, opening up floor space.

• Pros: Space-efficient, allows room for furniture
• Cons: Tight squeeze in corner shower

Once you choose a layout, mark it on a floor plan to visualize traffic flow and access. Tweak as needed to optimize usefulness and comfort.

Select Space-Saving Fixtures

To maximize room in a small bath, choose compact yet functional fixtures. Here are some options:

Toilets

• Round bowl toilets take up less space than elongated bowls.
• Wall-mounted models save space and easy cleaning.
• Shorter toilets like 13-15” high fit under windows.

Sinks

• Vessel sinks don’t require counter space.
• Pedestal sinks are narrow and stand alone.
• Corner sinks optimize triangular spaces.
• Wall-mount or floating sinks are space savers.

Showers

• Corner showers utilize wasted space.
• Neo-angle showers can fit into tight corners.
• Frameless glass doors provide an open look.
• Curbless showers offer roll-in access.

Bathtubs

• Short tubs (48-60”) work for small baths.
• Corner tubs efficiently fill a triangle corner.
• Slipper tubs have one short, space-saving end.

Measure the bathroom and research options to find pieces that will fit. Look for multipurpose pieces like a vanity with built-in storage.

Maximize Vertical Space

In a compact bath, utilize all available vertical space through floor to ceiling storage and mounting fixtures higher on walls. Consider these vertical storage ideas:

• Tall narrow cabinets for linens, toiletries, first aid.
• Floating shelves over the toilet for decor, candles, baskets.
• Medicine cabinets with mirrors for storage and light.
• Wall-mounted bathroom organizers and roll-out shelves.
• High mounted rods for hanging towels or robes.

Place often-used items at reasonable heights. Store lesser-used items up high or down low.

Choose Multi-Functional Furniture

Look for vanities, cabinets, and shelving that perform double duty in small bathrooms.

• Vanities with drawers, cabinets, and open shelving provide abundant storage.
• Wall-mounted cabinets over the toilet add space for towels and toiletries.
• Shelving unit under a window can hold towels, decor, and plants.
• Slim rolling cart holds extra towels and cleans up easily.
• Mirrors that double as medicine cabinets gain storage space.

Optimize every piece of furniture with baskets, trays, and organizational compartments.

Use Space-Saving Materials

Strategic material selection can also maximize space in small bathrooms:

• Glass shower doors maintain an open look.
• Wall-mounted faucets and fixtures keep counters clear.
• A pedestal sink is less bulky than a vanity.
• Mirrored walls visually expand the space.
• Glossy subway tile reflects light to create spaciousness.
• Radiant heated floors warm without bulky radiators.
• Floating wood or laminate flooring avoids floor trim.

Gain Storage Solutions

One major challenge in a petite bath is finding a place for all those toiletries, towels, and cleaning essentials. Get creative with storage to keep necessities accessible but out of sight.

Hidden Storage

Tuck storage into unexpected spots:

• Recessed cubbies into the wall for rolled towels.
• Narrow niche behind the door for grooming tools.
• Mirror storage cabinets for medicine, cosmetics.
• Base of pedestal sink for cleaning supplies.
• Space under a window bench for extra toilet paper.

Multipurpose Furniture

Use furniture that pulls double duty:

• Vanity with drawers and cabinets for toiletries.
• Wall cabinets over toilet with baskets for rolls and spray.
• Towel ladder that adds shelving or hooks.
• Slim hutch for folded washcloths and hand towels.

Organizers

Keep a cluttered look at bay with caddies and racks:

• Hanging shower caddy for shampoo, soap, razors.
• Under-sink organizer for cleaning supplies.
• Over-toilet shelf with baskets for spare items.
• Drawer organizers for makeup, medicines, tools.
• Towel bar with built-in shelf for creams, soaps.

Choose Multi-functional Fixtures and Furnishings

Since space is at a premium, look for fixtures and furnishings in your 100-square foot bathroom that can serve multiple purposes. Here are some ideas:

• Vanity cabinet – Choose a vanity with drawers and cabinets for concealed storage. Open shelving can hold rolled towels and toiletries on display.
• Medicine cabinet – Mount a mirrored medicine cabinet to gain storage and add lighting.
• Towel ladder – A slim ladder style towel rack can hold rolled towels on rungs and provide a shelf up top for decorative items.
• Storage ottoman – Use a small storage ottoman in place of a bulky vanity. It provides a spot to sit when getting dressed.
• Floating shelves – Wall mounted shelves over the toilet or above the bath can hold toiletries, candles, and small decor.
• Sink skirts – Skirts under a pedestal or wall-mounted sink can hide cleaning supplies or a small trash can.
• Shower niches – Built-in shower niches provide space for shampoo, soap, and razors so they don’t clutter up ledges.
• Robe hook – Install a hook on the back of the door for hanging robes and towels.

Choose Space-Saving Materials

Using the right materials can help you maximize every inch in a small bathroom. Consider using these space-saving materials:

• Glass shower doors – Frameless glass shower doors open up a small space and allow light to permeate.
• Mirrored walls – Strategically placed mirrors reflect light and create the illusion of more space. Avoid making the space feel cramped.
• Radiant floor heating – Heated floors provide warmth without bulky radiators or venting.
• Pocket doors – Pocket doors slide into the wall to save space over traditional swing doors.
• Pedestal sink – A pedestal sink provides an open look without vanity cabinet bulk.
• Vessel sink – Vessel sinks sit on top of the counter, which can be narrower than a traditional vanity top.
• Barn door – A sliding barn door maximizes floor space in a small bath.
• Space-saving tile – Use rectangular tile vertically to make ceilings appear taller. Small tiles help floors look larger.

Create Clever Storage Solutions

Finding places for towels, toiletries, and other necessities is tricky in a tiny bath. Use these clever storage ideas:

Hidden Storage

• Build out a recessed niche in the wall for rolled towels or toiletries.
• Install cubbies into the wall behind the toilet for rolls and spray cleaner.
• Use the space under a window bench or ledge for neatly folded extra towels.
• Tuck a narrow drawer under the sink vanity for tools like tweezers and razors.

Multi-Tasking Furniture

• Choose a sink vanity with built-in drawers and cabinets for ample storage.
• Opt for a medicine cabinet with mirrors and shelving behind the door.
• Use a ladder style towel rack that also provides a handy shelf.
• Place a slim storage cabinet or shelving unit over the toilet area.

Concealed Organizers

• Use caddies and organizer bins that tuck into cabinets and drawers to corral items.
• Install sliding organizers under the sink to access cleaning supplies.
• Attach a hanging shower caddy on the shower head pipe for easy access.
• Add removable baskets to open vanity shelving for a tidy look.

Make Smart Lighting Choices

Proper lighting is essential in a small bathroom where natural light is often limited.

• Windows – If possible, add a window or skylight to allow natural light to fill the space.
• Overhead lighting – Install fixtures like recessed cans and track lighting overhead to brightly illuminate the room.
• Task lighting – Use targeted task lighting like pendant lights over sinks and vanities where grooming tasks occur.
• Ambient lighting – Include ambient lighting like wall sconces or undercabinet lights to provide a soft glow.
• Dimmers – Use dimmers to adjust light levels for different tasks and activities.
• Night light – Install a low-level night light to safely navigate nighttime trips without harsh overhead lights.
• Mirrored medicine cabinets – Position mirrored medicine cabinets strategically to reflect and amplify lighting.

Accentuate with Color

Color choices can make all the difference in a petite bath. Here are some tips:

• Stick with light, bright, neutral colors like white, off-white, light gray, or beige on the walls, ceilings, and floors to reflect light and create spaciousness.
• Add pops of color with towels, shower curtains, and accessories. Focus on one color like blue, green, or yellow for a soothing accent.
• If using a dark color, use it sparingly on one wall as an accent. Dark colors can make a small space feel closed in.
• Use high-gloss tiles or paint to reflect light and make the room feel larger. Matte finishes absorb light and can feel cave-like.
• Paint the ceiling bright white to make it visually recede. A dark ceiling will feel oppressive.
• Horizontal stripes visually widen walls. Vertical stripes emphasize height. Keep stripes thin to avoid busyness.

Include Clever Touches

It’s the little things that can make a small bath feel special. Include personal touches like:

• Floating corner shelves for plants and meaningful objects
• Narrow vertical mirror placed strategically to widen the look
• Painted wainscoting or chair rail molding to add interest
• Frame around the mirror to create a focal point
• Curtain over the window for texture and softness
• Gallery wall with photos, art, or framed prints
• Closed cabinet doors to conceal clutter
• Hooks on the door for hanging robes and towels
• Slim hutch for neatly folded washcloths and hand towels
• Woven basket under the sink for organic storage

Make it Multifunctional

Embrace multi-use spaces and furniture to maximize function.

• Use a corner shower with built-in shelving for shampoo and shower necessities
• Add a slim storage cabinet above the toilet for extra towels and toilet paper
• Choose a vanity with a cabinet to store appliances and a drawer for organization
• Use the vanity counter space for folding laundry in a pinch
• Opt for a medicine cabinet with mirrors and shelving behind the door
• Install shelving above the toilet to hold decorative baskets
• Use the windowsill for storage or a place to hold toiletries while in use
• Include a mirror on the wall, in addition to the medicine cabinet mirror
• Add a storage ottoman or bench by the vanity to hold blankets, towels, or a plant

Conclusion

While a 100-square-foot bathroom presents some challenges, it certainly can provide a comfortable, convenient, and beautiful space with proper planning. Focusing on a space-saving layout, compact fixtures, storage solutions, multi-functional features, and light enhancing elements are the keys to success. With clever and creative design choices, you can produce a small but mighty bathroom that makes the most of every inch.