How to Design and Remodel Your Small Bathroom

At Cameron Construction, we understand the challenges of small bathroom design and remodelling.

Transforming a cramped space into a functional and stylish oasis is no easy feat.

In this guide, we’ll share our expert tips on maximising space, choosing the right fixtures, and selecting colour schemes that make your small bathroom feel larger and more inviting.

How to Maximise Space in Small Bathrooms

Clever Storage Solutions

Small bathrooms present a design challenge, but with the right strategies, you can create a space that feels open, functional, and stylish. One of the most effective ways to maximise space is through smart storage. Wall-mounted cabinets and shelves utilise vertical space without consuming precious floor area. Install a recessed medicine cabinet to provide ample storage without protruding into the room. A 2023 Houzz Bathroom Trends Study reveals that the overwhelming majority of homeowners (87%) choose sustainable options for their renovated bathrooms, with LED lightbulbs being the most popular choice.

For daily-use items, floating shelves or a slim ladder shelf provide easy access without cluttering countertops. Don’t overlook the space above the toilet – an over-the-toilet storage unit can add significant capacity in an often-unused area.

Creating Visual Space

While physical expansion isn’t always possible, you can create the illusion of more space through clever design tricks. Large-format tiles can transform small bathrooms. In addition to its aesthetic and practical benefits, stone drenching can also enhance the perceived size of a bathroom.

Mirrors are another powerful tool for creating the illusion of space. A large mirror or a series of smaller mirrors reflect light and visually double the size of your bathroom. Consider extending a mirror wall-to-wall above your vanity for maximum impact.

Multi-Functional Fixtures

When space is at a premium, every element in your bathroom should serve multiple purposes. A vanity with built-in storage eliminates the need for separate storage units. Wall-mounted toilets not only save floor space but also make cleaning easier.

For those who enjoy a relaxing soak, consider a shower-tub combo. Modern designs provide the luxury of a bathtub without sacrificing the convenience of a shower.

Custom-built solutions often work best in small bathrooms. A made-to-measure vanity can maximise storage while fitting perfectly into your available space. In a small bathroom, every inch counts!

Now that we’ve explored ways to maximise space, let’s move on to choosing the right fixtures for your small bathroom. The right selections can make a significant difference in both functionality and aesthetics.

Selecting Fixtures for Compact Bathrooms

Space-Saving Toilets and Sinks

Wall-mounted toilets transform small bathrooms. They free up floor space and simplify cleaning. Some models save up to 10 inches compared to traditional toilets. Corner toilets fit snugly into tight spots, offering another compact solution.

For sinks, wall-mounted options or compact vanities with built-in storage excel. These provide necessary storage without sacrificing floor space. Some innovative sink designs incorporate the faucet into the basin, further reducing the footprint (a smart choice for ultra-small spaces).

Shower and Tub Solutions

In small bathrooms, showers often take precedence over tubs. Walk-in showers with frameless glass doors create an open feel and simplify cleaning. Japanese soaking tubs offer a luxurious bathing experience in a compact form for those who prefer baths.

Shower-tub combos with sliding glass doors (instead of curtains) work well for those wanting both options. This design choice maintains an open and bright feel.

Lighting Strategies

Proper lighting makes small bathrooms feel larger and more inviting. Recessed lighting doesn’t protrude into the room, making it an excellent option. Installing them in a grid pattern ensures even illumination.

Wall-mounted sconces on either side of the mirror provide ideal task lighting. This setup reduces face shadows, which improves activities like applying makeup or shaving.

Natural light dramatically impacts perceived space size. Windows or skylights (where possible) significantly brighten small bathroom designs.

Smart Storage Solutions

In compact bathrooms, every inch counts. Wall-mounted cabinets and shelves utilise vertical space without consuming precious floor area. Recessed medicine cabinets provide ample storage without protruding into the room.

For daily-use items, floating shelves or slim ladder shelves offer easy access without cluttering countertops. Over-the-toilet storage units add significant capacity in an often-unused area.

Multi-Functional Fixtures

Elements in small bathrooms should serve multiple purposes. Vanities with built-in storage eliminate the need for separate units. Wall-mounted toilets save floor space and simplify cleaning.

Space-efficient storage solutions for small bathrooms include floating vanities, wall-mounted cabinets/shelving units, and innovative use of vertical space. These custom-built solutions often work best in small bathrooms.

The right fixture selections transform tiny spaces into functional and stylish retreats. Next, we’ll explore how colour schemes and materials further enhance the sense of space in your small bathroom.

Transforming Small Bathrooms with Colour and Materials

Light Colours for an Airy Feel

Light colours transform small bathrooms into spacious and inviting areas. White, off-white, and pale pastels reflect light, which brightens the room and creates an open atmosphere. The National Association of Home Builders reports that 90% of homebuyers prefer light-coloured bathrooms (associating them with cleanliness and spaciousness).

Semi-gloss or high-gloss paint on walls reflects more light than matte options, which enhances the sense of space. To avoid a sterile look in an all-white bathroom, introduce subtle pops of colour through accessories or a feature wall.

Mirrors as Space Multipliers

Mirrors effectively double the perceived size of your space. A large mirror or a series of smaller mirrors can dramatically expand a small bathroom visually. For maximum impact, extend a mirror wall-to-wall above your vanity.

Position mirrors opposite windows to bounce natural light around the room. In windowless bathrooms, strategically placed mirrors create the illusion of depth and brightness when paired with good artificial lighting.

Tile Strategies for Visual Expansion

Tile size impacts the perception of space in small bathrooms. Knowing what size tile to get is almost as important as knowing what colour tile is best for a small bathroom. So do your research.

Diagonal floor tiles draw the eye across the space, making it appear larger. On walls, vertical tile patterns create the illusion of height, making the ceiling feel higher.

Patterns add interest without overwhelming the space. A subtle herringbone or chevron pattern works well (just keep the colour palette consistent for a cohesive look).

Glass tiles prove particularly effective in small bathrooms. Their reflective properties help bounce light around the room, contributing to a brighter, more open feel.

Material Choices for Spaciousness

The right materials enhance the sense of space in small bathrooms. Glossy surfaces, like polished marble or high-shine porcelain, reflect light and create depth. Textured materials, such as natural stone or wood-look tiles, add visual interest without cluttering the space.

Try light-coloured quartz or marble for countertops. These materials not only look luxurious but also reflect light, making the space feel larger. For shower enclosures, clear glass doors maintain an open feel and allow light to flow through the entire bathroom.

Lighting Strategies

Proper lighting makes small bathrooms feel larger and more inviting. Recessed lighting doesn’t protrude into the room, making it an excellent option. Install them in a grid pattern to ensure even illumination.

Wall-mounted sconces on either side of the mirror provide ideal task lighting. This setup reduces face shadows, which improves activities like applying makeup or shaving.

Natural light dramatically impacts perceived space size. Windows or skylights (where possible) significantly brighten small bathroom designs.

Final Thoughts

Small bathroom design and remodelling requires careful planning and execution. We transform compact spaces into functional and stylish retreats through smart storage solutions, visual illusions, and the right fixtures, colours, and materials. Light colours, strategic mirror placement, and clever tile patterns create an open and airy atmosphere, while proper lighting enhances the sense of space and functionality.

Professional expertise plays a vital role in successful small bathroom renovations. Cameron Construction brings decades of experience to every project, ensuring your vision aligns with your lifestyle needs. Our team of experts (including designers, engineers, and interior advisers) collaborates to create tailored solutions that maximise space and functionality.

A well-designed small bathroom can significantly impact your home’s value and daily comfort. You can create a space that feels larger than its actual dimensions through optimised layout, efficient fixtures, and carefully selected materials. This enhances your living experience and appeals to potential buyers if you decide to sell your home in the future.