Small bathrooms don't have to feel cramped or uninspired. In fact, their limited size often presents an opportunity to unleash creativity and make the most of every inch. Designers frequently use clever tricks and techniques to turn compact bathrooms into functional, stylish spaces that defy their small dimensions.

Whether it’s through smart storage solutions, clever lighting, or thoughtful material choices, these tips will help you transform your small bathroom into a space that feels much larger than it is.

Here are insights from interior design experts about their go-to strategies for maximizing the potential of small bathrooms. If you’re ready to make your petite bathroom feel inviting and spacious, read on for tips that are both practical and stylish.

Also read:

50 Small Bathroom Ideas You’ll Want to Try ASAP

19 Small Bathroom Decorating Ideas with Big Impact

1. Choose a Clear Shower Enclosure

One of the most effective ways to create the illusion of more space in a small bathroom is to install a clear glass shower enclosure instead of a traditional shower curtain. While it may be tempting to hide an older shower or tub behind a curtain, this trick can make the space feel even more confined by blocking off a significant portion of the room. A clear glass partition, on the other hand, allows the eye to travel uninterrupted across the room, creating the perception of greater space.

This choice also provides a fantastic opportunity to showcase a beautifully tiled shower surround. Imagine a bold, geometric pattern in vibrant hues or a serene, nature-inspired mosaic. These elements can serve as the main attraction that adds personality and style to the room. Instead of hiding your shower, embrace it as a design feature that enhances the overall aesthetic. Even in a small space, the right tile can make a big statement, turning your shower into an eye-catching centerpiece.

2. Illuminate the Shower Space

Lighting plays a crucial role in how spacious and inviting a small bathroom feels. Designer Amhad Freeman, founder of Amhad Freeman Interiors, recommends incorporating lighting directly into the shower area to enhance both the ambiance and functionality of the space. By placing LED strip lights in shower niches or installing a small spotlight above the shower, you can create a welcoming and warm glow that highlights the space's best features.

Imagine stepping into a well-lit shower where the soft lights draw attention to your neatly arranged bath products or even a small bouquet of fresh flowers. Not only does this add a touch of luxury, but it also eliminates the need for harsh overhead lighting, which can cast unflattering shadows and make the bathroom feel smaller. Freeman’s approach turns the shower into a serene and stylish sanctuary, where every detail is thoughtfully highlighted.

3. Install a Medicine Cabinet for Extra Storage

Storage is often at a premium in small bathrooms, where bulky vanities are often sacrificed in favor of sleek pedestal sinks. However, this doesn't mean you have to forego storage altogether. Candace Plotz, founder of Candace Plotz Design, advocates for the strategic use of medicine cabinets, which provide much-needed storage without taking up additional floor space.

Gone are the days when medicine cabinets were purely utilitarian and often unattractive. Today’s designs offer a wide range of stylish options that can enhance your bathroom’s aesthetic while providing ample storage for everyday bath essentials. Think of a sleek, mirrored cabinet with an arched top, or one with trendy cane-panel doors that add texture and warmth to the space. By placing the cabinet at an ideal height, you ensure that your toiletries are easily accessible while keeping the countertop clutter-free.

For a more personalized touch, consider a custom-built medicine cabinet that integrates seamlessly into the wall. This not only saves space but also contributes to a clean and organized look that makes the bathroom feel airy and more open.

Read related: 43 Small Bathroom Ideas to Make Your Bathroom Feel Bigger

4. Create a Recessed Nook for Extra Storage

For those who are willing to put in a bit of extra effort, a recessed nook or built-in storage can be a game-changer in a small bathroom. Designer Paulina Hospod of Aha Interiors suggests looking at the space between wall studs as an opportunity to add storage without encroaching on valuable floor space.

Recessed niches are perfect for storing shampoo bottles, soaps, and other bath products, keeping them off the edges of the tub or shower floor. But the potential goes far beyond that. Imagine a tall, recessed cabinet that runs from floor to ceiling, offering ample storage for toiletries, towels, and even cleaning supplies. By building storage into the walls, you maintain a sleek, seamless appearance that adds to the illusion of a larger space.

The key is to ensure that these recessed elements are carefully designed and thoughtfully integrated into the overall bathroom layout. Whether it’s a niche in the shower or a full-height cabinet, these built-in features can significantly enhance the functionality and aesthetic appeal of your small bathroom. This extra touch makes your loo appear organized, spacious, and personalized.

5. Thoughtfully Design a Vanity

If your bathroom has enough room for a vanity, it’s worth taking the time to design one that maximizes storage and style. Many standard vanities include a faux drawer at the top, which is often wasted space. Bianca Ecklund, founder of Bianca Ecklund Design, suggests rethinking this traditional design to make the most of every inch.

Instead of the typical setup, consider a vanity with two doors on top and a large drawer below. This arrangement allows for better organization of bathroom essentials, with the drawer providing space for items like towels, hairdryers, or cleaning supplies. The doors can house smaller items like toiletries, keeping everything neatly organized and within reach.

Choosing a vanity that incorporates a mix of open and closed storage can also add visual interest to the space. Open shelves can be used to display decorative items, while closed cabinets keep less attractive necessities out of sight. By carefully selecting finishes and materials, such as a marble countertop or brass hardware, you can ensure that the vanity not only serves a functional purpose but also enhances the overall look of the bathroom.

6. Embrace Wallpaper and Wainscoting

When decorating a small bathroom, the walls offer a perfect opportunity to integrate personality and style without sacrificing space. Designer Keri Lainas of Keri Michelle Interiors is a big fan of using wallpaper and wainscoting to elevate the look of a small bathroom, making it feel more expansive and welcoming.

Wallpaper is an excellent way to create visual interest, especially in a tiny bathroom where bold designs may appear overwhelming in larger spaces. Consider a statement wallpaper with a large-scale floral or geometric pattern that draws the eye and adds depth to the room. Pairing this with wainscoting painted in a complementary color can help balance the design, preventing the space from feeling too busy.

Light-colored wallpaper can make the room feel larger and brighter, while darker, moodier hues can create a cozy, intimate atmosphere. The secret is to choose a design that reflects your style while enhancing the overall style of the bathroom. Whether you opt for a classic damask, a modern abstract, or something in between, wallpaper and wainscoting can transform your small bathroom into a stylish and sophisticated space.

Also read: 6 Smart Ways to Upgrade Your Teeny-Tiny Bathroom Without Breaking the Bank

By incorporating these designer-approved tips, you can make even the smallest bathroom feel larger, more functional, and more beautiful. From choosing a clear shower enclosure to thoughtfully designing a vanity, these strategies help you make the most of your space without compromising on style. Whether you're working with a compact powder room or a full bath, these ideas will inspire you to create a bathroom that feels like a sanctuary, no matter its size.

Need a professional’s touch in transforming your tiny loo? The experts from JarvisInteriors can help you!

For inspirations in efficient home organizing and decluttering, read these tips from JarvisInteriors: TOP 7 GOLDEN RULES FROM EXPERTS IN HOME ORGANIZING.

_________________________

CONTENT Credits

6 Small Bathroom Decorating Tips Designers Actually Use

Photo credits

https://www.thespruce.com/upgrade-tiny-bathroom-on-a-budget-8679578

https://www.bhg.com/bathroom/small/small-bathroom-decorating-ideas/