Author: Brian August 7, 2024

   Guest Post

Got a bathroom that’s tighter than a tin of sardines? You’re not alone.

Countless homeowners deal with the challenge of making the most of their pint-sized bathrooms.

Fortunately, a small one doesn’t necessarily mean you have to cramp your style.

In fact, the bathroom (regardless of its size) was the most popular renovated space in the house in 2023, headed by 27% of homeowners. (1)

With some clever tricks and a dash of creativity, you can transform that snug space into a stunning, functional oasis.

So, how do you pull off a small bathroom reno without losing your marbles?

This article’s got your back.

Keep reading to find some practical strategies for squeezing every last drop of potential from your compact bathroom without overwhelming your petite space.

Plan and prepare

The key to successful small bathroom renovations lies in meticulous planning.

Start by assessing your current space and identifying its shortcomings.

What’s working? . . . What isn’t?

Make a list of must-haves and nice-to-haves.

This will help you prioritise your small bathroom renovation goals.

Researching clever small bathroom ideas can also introduce you to tried and tested features that may also work for your little project.

Next, set a realistic budget.

Research the small bathroom renovation cost of materials, fixtures, and labour in your area.

Don’t forget to factor in a contingency fund for unexpected or emergency renovation costs.

It’s also wise to consult with a professional general contractor to ensure your plans are feasible and comply with local building codes.

Think vertical, not just horizontal

In a small space, your walls are untapped gold mines of storage potential.

With floor space at a premium, it’s time to look up and embrace the vertical.

Sleek, tall cabinets that stretch toward the ceiling can be extremely useful as they can offer a surprising amount of storage without hogging precious floor real estate.

So, pack those towels, toiletries, and cleaning supplies away in style to keep everything organised and blissfully clutter-free.

Don’t shy away from recessed shelves either.

Built directly into the wall, they provide a seamless look while carving out extra nooks for your essentials.

Opt for sliding doors and pocket doors

Traditional swinging doors gobble up valuable floor space when opened.

To free up some extra room, consider replacing your bathroom door with a sliding door.

This simple switch allows the door to glide smoothly along the wall, eliminating the wasted space needed for a swinging door to open.

If you’re feeling bold, consider going all-in with a pocket door.

This clever contraption disappears completely into the wall when opened, creating a seamless, space-efficient design that’ll make your compact bathroom feel downright roomy.

Make the most of your vanity mirrors

Your vanity mirrors play a crucial role in both storage and style.

For instance, you can use a wall-mounted vanity to create the illusion of more floor space and make cleaning underneath easier.

It also helps spread the natural light across the room. . . . But can do more.

You can also look for vanities with built-in drawers and compartments so you can utilise your bathroom’s every tiny storage potential.

Meanwhile, if you’re working with a seriously snug space, don’t shy away from shallow-depth vanities.

They may be slim but remember that every centimetre truly does count.

Lighten up your colour scheme

Your colour palette can make or break the illusion of space.

So, for your petite bathroom, light and airy hues are your best friends as they can create a sense of openness even in the snuggest of spaces.

White, light grey, or soft pastels on walls and floor tiles act like visual expanders, reflecting light and brightening every corner.

In fact, research shows that white remains to be the number one choice of colour for 32% of homeowners for their bathroom renovation. (2)

But don’t worry, this doesn’t mean you’re doomed to a bland, colourless loo.

Strategic pops of colour can inject bags of personality without overwhelming your compact oasis.

Some good examples are vibrant towels, a funky bathmat, or eye-catching artwork.

Choose fixtures with finesse

Downsizing your fixtures doesn’t necessarily mean sacrificing luxury.

Compact toilets and pedestal sinks can free up precious floor space without feeling cramped.

Walk-in showers are also a popular choice for a reason.

They create a spa-like ambiance and eliminate the bulk of a traditional tub.

In fact, about 26% of homeowners are removing their bathtubs during complete bathroom renovation to switch them with walk-in showers. (3)

Apparently, many homeowners are using bathtubs less and yearning for a fresh look and style when renovating.

They feel that these walk-in showers are much more convenient, space-saving, and offer added safety.

Meanwhile, if a bathtub is still an essential for some of you, consider a space-saving corner bathtub design that maximises every inch.

Light up your bathroom

Proper lighting is key in any bathroom, but especially in a small bathroom design.

Layering your light sources creates a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Start with recessed lighting in the ceiling for overall brightness.

Then, add wall sconces on either side of the mirror for task lighting and a touch of elegance.

Dimmer switches can also be your friend here, allowing you to adjust the mood and brightness depending on your needs.

Wrap up

A small bathroom remodel doesn’t have to mean compromising on style or functionality.

With a bit of planning, clever storage solutions, and strategic design choices, you can create a bathroom that’s both functional and stylish.

Remember, small spaces can be just as beautiful and inviting as their larger counterparts.

References: 

1. “Top 33 Home Remodeling Statistics and Trends of 2023”, Source: https://todayshomeowner.com/home-finances/guides/top-home-remodeling-statistics/
2. “The 2022 Houzz Bathroom Trends Study”, Source: https://www.houzz.com/pro-learn/blog/the-2022-houzz-bathroom-trends-study
3. “Why are people replacing bathtubs with walk-in showers – and is it worth the investment?”, Source: https://www.knoxnews.com/story/news/local/2024/03/21/is-replacing-your-bathtub-with-a-walk-in-shower-worth-the-investment/72688119007/