Transforming Small Bathrooms: Top Tips and Tricks
Transformative minor bathroom designs to create a fashion-forward ambiance in limited areas
Small bathrooms don't need to be cluttered or cramped! With a bit of creativity, you can transform yours into a chic, spacious retreat. Our team of interior design experts at our platform have gathered some brilliant small bathroom ideas to help you elevate your humble space.
Small Bathroom Ideas
'A small bathroom needn't compromise on aesthetics,' says James Roberts, director at Sanctuary Bathrooms. 'Through clever storage, layout, and use of color, even the tiniest bathrooms can be stylish and spectacular.'
Here are our top suggestions to help you create a small bathroom that's the envy of all your friends.
1. Opt for a Neutral Palette
Neutral colors such as beige, linen, and mushroom can create a spa-inspired scheme in small bathrooms. To add depth and interest, layer different textures like limewash walls, light-reflecting tiles, and light fixtures.
2. Embrace Alternative Bathroom Cabinets
Finding bathroom cabinet ideas to suit small bathrooms can be tricky. Yet, cupboard curtains are perfect for concealing storage without taking up space. This trend leans on traditional, chintzy interiors for inspiration.
3. Consider a Shower Bath
Walk-in showers might not be an option in smaller bathrooms. However, you can still create a dreamy bathroom by opting for a shower bath. Specially designed baths (L or P-shaped) can provide a larger area when showering. If you fancy a freestanding tub/shower combo, consider a riser kit or a ceiling-mounted shower.
4. Don't Neglect the Finer Details
Finer details can make a big impact in a small bathroom. Handle styles, illuminated mirrors, and reflective surfaces like gloss cabinets or floors can reflect light around the room and enhance a sense of space.
5. Play with Tiles
Optimizing visual space in small bathrooms can be achieved by tricking the eye. Tiling the side of your bath and the wall with the same design can blur the boundaries and make your space feel larger. Consider playing with tile sizes (large format tiles can elongate a small bathroom).
6. Utilize Window Ledges
Whether you want to store boxes or showcase a potted plant, window ledges can be a fantastic small bathroom storage idea. Make the most of ledges next to baths or windows to place accessories or organization systems.
7. Maintain a Cool Colour Scheme
Neutral Pastel shades like taupe, cream, and white can make a small bathroom feel brighter and larger. Experiment with painted furniture, accessories, and fixtures to add personality.
8. Choose Earthy Tones
For a more trendy look, opt for earthy tones like terracotta and burnt orange. Pale terracotta for walls and deeper shades elsewhere create a calming, stylish atmosphere.
9. Consider a Wet Room
A stylish wet room can maximize space in small bathrooms, especially during loft or attic conversions. Wet rooms eliminate the need for shower enclosures or bulky shower trays. They can blend seamlessly into the bathroom's aesthetics.
10. Dare to Go Dark
While white or light colors are traditionally recommended for small spaces, darker shades can also work in small bathrooms with the right approach. Balance dark paint and tiles with light fixtures, mirrors, and reflective surfaces to prevent the room from feeling too enclosed.
11. Mix and Match Materials
Combining materials like marble, concrete, and wood in your bathroom can create a unique and stylish appearance. Marble or stone-topped bathroom basins can tie together various design elements by having a consistent, elevated look.
12. Use Mirrors Wisely
Hanging large mirrors over your bathroom basin or walls can help bounce light around the room and create an illusion of space. A single mirror can make a statement, or if you have space, consider a whole wall of mirrors.
13. Slimline Bathroom Fixtures
If space is limited, employment of slimline fixtures like a narrow sink with side-mounted taps can help free up valuable space.
14. Opt for an Oval Bath
While not as common, an oval bath can be a great space-saving option when compared to a traditional rectangular bath. An oval bath can also be shallower, allowing for additional surface space for decorative elements.
15. Wall-Mounted Storage Units
Wall-mounted modular furniture is perfect for storage in small bathrooms. You can create custom pieces that best suit your available space and choose from various colors, textures, and heights.
16. Get Creative with Tiling
Use statement tile choices, like a unique pattern or bold color, to create interest without overpowering the space. Opt for larger tiles instead of smaller ones to create an open, spacious look.
17. Match Tiles on Floors and Walls
Using the same tiles on floors and walls can create a seamless look, making the space feel larger. Consider large-scale floor and wall tiles for a modern, sleek aesthetic.
18. Statement Wallpaper
Quirky or interesting wallpaper can add personality to a small bathroom. For a cloakroom or downstairs bathroom, consider using exotic or bold patterns to draw the eye and create a focal point.
19. Monochromatic Palette
Maintain a monochrome scheme and add color, texture, and pattern with out-there accessories. White walls and black fixtures can be striking, providing a clean and modern aesthetic.
20. Utilize Eaves Space
If your bathroom is located in a loft or attic, don't shy away from making the most of the eaves space. Creative storage solutions like loop-in wall cabinets or fitted shelves can help utilize every inch of the limited space.
By incorporating these small bathroom ideas, you can unlock your space's potential and achieve a stunning, functional bathroom optimized for your needs.
- To enhance storage in small bathrooms, opt for unique solutions like shower enclosures with cupboard curtains, which can conceal storage items without taking up space.
- When it comes to the color scheme of your small bathroom, consider incorporating lifestyle elements, such as using fashion-and-beauty-inspired colors or trendy earthy tones to create a calming and stylish atmosphere.
- To maximize visual space in small bathrooms, adopt interior design strategies like using large-format tiles or matching tiles on floors and walls for a seamless and spacious aesthetic. Additionally, consider utilizing home-and-garden-related designs, such as organizing window ledges to store accessories or plant containers.
