Create the illusion of a bigger bathroom. - by Olivia Hart
Renovating a small bathroom can be tricky. You don't want to compromise on style, but you also don’tto wind up with a space that feels cramped.
WATCH: Juliet Love renovates an 80s-style bathroom
Luckily, some simple renovation tips help create the illusion of space. Planning is essential for small bathrooms, from layout to floor plans to storage ideas.
Here are some top tips for maximising space with a small bathroom design.
1. Storage ideas
Mirrored cabinetsare a space saver when it comes to small bathrooms. Not only do they look great but the extra storage allows for clear benchtops and surfaces.
Instagram / @tim_scbrg
2. Wall mounted taps
If possible, wall mounting your taps can save you a lot of space. "If you have a small vanity, opting for wall mounted taps will allow for a narrower sink, giving you a wider walkway so you can stand comfortably while brushing your teeth," says Wesley Sinclair fromHighgrove Bathrooms.Additionally,wall-hung basins are a great option as they can fit into small space and free up wall space.
Installing a mirror, whether it’s floor to ceiling or wall to wall can make the room look bigger. As Wesley explains: "The right mirror can almost magically broaden the size of a room, regardless if no other alterations have been made - so don’t be afraid to expand the size of your mirror."
Instagram / @mylightingsource
4. Install a shower screen
Skip the shower door and install a frameless panel shower screen. Your bathroom will feel much more spacious with a new age look as well.
If you're worried about the floor getting wet, installing a dual-sided shower drain allows water to be efficiently drained from a larger area, preventing water buildup and reducing the risk of clogs.
Stormtech delivers the perfect bathroom drainage solution, featuring a dual-sided shower drain with glass screen support. Not only are they stylish and functional, but the award winning designs in a range of luxurious colours and finishes.
5. Use larger tiles
Larger tiles are key when it comes to creating the illusion of a bigger bathroom."By incorporating large tiles and patterns into a small bathroom, it tricks the eye into seeing extensive latitude," Wesley said. "With less grouting and lines to break up the visual, your bathroom will appear broader with a higher ceiling."
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6. Decorate with light colours
White or neutral colours are best for a small bathroom. "Light coloured floor and walls always make a room seem larger than it actually is."If you don’t want to add colour, you can do so with your towels and other accessories.
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7. Install ceiling lights
Probably the most underrated "trick" when trying to create the illusion of space. Wesley says, "Try flush mounted ceiling lights for the perception of greater space oraddlighting around the vanity to brighten up that area - a lighted mirror or tape lighting on cabinets and vanity tops will do the trick."
Instagram / @hadiyahlove
8. Natural light
Increasing natural light in bathrooms with windows is a great way to open up a room. If you are looking for privacy opt for shutters over frosted glass.
Instagram / @originbathrooms
9. Shower and bath combo
Just because you have a small space it doesn't mean you should miss out on one of life's greatest luxuries: the bathtub. Look for a shower and bath combination to maximise space and add a touch of luxe.
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10. Round sinks
Ovals sinks are perfect for small bathrooms as they are softer than round sinks and gives you more counter space than a square sink.
Instagram / @designstuff
11. Sliding doors
Sliding doors are a must when it comes to any small space, when open they take up less space allowing extra space.
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12. Ledges
Ledges are a great way to add in some extra storage without compromising on looks. Add a ledge below the sinkor above toilet with your daily essentials - soap, hand cream etc.) as it won't take up as much floor space.
Instagram / @thuisbijsuus
13. Function is key
In any small space, put function first. Stackable baskets not only look great but are also a greatway to store your spare linen and extra toilet paper.
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14. Indoor plants
Add a splash of colour and life to your bathroom with an indoor plant or two, they help to purify the air and open up the space.Make sure you pick a plant that will be able to withstand the bathroom conditions.
According to basic design principles, light colors such as white, crème, pastel blue, gray or yellow are all recommended colors to paint a small bathroom in order to visually expand a room, while dark colors such as a deep red, green or brown, will make a room feel smaller.
Also, a huge mirror and shower door helps to create this illusion. Use a light neutral paint hue to make a small bathroom feel luxurious. If you spend extra on high-quality white towels and carpets, a tiny bathroom will make your bathroom luxurious.
In a tiny bathroom such as a half-bathroom or powder room, space is at a premium. So, it may only be possible to provide for the bare minimum clearances. In this case, make sure that the center line of the toilet is at least 15 inches from the nearest wall or sink. Eighteen inches is preferred.
Soothing neutrals in blue, green, and gray will help create a relaxing, spa-like vibe for your bathroom. Look for colors inspired by nature like soft sage, sky blue, and ash gray. If you prefer warmer colors, opt for a pale yellow, warm beige, or even a delicate blush color to give the space a welcoming glow.
White paint is always a great choice when it comes to creating the illusion of a bigger bathroom. "Lighter colors reflect light easily, which gives the room a bigger appearance," says Piercy.
It's a common mistake to use smaller floor tiles in a small bathroom. This actually makes the room look smaller as it creates more dividing lines between the tiles. Choosing a large, plain-coloured tile will give the impression of more floor space and a cleaner, less cluttered look.
Consider utilizing wall-mounted towel racks or hooks to maximize vertical space. Install them near the shower to keep towels within easy reach without taking up valuable floor space. Another tip for small bathrooms is to utilize the back of your bathroom door.
Tuck the toilet behind the door or place it to the side where it's not in full view when you open the bathroom door. When planning the position of your toilet, allow at least 20cm on either side for elbow room.
Plan a clear floor space of at least 30 inches from the front edge of all fixtures (lavatory, toilet, bidet, tub, and shower) to any opposite bath fixture, wall, or obstacle. Code Requirements: A minimum space of 21 inches must be planned in front of the lavatory, toilet, bidet, and tub.
Clearance: At least 24" of space is needed in front of a shower or tub entry. Leave at least 15" of space between the shower and toilet or other obstacle. If you have a swinging door, take into consideration nearby fixtures.
A half bathroom, also known as a powder room, is the smallest and most space-efficient bathroom, as it contains only a sink and a toilet. You will often find this type of bathroom located near the kitchen, living room, or hallway, to offer residents and guests easy and convenient access.
If you can fit a shower stall, go for it—but if not, consider installing a moveable shower head that can be attached to your bathtub. Secondly, consider storage. Storage is key in small bathroom ideas, so be sure to install some shelves or cabinets over the toilet or along one wall. And don't forget about lighting!
Some cloakroom bathrooms can be as small as 1500mm x 800mm, and will solely fit a sink and a toilet. However, size isn't everything! Samantha Lawson, senior design consultant here at Drench claims: “The smallest bathroom we've worked with was 1700mm x 800mm and just included a shower enclosure, basin and WC.
The colors used in a home can have a significant impact on potential buyers. According to a survey by Zillow, homes with blue bathrooms sold for an average of $5,400 more than those with white bathrooms.
They also have the added advantage of making the room look bigger as white reflects light better than any other colour. As most bathroom fixtures tend to be white, this also creates a more seamless, unbroken look throughout the space.
Opting for lighter hues like soft whites, pale grays, or light natural wood tones can visually expand the room, making it feel more open and airy. These colors reflect light effectively, creating a brighter and more inviting atmosphere, ideal for smaller bathrooms or spaces with limited natural light.
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