When people hear “small bathroom,” they often picture cramped shower stalls, dim lighting, and cluttered vanities. However, a small bathroom can still be comfortable and welcoming. In fact, having less space can be an advantage – renovations are cheaper, cleaning is faster, and decorating is easier. To make the most of your small bathroom, consider creating the illusion of more space through clever design choices like cozy shelving nooks or strategically placed clawfoot tubs. Get inspired by checking out some of the best designs for small bathrooms, like this one from katiemonkhouseinteriors.
Modern Design
One of the best features of modern contemporary design is the seamless, clean lines that create an open and airy feel. This updated bathroom from OneKindesign feels much larger than it actually is, in part because the eye is drawn to the crisp, straight lines of the vanity, which elongate the room and almost seem to push the walls out. Neutral colors like white and unpainted wood are also excellent choices for small bathrooms.
Wainscoting
By adding wainscoting to your bathroom, you can create a classic and visually appealing look. For a more modern approach, invest in a graphic wallpaper, such as this tropical one seen on Design Sponge. The wainscoting should be kept white and neutral to allow the bold print to add personality without overwhelming the small space. A white pedestal sink not only uses less floor space than a large vanity but also blends in with the paneling to create an optical illusion of more space.
Shiplap
Shiplap can be a great alternative to wainscoting in small bathrooms. This cozy bathroom from Keys to Inspiration uses horizontal shiplap to break up the wall space, creating the illusion of a wider wall and more space.
Luxury Tubs
Yes, even with limited bathroom square footage, you can still have a luxury tub. The_Styling_Edge’s bathroom is a perfect example, with a deep soaking tub cleverly placed in a small nook. While the space is pattern-heavy, with a bold tiled floor and large art print, the black and white color scheme maintains balance.
Small Windows
Natural light can make even the smallest bathroom feel spacious and open. This attic bathroom from tim_scrbg may be short on ceiling space, but the slanted window creates an inviting and surprisingly roomy feel. Bonus points for the clever under-the-pedestal storage, which makes use of vital, often forgotten space.
Pink Bathroom
This candy-colored bathroom from decoracaocriativa is perfect for small spaces with its unique, creative, and welcoming design. While neutral colors provide a calming backdrop, this bubblegum pink bathroom is incredibly fun, and the single color palette keeps it from becoming overpowering.
Galley Bathroom
A galley bathroom can feel claustrophobic if not designed correctly, but the one from The Creativity Exchange proves that with the right layout, it can feel downright spacious. The double vanity and glass shower stall keep the space open and visually elongate the room.
Scandinavian-Style
Hygge is the trend for small spaces. This functional and cozy Scandinavian bathroom from Apartment 34 has a unique layout, with a tucked away shower that creates an open and spacious feel.
Storage
One of the main challenges of a small bathroom is finding storage space for all your items. The Mama Notes bathroom lacks storage options, but a ladder shelf offers ample space for towels, bath supplies, and other items.
Black Bathroom
The stunning black accents in this moody bathroom from Claire Brody Designs work in tandem with light tiled floors and neutral wallpaper to add depth to the room. Incorporating black paint takes guts, but the payoff is worth it.
Subway Tile
Subway tiles work well in bathrooms, but for a small bathroom, larger tiles can create the illusion of higher, wider ceilings, like in this design from audreycrispinteriors. Neutral wood accents and subtle touches of greenery perfectly complement the larger tiles.
Single Showers
If you can do without it, skipping a tub is a great way to reclaim precious floor space and open up a small bathroom. This bathroom from Reena Sotropa features a glass shower stall with mixed tiles on the floor and walls, adding a sense of variety and eclecticism despite the small size.
Wallpaper
If you want to add personality to a small bathroom, opt for a bold wallpaper like this girly, floral design from Reena Sotropa. It adds pops of color to the neutral space, creating a vintage-inspired vibe. Plus, in a small space, you won’t need much wallpaper to make a big statement.
Gold Fixtures
This elegant bathroom by Cathie Hong features luxurious gold fixtures that give it a classic look. By keeping the accessories uniform, the small space feels cohesive and thoughtfully decorated. Decorating every nook and cranny is a great way to make a small bathroom feel inviting.
Tubs and Showers
If you dream of a standalone shower and a claw-foot tub, take inspiration from this cozy bathroom by Cathie Hong. By replacing the standard shower curtain with a glass door panel, the bathroom feels more open, and the frosted glass windows let in natural light without sacrificing privacy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, small bathroom designs offer the opportunity to create beautiful and functional spaces that make the most of limited square footage. The 15 beautiful small bathroom designs showcased in this article highlight the creativity and ingenuity of designers who have worked with limited space to create stunning and functional bathrooms.
From clever storage solutions to unique tile patterns and colors, these designs demonstrate that small bathrooms can be both stylish and practical. Whether you’re renovating an existing small bathroom or designing a new space from scratch, these design ideas can provide inspiration and guidance. By maximizing every inch of available space and focusing on functionality, small bathrooms can become beautiful and inviting spaces that meet all of your needs.
