Very few rooms in your home probably get as much use as the bathroom. Whether it’s rushing to complete your morning routine or trying to create a spa-like experience after a long day, a bathroom is a necessity. Unfortunately, having a bathroom with too little room can painfully drive this point home.
But hope is not lost. With a few wise design choices, small bathrooms can still make a big impact, both functionally and aesthetically.
Employ Strategic Planning for Small Bathrooms
If you’re remodeling your bathroom without changing the square footage, it’s essential to consider the layout strategically. Assess your current floor plan regarding functionality, listing what works and what doesn’t. You can create priorities for your remodel from your list of wants and needs.
While many people desire a soaking tub or double sinks, these bulky items aren’t practical for compact bathrooms. Setting realistic goals regarding available space and budget constraints can help your remodel go smoothly and result in a bathroom that more than suits your needs without breaking the bank.
Optimize Your Layout and Design
Just because you have a petite powder room doesn’t mean you need to forgo luxury features. Selecting space-efficient fixtures can sometimes free up room for wants. Compact toilets and sinks might allow you to squeeze in a bathtub or a space-saving shower, which may create just enough room for a vanity. Opting for wall-mounted fixtures, such as a wall-mounted sink, can further free up real estate in a compact bathroom.
Design elements can also be optimized. Space-saving shelving and storage units are a great way to remove clutter from surfaces, helping your bathroom feel more open and airy. Mirrors can also be creatively used to enhance the sense of space, giving the illusion of a larger room.
Enhance Lighting Without Infringing on Space
Lighting is yet another way to enhance your small bathroom’s aesthetic appeal. Skip bulky features and choose those that maximize space, such as lighted mirrors and vertical sconces. Layering lighting in compact bathrooms is possible, as well as choosing pieces for accent, task, and ambient lighting, as long as you pay close attention to the size of each fixture. For example, a slim pendant light can become a focal point in a small bathroom if paired with less-intrusive fixtures like under cabinet strip lighting. And, of course, if you have natural lighting, use it! Natural light instantly helps open up a space.
Choose Materials and Finishes Wisely
Moisture-resistant materials like ceramic tiles or acrylic panels can help prevent damage while maintaining your sense of style. Space-enhancing color schemes, such as light neutrals, can create an airy feel, while reflective finishes amplify light. Instead of the eye-catching artwork, stools, or seating commonly found in larger bathrooms, make a statement with bold accents or fixtures as focal points. Impactful yet minimalist pieces can help complement the overall design without overwhelming the space.
A Small Space Full of Opportunity
Careful planning right from the start of your small bathroom remodel can help you maximize your space, creating a functional yet appealing room. Wise choices along the way concerning the layout, fixtures, and design choices can further help your space feel like your own personal (petite) oasis.
