36 Small Bathroom Ideas to Make a Style Statement No Matter the Size of Your Space (2023)

Bathrooms come in all shapes and sizes, but the reality is that most of us are looking for small bathroom ideas to transform our small spaces into something more powerful.

From tile hacks to storage solutions to find the best onebathroom ideasBlending into your space is no easy task, but we've rounded up our most imaginative ideas and hired some of the best experts to advise you too, so you can soon enjoy a bathroom that will be the envy of all your friends.

James Roberts, director ofsanctuary baths(opens in a new tab)says, “When your bathroom is modest, you don't have to compromise on aesthetics. Though there are some design limitations, small bathrooms can still be spectacular when you make the most of the space you have with smart storage, arrangement, and use of color.

Small bathroom ideas

A small space doesn't have to look cluttered or feel cramped when you incorporate a few clever tricks of the trade. Your compact bathroom can soon exude style and sophistication, even if you only have onebathroom ideasattempt.

A few space-saving tips combined with a touch of beautiful accessories will transform the most modest bathroom into an enviable space in minutes.

Read on to learn how to create the small bathroom of your dreams...

1st side with shower

RegrettablyWalk in shower ideasThey're a dream come true for most of us with small bathrooms, but that doesn't mean your space can't still be dreamy as there are other stylish options out there.

Lee Reed, Designdirektor vonSimple baths(opens in a new tab)says: “The choice of shower you choose can be determined in part by the space and shape of your bathroom. When space is limited, a shower over the bath is a handy way to ensure you have both, which can be important in a family bathroom. If you choose this option, specially designed bathtubs (in the shape of an L or P to give a larger surface area when showering) can work.

“But you don't have to give up your dream of a free-standing bath/shower combination. Traditional models like the boat tub can be a great option when used with a raised set or ceiling mounted shower. To prevent water from splashing everywhere, pair it with an oval shower ring and shower curtain.

2. Don't forget about the subtleties

It's the little details that can help make a small bathroom feel special.

Ed Norris, National Sales Development Manager beiMereway Baths(opens in a new tab)says: “Finer details make a big difference to the appearance of a small bathroom. The handles on your storage cabinets aren't just for function, they're a raised touch so should complement the overall look - sleek curved D-handles for a minimalist scheme, or traditional knobs for shakers. Reflect the light in the room and create a sense of space with illuminated mirrors and reflective surfaces such as shiny cabinets, tiles or floors.”

3. Chip-Trick

The space you have and what the eye perceives are not necessarily the same. Play with the limits of perception by tiling the edge of the bathtub and the wall with the same design, it's a great thingbathroom tile ideaAlso, it's hard to tell where each one starts, which makes your space feel bigger.

Barrie Cutchie, Design Director ofBC designs(opens in a new tab)says: “Even in small bathrooms, many people want a freestanding bathtub to add a lot of wow and an eye-catcher that immediately makes the room feel more luxurious. However, budget and space constraints mean this is not always an option, however, a standard bathroom can be just as interesting when it comes to bathroom design, especially if you decide to tile it.

“The bathroom panel mosaic is exactly what it says it is; is adding tiles to the side of your bathroom, either in the same style or in contrast to the rest of your bathroom. The process involves using a special tile backsplash that won't warp and requires a little more effort than using standard bathroom finishes, but is often worth the extra effort.'

4. Keep a fresh color scheme

If you're not sure how to decorate your small bathroom, keep it simple with soft, natural tones. Choose furniture and accessories with clean lines and keep the space as uncluttered as possible to create a sense of space.

Ruth Foster, interior designer atvictory plum(opens in a new tab)says: “Neutral bathroom decor has always been popular, but even more so in smaller spaces. Going for light shades like brown, cream and white creates a lighter, brighter bathroom that makes it appear larger than it actually is. If you take this into account when choosing the color of your wall and floor tiles, you create a warm and harmonious design with timeless elegance.”

5. Work in a wet room

an elegant onewet roomYou can make the most of a small space and add value to your property. If you are remodeling an attic, consider a wet room instead of a bathroom. It's a great way to make the most of a small space, and when it's as beautifully finished as this designer look, it's stunning.

Barrie says: “When it comes to showers, a separate shower can often be considered a luxury when space is at a premium. However, there are a few clever ways around this, including wet rooms and foldable shower enclosures that take up a lot of space.” Less space than a typical shower. Wet rooms typically do not require bulky shower enclosures or tubs and can blend in with the aesthetics of the rest of the room.

“We see a growing trend towards foldable shower enclosures. These can easily be folded away when the shower is not in use, helping to create a sense of space as well as the ability to store other products during family bathing, such as bath tubs. B. a bath, easy to use.

6. Dare to go dark

While the general advice for small spaces is to decorate with white to create a light and airy feel, there's no denying how fabulous darker, trendier hues can be. There's also an element of cocooning and ambiance that comes from using darker colors in smaller spaces, so it's largely a personal choice.

James Roberts of Sanctuary Bathrooms says, "While it might seem like a bad idea to use dark colors in a small space, there are ways to do it without looking gloomy." If you want to darken the walls, go through Add a touch of bright colors to furniture and accessories. Since plants will be large in 2023, try a dark green with some complementary plants in different shades to add dimension.

When using dark color and tiling options, using reflective surfaces can be invaluable to receive light bouncing around the room to prevent it from feeling too flat and restricted as dark colors absorb light, making the room seem tighter and smaller it really is.

7. Build an artificial wall shelf

It might seem counterintuitive in a small space, but building a half-height art wall in your bathroom allows you to hide all the ugly dirt and plumbing that you need for your bathroom, and also create a shelf to hold your prettier accessories as well can accommodate. Once in place, you'll never know it wasn't always there! Houseplants (fresh or artificial) will look great strung on top, and there's room for artwork, too.

8. Go great with faux panels

Create a vintage vibe in a small space with paneled effect walls. Simple vertical panels are an easy way to add character, or try a ribbed effect for a more artful look. Dark colors are also good for making a small space feel cozier.

9. Make the most of wall space

In this luxurious bathroom, a shower over the bath made the most of the small space, which also meant mounting the radiator on the opposite walltowelsthey are at hand. Brass fittings and marble-look tiles work together to create a high-quality look in the smallest of spaces.

10. Mix and match materials

Make a special highlight out of your sink and adapt it to your walls. Here Avalanche Marble priced at £924 per m2,Cullifords(opens in a new tab)It covers the top half of the wall, which abuts a textured concrete floor. The sink sits on the same block of marble, cleverly combining the two looks. A well-positioned shelf contributes to the clean look and offers additional space for accessories.

11. Go for a living (fake) wall

Bring some green into your bathroom with a wall unit on a grand scale. It can be a bit tricky to do with real plants, but a panel of artificial foliage will give you the same effect and is much easier to maintain. By saving space you create a stunning feature on your wall and bring a touch of the outdoors indoors.

12. Choose floating vanities to maximize floor space.

Wall-mounting your vanity and leaving the floor space underneath will make your space appear larger and less cramped. Choose a vanity with enough space to store towels and toiletries, and choose a sink that sits perfectly on it. gold hardware thatPimlico bathroom wall light, £45, Garden Trading(opens in a new tab)and sophisticated accessories give this bathroom a wellness hotel feeling.

13. Use mirrors to open up space

Hang a large mirror (or two or three) over your sink to channel natural light throughout the room and make the whole room appear larger. You'd be surprised how much a mirror can open up a room, and it's the number one trick interior designers use to make a room appear larger. Go big, be bold and make a statement in your bathroom.

14. Invest in a sleek car

Keep essentials in a neat storage container, such asNissafors black trolley, £25, Ikea(opens in a new tab)which can be wheeled from the bathroom to the sink and shower, so you don't have to double supplies or storage space. Choose a slim design that can be stored away when not in use.

15. Create a sense of space by defining zones

Use the zoning method to make a small space feel more spacious. This smart bathroom is small and simple, but feels a lot bigger thanks to the clearly defined zones. The toilet is less than two feet from the sink, but thanks to the wood paneling on the wall and the tiled backsplash, the two areas feel very separate, which helps create a sense of distance between them.

16. Place faucets on the side of a sink.

Don't let a cramped bathroom mean you'll struggle to achieve the look you want, just think outside the box. Choose a slim, elongated sink that allows for a lot of volume without taking up as much space because of its width. The addition of faucets on the side helps eliminate issues that can arise due to the narrow width as water runs off the longer length.

17. Create the illusion of space with an oval bathtub.

Feel free to incorporate a freestanding bathtub in a small bathroom. An oval bathtub cuts corners to enhance the sense of space. A shallow shelf for hiding drain pipes is also useful for adding extra space for displaying bath salts.Bathroom plant ideasand more.

18. Think like an expert

Architecturally and visually, it's best to keep a small bathroom that feels open by not becoming overly crowded. Edit your amenities frequently, hang your towels on rods or hooks, keep patterns to a minimum, and generally keep it simple.

The space will feel larger when you use a pedestal sink instead of a bulky vanity, a clear glass door instead of a shower curtain, and reflective surfaces like large format glossy ceramic tiles.

19. Work in a wall device

Modular wall furniture remains a favorite for storage due to its streamlined, uncomplicated look. Available in a range of heights, widths and depths, this means you can create semi-custom furniture that best suits your space.

You will find a wide range of colors, from soft hues to bold, bold hues, as well as many different textures.

20. Repurpose wasted wall space for a towel rack.

Elevate your radiator to free up floor space, but go further and place it above your bathroom or toilet to make the most of an otherwise unused section of wall.

"We're always asked how we can make the most of a small bathroom," says Dan Nezhard, director ofUKRadiators.com(opens in a new tab). “Our first recommendation is to invest in towel warmers or wall radiators in general. If you can remove a bulky, low radiator, it will free up a lot of space and instantly make the room appear bigger.

Choose a type oftowel raildepending on the size of your room and whether you want to drill holes in the walls. There are many designs to choose from including freestanding, wall mounted and over the door options.

21. Keep the colors bright for awkward designs

The general rule of thumb for small award designs is to keep the color palette light and bright. "If you want your bathroom to appear larger than it is, lighter wall colors will work in your favor," says Dan Nezhard. "Lighter colors reflect the light and make your bathroom feel more open and airy."

Lighter whites, neutrals, and grays are ideal for opening up tight layouts and awkward small spaces, bouncing light off all walls, and avoiding dark hallways or corners.

22. Decorate Design with Glass

A walk-in shower with frameless panels is barely visible in this sleek bathroom, helping to create the illusion of space. Gray marble wall tiles and brass fixtures add a touch of glamor to the small space without being overwhelming.

23. Add alternative decoration with tiles

Avoid cluttering a small space with too many different decorating themes. But that doesn't mean your bathroom has to be without personality. This combination of hexagonal and metro tiles adds interest without overloading this small space with pattern. The owners have also used hexagons on the porch and in the kitchen as a subtle connection throughout the home.

24. Double the size with a mirrored wall

Ok, so you're not literally doubling the size, but you're creating the illusion of doubling the space. Mirrors can completely change the look of a room as they reflect light and create the illusion of space. It's a persuasive style trick interior designers often use to maximize space. Whether you're applying a mirror film to cover an entire wall or simply hanging a large mirror, the reflection is guaranteed to brighten up your bathroom.

25. Mount the faucets on the wall

Wall mounted mixer taps work well in compact bathroom designs as the plumbing can be concealed without the need for a bulky sink pedestal. You can use the freed up space to put shelves or a laundry basket for fancy clothes.Storage ideas for the bathroomto keep the place clean and tidy.

26. Opt for independent and multifunctional furniture

A limited floor space shouldn't hamper your creative flair. If your bathroom is going to be small, consider using freestanding furniture that you can move at any time.

Opting for freestanding seating and storage means you can change your scheme at any time, and unlike built-in bathroom cabinets, you can take freestanding pieces with you when it's time to move.

27. Use the same tiles on the floor and walls

A nifty trick to making a small bathroom appear larger is to use the same tiles for the walls and floor. “Use coordinating wall panels or large format floor and wall tiles for the seamless look,” suggests Nicky Taha, Visual Stylist, VictoriaPlum.com.

Natural stone in this family bathroom not only adds a spa-inspired touch, but the continuous flow of tiles creates an airy feel, along with space-saving wall fixtures.

When natural stone feels too neutral, you can easily liven it up with bold pops of color with your towels, storage and accessories - an inexpensive way to add personality to your bathroom.

28. Tile the middle of the wall

Not sure how to tile a pitched roof? Then try to tile the wall halfway up. You save tiles and make the room appear larger. Choose a dark, neutral tile and paint the ceiling above it white to maximize the glow of the ceiling lights.

29. Distract from grandeur with an eye-catching wallpaper

Wallpaper will make a statement in any room, and the bathroom is no exception. A ground floor cloakroom is a privileged space to take advantage of a distinctive featureidea for bathroom wallpaper, as bathrooms with shower or bath need special paper to prevent the steam from damaging it.

Go for a unique, eye-catching or interesting print to maximize impact in a small space like this. Place a methacrylate sheet behind the sink as a splashback to prevent water from damaging the wallpaper.

30. Change the position of the shower valve

When space is at a premium, opt for a bath over shower that offers the best of both worlds. Instead of placing the shower on the short side of the tub, try placing it on the longer side for a more luxurious feel. Use a bold mosaic design around the bathroom to stand out from the rest of the room.

31. Stick to a monochrome palette

Stick to a monochromatic scheme and add colour, texture and pattern with external accessories. White opens up a bathroom like no other color and makes it feel as spacious as possible. White tiles and black grout can be a winning combination in a small bathroom.

32. Having built-in shelves

Built-in shelves are a great space saver, both practical and visual, keeping toiletries tidy and off surfaces. Incorporating the shelves into false walls that hide the plumbing is a clever use of a necessary feature. Also consider recessed lighting, either spot or linear.

33. Place a storage tray on top of the plates.

Tongue and groove panels visually frame the bathroom and the handy shelf at the top serves as a mantel for an abundance of jewellery, toiletries and accessories. Eau de Nile color is a soothing option for the bathroom and adds interest to this compact space.

34. Make room under the eaves

Compact accessories are a great help in awkwardly shaped attics. Don't worry about trying to install a bathtub, opt for a luxury glass shower enclosure. is common withLoft conversion ideasand attics for boxes in parts of the room that have a reduced ceiling height for storage. But why not look for ways to avoid low altitudes instead? A toilet or sink is a good idea.

35. Consider a slipper bath

If you can't fit a standard claw-foot tub into your bathroom, consider a slipper-shaped tub. Many come in short versions, allowing you to relax in style. And if you crave traditional faucets in a small space, the latest clawfoot tubs are available in smaller dimensions.

Barrie Cutchie of BC Designs says, "A limited space shouldn't limit your creative style. Many people are under the impression that they might have to give up a bathroom, but that is not the case these days. Dinky models start at just 1200mm up to 1500mm which is still considered compact. Although small, you will generally find that they are deeper to ensure a luxurious bathroom.

“It's important to try to leave about 100mm of space on each side of the bath. It keeps it from looking cramped and also means you can go down the side to clean it too.”

36. Draw the eye with bold mosaics

If you only have a small area to decorate, you really open up a lot of wall covering options that may be out of your price range in a larger space. These chevron-shaped bathroom tiles dance across the wall, creating a custom pattern behind the tub.

How do I maximize space in a small bathroom?

Built-ins will dramatically unlock storage potential and adapt to the awkwardest of spaces. Built-in furniture can also hide sanitary facilities. For a boutique hotel vibe, opt for a wall-hung toilet and sink with matching drawers and tall cabinets. This frees up floor space, which creates order even in the smallest bathroom.

“Half pedestal sinks are the perfect solution for homeowners who want to save space without exposing the plumbing. Half pedestal sinks are freestanding, hiding all plumbing and not reaching to the floor, making the bathroom appear more spacious. Mounted on the wall, semi-pedestal sinks offer a sleek, elegant bathroom element that complements a variety of trends,” says Faye Froy, brand expert atBurlington(opens in a new tab)

What color should I use in a small bathroom?

Ed Norris, National Sales Development Manager beiMereway Bathssays: “There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to choosing bathroom color and size. The most important thing is that the palette you choose reflects the mood you are trying to set and works in harmony with the rest of your home. Electric colors and interesting finishes such as soft matt and gloss provide a wow factor. If you prefer a calmer aesthetic, try a wood grain effect in organic hues like seashells and greens, or opt for Japanese styles with black, brown, and white.

James Roberst, Director of Sanctuary Bathrooms says: “Pastel tones are great for small bathrooms as they help maximize light. These are great for walls but can also be used with standard white walls in the form of furniture and accessories. Consider creating a color palette of about 4 complementary colors to match your overall bathroom decor to avoid clashes and create a harmonious small space. Cool, light tones always work well for small bathrooms as they can really help light enter the room and make the space appear larger.

How should I distribute a small bathroom?

Ed says, “A common problem with smaller bathrooms is the lack of space for toiletries and clean towels. Use storage space around your toilets; Closets keep things tidy, but remember to also introduce an open shelving segment to create visual relief that still provides a place to stash things but helps the space feel more airy. Keeping all storage in one area keeps the design focused and allows you to move more freely.'

James adds: “Consider hanging your furnishings and accessories on the wall. Many features, from the toilet and sink to accessories like roll holders and toilet brushes, are now available in wall-mounted versions. Raising everything off the floor creates extra space and extends the floor outwards, making it appear larger.

“If you're short on space, a shower screen that opens into the bedroom will be a problem. Shower enclosures with sliding doors are perfect for these occasions as they don't require any extra space to function. If you're really short on space, a wet room can be a great option as it eliminates the space that a standard shower takes up, making the space feel bigger.”

“Regarding bathrooms, fitting them into smaller bathrooms without minimizing floor space can be difficult. However, you can find smaller bathrooms that fit very well into smaller spaces. Freestanding bathtubs are not off the table either, but you enjoy less free space around them, which could spoil the look a bit.