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6 Ways to Remodel Your Small Bathroom

November 23, 2023

Emma Bousfield

Here are six strategies you can implement into your next bathroom remodel, and they’re tailored specifically for homeowners looking to optimize their limited space.

6 Ways to Remodel Your Small Bathroom

Here are six strategies you can implement into your next bathroom remodel, and they’re tailored specifically for homeowners looking to optimize their limited space.

Remodelling a small bathroom requires a thoughtful approach that combines functionality with a touch of style. Here are six strategies you can implement into your next bathroom remodel, and they’re tailored specifically for homeowners looking to optimize their limited space.

Small Bathroom Remodel? Maximize With Vertical Storage

Look into utilizing smart storage solutions to make the most of vertical space. Installing floating shelves or cabinets above the toilet for towels and toiletries is a great option. Wall-mounted hooks or racks can also provide additional storage without cluttering the floor. This will keep the layout of your bathroom efficient, by reducing the need to take up floor space.

Insider's Note: Opt for light-coloured shelves to create an illusion of spaciousness and as a way to enhance the overall aesthetic.

Illuminate Your Small Bathroom With Thoughtful Lighting Design

Be strategic with the lighting fixtures you choose to use. Lighting has the ability to completely transform the way people perceive space in a small bathroom. Leverage any natural light that you can (this will really help achieve a spa-like atmosphere), and blend it with artificial light sources to eliminate shadows. You could look into integrating wall sconces on either side of the mirror, this ensures even illumination throughout the vanity, while a well-placed window or skylight brings in natural light.

Pro Tip: I definitely recommend installing a dimmer switch for versatile lighting. This can allow you to adapt to different moods and occasions and makes for a more bearable middle-of-the-night bathroom run.

Bright white bathroom with lots of natural light coming in from a skylight.

Choose Space-Saving Solutions

Just because your bathroom is small doesn’t mean you need to completely abandon your design preferences. Some things you could look into include: corner showers to optimize the layout and compact toilets with concealed tanks for a streamlined look. If you want to give the illusion that your bathroom is larger, you could opt for glass shower doors. Don't be afraid to get creative, and there's no harm in doing some research to ensure you're still finding high-quality fixtures.

Friendly Reminder: Space-saving fixtures have come a LONG way in terms of design, in fact, some of them look even more sleek than the non-compact versions… just saying. If I haven’t sold you on them yet, I should also remind you that they are a LOT easier to clean, and they are often more eco-friendly options as well.

Mirrors… Your Small Bathroom’s Best Friend

We’ve all heard this one before, but it’s true – mirrors are a game-changer in small spaces. I recommend finding a generously sized mirror to install above the vanity to add depth. Better yet, if you can, position it across from a window to reflect the natural light. Another way to create the illusion of more space is in tile selection. Mirrored tiles reflect a lot of light and are really great at making a bathroom feel larger. Of course, they don't match everyone's aesthetic appeal, but when done tastefully, they can be surprisingly stylish.

Expert Insight: A custom-cut mirror spanning the entire wall creates a seamless and impactful effect. Look into the cost of getting one cut and installed and see if there are ways to flex your budget to make it work. 

Mirrored subway tiles behind a white bathtub
Source: https://www.wallsandfloors.co.uk/foxed-mirror-150x200-tiles

Need Bathroom Design Ideas? Go For Neutral Colour Schemes

Bathrooms, when designed well, can be like your own personal sanctuary. One way to give your space that spa-like feel (even if the bathroom is small) is to create an airy ambiance with a light and neutral colour palette. Whites, soft grays, and pastels (light blue is a pretty common choice) visually enlarge the space. Take it one step further and integrate these tones into wall and floor tiles and accessories like tiles.

Practical Touch: Don’t be scared off by this, but neutral tones are the practical design choice as well. Let’s say a few years down the line you want to make updates to the bathroom, your decision to choose neutral colours will act like a blank canvas for future upgrades.

Multi-Purpose = Extra Spacious

Always always ALWAYS choose furniture that serves a dual purpose in your small bathroom. Choose a vanity upgrade that has built-in storage, or a modern. mirrored medicine cabinets. If your budget allows for it, you could reach out to a carpenter about custom cabinetry and what your options are.

Personal Touch: A vanity with drawers is a great way to neatly organize your essentials while providing easy access (what better place to store that 7-step skincare routine)?

A modern, small bathroom with sleek, white fixtures and wood-looking tiles;

In conclusion, implementing these six strategies will most DEFINITELY make your small bathroom feel a little more spacious, and a lot more stylish. Remember to make decisions thoughtfully, and keep this word top of mind: functionality.