Is your bathroom small and cramped? Read on to learn how to make a small bathroom feel bigger. With some clever strategies and design choices, you can create the illusion of a larger and more spacious bathroom. This article will provide you with nine practical tips to make your small bathroom look bigger and more inviting. By implementing these ideas, you can transform your cramped bathroom into a stylish and functional space that feels more open and airy. From decluttering to choosing the right colours and utilising smart storage solutions, let’s explore how to maximise the potential of your small bathroom and create a visually larger environment.
1. Declutter and Organise
A cluttered bathroom can make even the largest space feel cramped. We love decluttering at DIYonaBudget.com, you can often find old treasures to sell or upcycle too. Start by decluttering your bathroom and getting rid of any unnecessary items. Keep only the essentials and find smart storage solutions for toiletries, towels, and other bathroom accessories. Utilise wall-mounted shelves, baskets, or over-the-door organisers to maximise vertical storage. Clear countertops and open spaces will instantly make your bathroom look bigger.
2. Light and Bright Colours
Opt for light and bright colours to visually expand your small bathroom. Choose a light colour palette for the walls, such as soft neutrals or pastel shades. Lighter colours reflect more light, creating an illusion of a larger space. Consider using white or light-coloured tiles for the floor and shower area. If you want to add a pop of colour, do so with accessories or small accent pieces that won’t overwhelm the space.
3. Strategic Lighting
Good lighting can make a significant difference in how spacious a bathroom appears. Maximise natural light by keeping windows uncovered or using sheer curtains to allow light to filter in. If natural light is limited, incorporate a combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting. Install bright, energy-efficient LED lights to illuminate the entire space. Add mirrors strategically to reflect light and create the illusion of a larger bathroom. Place mirrors opposite windows or above the vanity to maximise their effect.
4. Optimise Storage Solutions
In a small bathroom, efficient storage is key. Look for creative storage solutions that maximise space without taking up too much floor area. Install floating shelves or wall-mounted cabinets above the toilet or sink to utilise vertical space. Use organisers and caddies inside cabinets and drawers to keep toiletries and small items organised. Consider installing a recessed medicine cabinet to save space and provide additional storage. Utilise the area above the door by adding a shelf or hanging baskets for extra storage.
5. Use Mirrors Strategically
Mirrors are not only functional but also great for creating an illusion of space. Place a large mirror on one wall or create a mirrored feature wall to visually expand the bathroom. Opt for a frameless or slim-framed mirror to minimise visual clutter. Consider using mirrored cabinets or mirrored tiles to add depth and reflection. Mirrors can bounce light around the room, making it feel more open and spacious.
What Sort of Mirror Should I Use?
When it comes to bathroom mirrors, there are various types to choose from that can enhance the visual appeal and functionality of a small bathroom. Here are a few options to consider:
- Frameless Mirrors: Frameless mirrors offer a sleek and modern look. They have clean edges and no frame, making them perfect for creating an illusion of space and adding a touch of elegance to the bathroom.
- Medicine Cabinets: Medicine cabinets are a practical choice for small bathrooms as they provide storage space behind the mirror. They often feature shelves or compartments to keep toiletries and medications neatly organised while also serving as a mirror.
- Mirrored Cabinets: Mirrored cabinets combine the functionality of storage with the reflective properties of a mirror. These cabinets typically have a mirrored front and offer ample space for storing bathroom essentials, helping to keep the countertop clutter-free.
- Illuminated Mirrors: Illuminated mirrors come with built-in lighting, usually in the form of LED strips or backlit panels. These mirrors not only provide functional lighting for grooming and applying makeup but also create a soft and inviting ambiance in the bathroom.
- Vintage or Ornate Mirrors: For those seeking a more decorative touch, vintage or ornate mirrors can add character to a small bathroom. These mirrors often feature intricate frames or unique shapes, becoming a focal point and adding a touch of charm to the space.
- Full-Length Mirrors: Full-length mirrors can be a great addition to a small bathroom if space allows. They provide a complete reflection of the body and can make the room feel larger. Consider placing a full-length mirror on the back of the bathroom door or on a wall to maximise the perception of space.
When choosing a bathroom mirror, consider the style and design that best suits your taste and complements the overall aesthetic of the bathroom. Additionally, consider the size of the mirror to ensure it fits proportionally within the available space.
6. Opt for a Shower Instead of a Bathtub
In a small bathroom, a bathtub can take up a significant amount of space. Consider replacing it with a shower to free up valuable floor area. Install a sleek, frameless glass shower enclosure to create a seamless look and visually open up the space. Choose a shower-head with a slim profile or a wall-mounted option to save space. This one really is a personal preference. I personally could happily live without a bath, but my wife would wholeheartedly disagree! Baths made also be needed if you have younger children. If you prefer a do bathtub, consider a compact or corner bathtub to maximise your floor space.
7. Create Illusion with Vertical Lines
Vertical lines can create the perception of height and make a small bathroom appear more spacious. Use vertical design elements strategically throughout the space. Install vertical tiles or create a vertical stripe pattern on the walls to draw the eyes upward. Choose shower curtains or window treatments with vertical patterns or stripes to create the illusion of height. Incorporate tall, slim cabinets or shelving units to accentuate vertical lines.
8. Keep It Minimalist and Streamlined
In a small bathroom, less is more. Opt for a minimalist and streamlined design approach to avoid overwhelming the space. Choose clean lines for fixtures and fittings, such as a wall-mounted toilet or a pedestal sink. Minimise the number of accessories and decorations to create a clutter-free environment. Use a cohesive colour scheme and keep patterns simple to maintain a sense of visual calmness.
9. Opt for a floating vanity or wall mounted sink
Traditional vanities with floor-standing cabinets can visually weigh down a small space, making it feel more cramped.
A floating vanity or wall-mounted sink creates a sense of openness by exposing the floor underneath, giving the illusion of more space. This design choice also makes cleaning the floor easier and provides an opportunity to incorporate storage solutions such as open shelves or baskets underneath the vanity.
Choose a sleek and minimalistic design for the vanity or sink to further enhance the feeling of spaciousness. Light-coloured materials, such as white or light wood, can also help to reflect light and make the bathroom appear brighter and more airy.
Wrap-up
Making a small bathroom look bigger is all about maximising space, utilising light and colour, and creating a sense of openness. Declutter and organise the space, choose light and bright colours, and incorporate strategic lighting. Optimise storage solutions, use mirrors strategically, and consider a shower instead of a bathtub. Create the illusion of space with vertical lines and keep the overall design minimalist and streamlined. By implementing these tips, you can transform your small bathroom into a visually larger and more functional space. After you’ve sorted out your bathroom, why not get set on the rest of your home?
