Decorating a Small Bathroom? Try These 15 Clever Ideas to Make It Look Bigger

When decorating a small bathroom, creating the illusion of space is key. With limited square footage, it’s important to make strategic design choices that maximise the available area and create an open and airy feel.

This informative piece delves into the topic of enhancing the visual spaciousness of small bathrooms. It offers 15 creative techniques that could prove to be effective in making such limited spaces appear more expansive. With these practical tips, you can transform your small bathroom into a visually appealing and functional oasis.

Use Light Colours to Create an Illusion of Space

Light colours can be strategically used in a small bathroom to give the illusion of a larger space. The bathroom can appear brighter and more expansive by opting for light shades such as whites, creams, or pastels.

Light colours reflect natural light, bouncing it around the room and creating an airy and open atmosphere. This effect enhances the perception of space, making the bathroom feel less cramped. Additionally, light colours have a calming and soothing effect, contributing to a sense of relaxation and tranquillity in the bathroom.

To further enhance the illusion of space, it is advisable to use light-coloured tiles, paint, and fixtures throughout the bathroom. You can transform a small bathroom into a visually larger and more inviting space by incorporating light colours into the overall design scheme.

Install Large Mirrors to Reflect Light and Create Depth

To enhance the perception of spaciousness in a compact bathroom, strategically incorporating sizable mirrors can optimise the reflection of natural and artificial illumination, thereby generating an illusion of increased depth within the limited confines.

By installing large mirrors on one or more walls, the light that enters the bathroom will bounce off the reflective surfaces and create a sense of openness. The mirrors will reflect light and visually expand the room, making it appear larger than its actual size.

It is important to position the mirrors in such a way that they reflect the most light and create the desired effect. Also, choosing mirrors with sleek frames or frameless designs can enhance the illusion of space.

Installing large mirrors in a small bathroom is a practical and effective way to make it look bigger and more inviting.

Opt for a Floating Vanity to Open Up Floor Space

Opting for a floating vanity in a compact bathroom can effectively maximise floor space and contribute to an overall sense of openness and spaciousness. Unlike traditional vanities that rest on the floor, floating vanities are mounted on the wall, exposing the area beneath them. This creates the illusion of more floor space, making the bathroom appear larger than it actually is.

Additionally, the open space beneath the vanity can be utilised for storage or as a place to visually expand the room by adding decorative elements. Floating vanities are available in various styles and sizes, allowing homeowners to choose one that suits their individual tastes and needs.

Opting for a floating vanity can create a visually appealing and functional bathroom while simultaneously creating the illusion of a bigger space.

Choose a Glass Shower Door to Enhance the Visual Flow

A glass shower door creates a seamless and uninterrupted visual flow in the bathroom, enhancing the overall sense of elegance and sophistication.

The transparency of the glass allows light to pass through, making the space appear larger and brighter. Unlike opaque shower curtains or walls, a glass door does not visually divide the bathroom, creating a continuous line of sight that gives the impression of a more expansive area.

Additionally, glass shower doors can be customised to fit any size or layout, making them a versatile option for small bathrooms.

They also require minimal maintenance and are easy to clean, making them a practical choice for those who desire both functionality and aesthetics.

Choosing a glass shower door is a smart design decision that can greatly enhance a small bathroom’s visual appeal and perceived size.

Utilise Vertical Storage Solutions to Maximise Space

Vertical storage solutions can be effectively utilised in a bathroom to maximise the available space and create a more organised and clutter-free environment. Here are four practical ideas to make the most of vertical storage in a small bathroom:

1. Wall-mounted cabinets: Install cabinets on the walls to free up valuable floor space and provide additional storage for toiletries, towels, and other bathroom essentials. Opt for cabinets with adjustable shelves to accommodate items of different sizes.
2. Over-the-door organisers: Utilise the back of the bathroom door by hanging an over-the-door organiser with pockets or hooks. This convenient storage solution can hold items like hair dryers, brushes, and cleaning supplies, keeping them easily accessible yet out of sight.
3. Floating shelves: Install floating shelves above the toilet or next to the sink to store items such as extra toilet paper, towels, or decorative accents. These shelves add vertical visual interest and provide storage without taking up valuable floor space.
4. Shower caddies: Use vertical space in the shower by installing a shower caddy. Choose one with multiple shelves or compartments to hold various shower essentials like shampoo, conditioner, and body wash.

A small bathroom can become more functional and visually spacious by utilising these vertical storage solutions.

Incorporate Hidden Storage Options for a Clean and Clutter-Free Look

One can incorporate hidden storage options that seamlessly blend with the overall design to create a clean and clutter-free look in a bathroom. This approach not only maximises the available space but also enhances the room’s aesthetic appeal.

One effective strategy is to utilise recessed shelves or cabinets. These can be built into the walls, creating a sleek and seamless appearance.

Another option is to incorporate storage solutions behind mirrors or within vanity units. This allows for easy access to toiletries and other bathroom essentials while keeping them out of sight.

Additionally, utilising vertical space by installing floating shelves or a ladder shelf can provide additional storage without taking up valuable floor space.

By incorporating these hidden storage options, one can achieve a clean, organised bathroom that appears larger and more spacious.

Install Wall-Mounted Shelves to Keep Countertops Clear

Wall-mounted shelves can be installed in a bathroom to effectively maintain clear countertops, providing a practical storage solution that promotes a clutter-free and organised space. These shelves are a clever way to maximise vertical wall space, making use of otherwise unused areas. Using wall-mounted shelves, you can keep frequently used items easily accessible without cluttering up the countertops.

This creates a more spacious appearance and allows for a more efficient and functional bathroom. When selecting wall-mounted shelves, it is important to choose ones that are sturdy and durable, capable of supporting the weight of bathroom essentials. Additionally, consider the design and material of the shelves to ensure they complement the bathroom’s overall aesthetic.

By incorporating wall-mounted shelves, you can create a visually appealing and well-organised bathroom while keeping the countertops clear and tidy.

Use Light-Colored Tiles to Create a Seamless and Expansive Look

By using light-coloured tiles, an expansive and seamless look can be effortlessly achieved in a bathroom. Light colours have the ability to reflect more natural light, making the space appear brighter and more open.

Here are three ways to utilise light-coloured tiles to create a spacious atmosphere in a small bathroom:

1. Choose large-format tiles: Opt for larger tiles to minimise the number of grout lines, creating a sense of continuity and flow. This will give the illusion of a larger space.
2. Use neutral shades: Stick to neutral colours such as whites, creams, and light greys to create a clean and airy feel. These colours help to visually expand the space and make it feel less cramped.
3. Extend the tiles onto the walls: Extend the light-coloured tiles from the floor to the walls to create a seamless look. This will draw the eye upwards, making the ceiling appear higher, and the bathroom feel more spacious.

Following these tips, you can transform your small bathroom into a visually larger, inviting space.

Incorporate Natural Light with Skylights or Windows

Another way to create an illusion of space in a small bathroom is by incorporating natural light with skylights or windows.

Natural light transforms any room, making it feel brighter, more spacious, and more inviting.

Skylights are an excellent choice for bathrooms with limited wall space, as they can be installed directly into the ceiling, allowing for maximum light penetration.

The addition of windows is also a practical solution, as they not only bring in natural light but also provide ventilation and a connection to the outdoors.

When choosing windows, opt for large and strategically placed ones to maximise the light entering the room. By harnessing the power of natural light, you can effortlessly enhance your small bathroom’s perceived size and atmosphere.

Choose a Compact Toilet and Sink to Save Space

To optimise the limited space in a bathroom, selecting a compact toilet and sink is a practical approach that maximises functionality while minimising the physical footprint. When dealing with a small bathroom, every square inch counts, and choosing a compact toilet and sink can make a significant difference.

Compact toilets are designed with reduced dimensions, allowing them to fit snugly against the wall or in tight corners. They often have a round bowl shape, which takes up less space than elongated ones.

Similarly, compact sinks are designed to be narrower and shallower, providing the necessary functionality while occupying less space.

By opting for these space-saving fixtures, you can create a more open and spacious feel in your small bathroom without compromising on usability and convenience.

Install a Pocket Door to Free Up Floor Space

Installing a pocket door in a bathroom can effectively maximise floor space by eliminating the need for a traditional swinging door. Pocket doors are designed to slide into a wall cavity, creating a seamless transition between rooms. This innovative solution allows you to utilise the floor space that would have been occupied by a swinging door, making it an ideal choice for small bathrooms where every inch counts.

By installing a pocket door, you free up valuable floor space and create a more streamlined and open feel in the bathroom. This can help create the illusion of a larger space, making it a popular choice for those looking to optimise their small bathroom design.

When choosing a pocket door, consider the material and design that best suits your bathroom aesthetic. Opt for a door with a smooth sliding mechanism to ensure easy operation and durability. Additionally, ensure that the door is properly installed, as a well-fitted pocket door will slide smoothly and seamlessly, enhancing the bathroom’s overall functionality and visual appeal.

Installing a pocket door in a small bathroom is a practical and effective way to maximise floor space. You can create a more open and spacious feel in the bathroom by eliminating the need for a swinging door. Consider the pocket door’s material, design, and installation to ensure a seamless and functional addition to your bathroom decor.

Use Striped Patterns to Create the Illusion of Length

Incorporating striped patterns is one effective technique to create the illusion of length in a bathroom.

Vertical or horizontal Stripes can visually elongate the space and make it appear larger than it actually is.

When using striped patterns, it is important to consider the size and scale of the bathroom. Subtle and thin stripes are recommended for smaller bathrooms, as they create a more delicate and airy feel. On the other hand, larger bathrooms can handle bolder and wider stripes, which add a sense of drama and depth.

Additionally, choosing lighter colours for the stripes can further enhance the illusion of space by reflecting more light.

You can create a visually appealing and spacious atmosphere by strategically incorporating striped patterns into the bathroom decor, even in a small area.

Choose Multi-Functional Furniture and Accessories

Utilising furniture and accessories that serve multiple purposes can maximise the functionality and efficiency of bathroom space. When decorating a small bathroom, choosing items that fit the limited space and serve multiple functions is essential. Here are five multi-functional furniture and accessory ideas to consider:

• Wall-mounted shelves with built-in towel racks can provide storage space for toiletries while also keeping towels within reach.
• A vanity with drawers and shelves can serve as both a storage solution for bathroom essentials and a countertop for getting ready.
• Mirrors with built-in medicine cabinets offer storage for medications and toiletries while also serving as a reflective surface.
• A shower caddy with compartments can organise shower essentials and minimise clutter.
• Foldable or extendable shower seats provide a seating option while showering and can be easily folded away when not in use.

Incorporating these multi-functional items into a small bathroom allows you to optimise space utilisation while maintaining practicality and convenience.

Install Adequate Lighting to Brighten the Space

Multi-functional furniture and accessories are essential for maximising space in a small bathroom. However, adequate lighting is another crucial element that can significantly enhance the overall appearance and ambience of the space. Proper illumination can make a small bathroom appear more spacious and create a bright and inviting atmosphere.

When it comes to lighting a small bathroom, it is important to prioritise both natural and artificial light sources. Natural light can be optimised by using sheer curtains or blinds that allow sunlight to filter in. Additionally, installing a skylight or a larger window can further brighten the space.

In terms of artificial lighting, a combination of overhead, task, and accent lights can be used strategically to eliminate shadows and create a well-lit environment. A small bathroom can be transformed into a visually appealing and comfortable space by incorporating adequate lighting.

Keep the Space Clean and Organised for an Open and Airy Feel

To create an open and airy feel in a small bathroom, it is essential to maintain cleanliness and organisation within the space. This is because a cluttered and disorganised bathroom can make it feel even smaller and more cramped.

Start by decluttering and getting rid of any unnecessary items. Utilise storage solutions such as shelves, baskets, or wall-mounted cabinets to keep toiletries and other essentials out of sight. Clear countertops and clean lines will help create the illusion of more space.

Keeping the bathroom clean and free from dirt and grime will also contribute to a fresh and open atmosphere. Regularly wipe down surfaces, clean the shower or bathtub, and ensure that the toilet and sink are spotless.

By keeping the space clean and organised, you can maximise the feeling of openness in your small bathroom.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when decorating a small bathroom, several clever ideas can make it appear larger and more spacious.

Using light colours, installing large mirrors, opting for a floating vanity, and choosing a glass shower door can all create an illusion of space.

Utilising vertical storage solutions, using striped patterns, and selecting multi-functional furniture and accessories can maximise available space.

Adequate lighting and cleanliness, and organisation are essential for an open and airy feel.