40 Creative Small Bathroom Design Ideas with Clever Solutions 

Table of Contents

With the average bathroom size in Ireland being just 4.4 square meters, small bathrooms can present unique challenges. Makeovers typically cost between €2,000 to €7,000, making smart design choices essential. Solutions include using space-saving fixtures like corner sinks and compact toilets, implementing clever storage solutions such as floating shelves and wall-mounted cabinets, and creating the illusion of space through simple lighting and colour choices. These small bathroom ideas will inspire you to reimagine your lavatory and transform it into a vibrant oasis.

1.

Use vertical stripes for visual height

Vertical stripes trick the eye, making your bathroom seem taller. Try striped wallpaper or tiles to give a low ceiling a boost. It’s an easy way to add height without knocking down walls, as designer Ashley Gilbreath demonstrated in her powder room.

2.

Install built-in storage solutions

Built-ins are a godsend in small bathrooms. Tuck shelves into wall cavities or fit a cabinet above the loo. You’ll gain storage without losing floor space, keeping your bathroom tidy and spacious. This approach was effectively used by the team at Gordon Dunning, who added shelves facing the tub for easy access.

3.

Add a corner vanity for space efficiency

Corner vanities are brilliant space-savers. They fit snugly where standard units can’t, making use of often-wasted corner space. It’s a smart choice for tiny bathrooms or awkward layouts, as showcased by designer Alexandra Kaehler, who hung an antique mirror to enhance the design flow.

4.

Hide plumbing for a cleaner look

Exposed pipes can make a bathroom feel cluttered. Hide them behind panels or in walls for a sleeker look. This technique was beautifully executed by designer Brittany Wurzak Hakimfar of Far Studio, who created a floating vanity that conceals plumbing while maintaining style.

5.

Choose smaller fixtures and details

Opt for a compact loo or a narrower sink. Smaller fixtures free up space without sacrificing function. In her powder room, designer Anne Hepfer selected a compact corner vanity and slender mirror to maximise usability while keeping the room feeling open.

6.

Apply high-gloss paint for light reflection

High-gloss paint bounces light around, making your bathroom feel brighter and bigger. Designer Katie Ridder painted her door in a rich lacquer that not only adds character but also reflects light, enhancing the sense of space.

7.

Implement a light colour scheme

Light colours open up a space, making it feel airy and spacious. Think soft whites or gentle pastels. Designer Ben Dhong used vintage pieces mixed with modern elements to create a serene and harmonious atmosphere in his powder room.

8.

Utilize portable storage options

Wheeled carts or over-the-toilet shelving units add storage without permanence. Susannah Charbin opted for a vintage stool that complements her bathtub while keeping towels off the floor, proving that stylish storage can be functional too.

9.

Install glass shower doors to open up space

Glass doors mimic traditional portholes and allow natural light to flood into the small space, enhancing its openness and connection to the outdoors.

10.

Mirror an entire wall to create depth

A full wall of mirror visually doubles your space and reflects light around the room. Marita Simmons and Krysta Gibbons of Kipling House chose this approach in their ladies’ lounge bathroom, creating an optical illusion that makes the small area feel much larger.

11.

Mount sconces on the mirror for better lighting

Sconces mounted on mirrors provide even lighting, eliminating shadows. This is especially useful for tasks like applying makeup or shaving. Designers Sara Swabb of Storie Collective and Tanya Smith-Shiflett of Unique Kitchens & Baths used this approach to create a stylish and functional lighting solution.

12.

Use furniture pieces for counter space

Incorporating a small cabinet or vintage table as a vanity adds character and counter space. This creative solution can be both stylish and functional. Designer Francesca Grace placed a small cabinet next to her sink to maximise storage without overwhelming the space.

13.

Source vintage statement pieces for character

Small vintage items can make a big impact in a bathroom. A delicate vintage sconce or unique mirror can add charm and personality. Designer Gillian Segal used vintage sconces in her West Palm Beach bungalow to create a romantic atmosphere.

14.

Add a vanity skirt for hidden storage

A fabric skirt around your vanity can hide toiletries while adding a decorative touch. This approach keeps essentials out of sight while enhancing the room’s aesthetic. Designer Justine Cushing used this technique in her Southampton retreat to blend functionality with style.

15.

Select translucent window shades

Translucent window shades offer privacy while allowing light to filter through. They are perfect for small bathrooms where natural light is essential. Designer Becca Casey chose rattan shades to balance light and texture in her bathroom design.

16.

Personalise with monograms

Adding personal touches like monogrammed towels or shower curtains can elevate your bathroom’s style. It creates a polished look without taking up much space. Designer Alexander Reid personalised his rental bathroom with a monogrammed shower curtain that adds elegance.

17.

Work around unique architectural features

Embrace unique architectural features like sloped ceilings in your bathroom design. Use them creatively to enhance the space rather than hinder it. Designer Nathalie Chong set a tub in her dormer windows, showcasing how to make an unusual layout work beautifully.

18.

Keep millwork minimal for a sleek look

Opting for simple finishes and minimal millwork helps maintain an open feel in small bathrooms. This approach allows nature outside to become part of the decor. The design firm Studio Shamshiri implemented this strategy, using vertical space effectively while adding hidden storage.

19.

Install a floating vanity

Floating vanities create an illusion of more floor space, making bathrooms feel larger and more modern. They also simplify cleaning underneath. This design choice is popular among many contemporary designers for its sleek appearance.

20.

Opt for a wall-hung toilet

Wall-hung toilets save valuable floor space and offer a clean, modern look. They are easier to clean around and can make a bathroom feel more open. This practical solution is increasingly favoured in small bathroom designs.

21.

Brighten up with a skylight

Natural light can transform a small bathroom. Studio DIAA installed a skylight in a compact bathroom, flooding the space with daylight and creating an illusion of height and openness.

22.

Simplify your material palette

Nina Barbiras used a limited range of materials in a small bathroom, creating a cohesive and spacious feel. This approach reduces visual noise and makes the room appear larger.

23.

Expand space with a mirror gallery

Cecilia Casagrande created a mirror gallery wall to visually expand a small bathroom. This technique bounces light around the room and creates the illusion of more space.

24.

Make a statement with a freestanding tub

Delia Kenza chose a compact freestanding tub as a focal point in a small bathroom. This bold choice adds character while maintaining an open, spacious feel.

25.

Incorporate a hidden door

Michelle L. Morby used a jib door to maximise space in a small bathroom. This clever trick hides storage or additional rooms while maintaining a seamless look.

26.

Unify with a consistent colour scheme

Elizabeth Cooper stuck to a tight colour palette in a compact bathroom. This cohesive approach creates a sense of flow and makes the space feel larger.

27.

Maximise counter space with an extended vanity

Courtney Petit extended the vanity to create more usable surface area in a small bathroom. This practical solution adds functionality without sacrificing style.

28.

Create illusion of space with a tiny floating sink

Hecker Guthrie installed a tiny floating sink to make a small bathroom feel more open. This minimalist approach keeps the floor clear, enhancing the sense of space.

29.

Incorporate accent pieces for visual interest

Anastasia Casey Design show how small accent pieces can make a big impact in a tiny bathroom. A well-chosen vase, artwork, or decorative tray can add personality without cluttering the space.

30.

Maximise storage with custom recessed cabinets

Spectrum Design Group utilise custom recessed medicine cabinets to create storage without sacrificing space. This clever solution keeps essentials hidden while maintaining a sleek look.

31.

Create depth with dark flooring

Block Renovation demonstrates how dark flooring can add depth to a small bathroom. This technique creates contrast and can make the space feel larger and more sophisticated.

32.

Open up space with frameless shower doors

Another tip from Block Renovation is using frameless shower doors with sleek metal work. This design choice creates an open feel and allows light to flow through the space.

33.

Illuminate with vertical lighting

Another clever idea from Spectrum Design Group is using vertical light fixtures. These draw the eye upward, creating the illusion of height in a compact space.

34.

Create contrast with a dark shower

Layered House uses a dark-tiled shower to create a striking contrast in a light bathroom. This bold choice adds depth and interest to the space.

35.

Bring life to your bathroom with plants

Trevor Tondro incorporates plants to add a touch of nature and freshness to small bathrooms. Choose low-maintenance varieties that thrive in humid environments.

36.

Create warmth with earthy tones and textures

Kelly Brown uses earthy tones and natural textures to create a warm, inviting atmosphere in compact bathrooms. Install terracotta tiles with wooden accents.

37.

Liven up the space with a pop of colour

Cortney from Bishop Design, shows how a strategic pop of colour can energise a small bathroom. A bright vanity or colourful tiles can add personality without overwhelming the space.

38.

Make the shower a star

Jeremy Frechette demonstrates how to turn your shower into a focal point in a small bathroom. Consider using striking tiles, a unique shower head, or a frameless glass enclosure to create visual interest and make the space feel larger.

39.

Maximise space with a hook rack

Janelle Jones showcases the versatility of hook racks in compact bathrooms. These simple additions provide ample storage for towels, robes, and accessories without taking up valuable floor space.

40.

Add warmth with a well-chosen rug

Kimber Collective illustrates how a carefully selected rug can ground a small bathroom. Choose a rug that complements your colour scheme and adds texture, making the space feel more inviting and cohesive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I use big or small tiles in a smaller bathroom?

It’s generally advised to use larger tiles in small bathrooms as they reduce grout lines, making cleaning easier and providing a more polished look. However, a mix of tile sizes can also work well for added interest.

How can I maximise storage in a small bathroom?

Consider using wall-mounted shelves, built-in cabinets, or multifunctional furniture like vanities with drawers. Additionally, vertical storage solutions can help utilise wall space effectively.

How much should I expect to pay for a small bathroom renovation?

Costs can vary widely depending on style and finish but typically expect to spend around €2,000 to €7,000. A general rule is to split costs evenly between products and installation.

What are some clever design tricks for small bathrooms?

Use light colours to create an illusion of space, install mirrors to reflect light, opt for clear glass shower screens, and choose wall-hung fixtures to free up floor space. Clever tile layouts can also enhance the perception of size.

How can I improve lighting in a small bathroom without windows?

Use a combination of lighting types: ambient lighting for overall illumination, task lighting around the mirror for grooming, and accent lighting to highlight features. Consider LED strips, recessed lights, and backlit mirrors for a bright, spacious feel.

What are some budget small bathroom ideas?

Consider installing a shower over the bath, which allows you to enjoy both functionalities without requiring extra space. Using affordable tiles and adopting a mix-and-match approach can create visual interest without overspending, and tiling the bath panel can enhance the overall look at minimal cost.

Author

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Max
Max is the co-founder and main author at RenovationDublin.ie. With over a decade of experience in the home improvement industry, he has helped scale some of Ireland's leading home remodel & construction companies, enhancing their online brand visibility.

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