How to Remodel a Small Bathroom: 7 Tips to Maximizing Space and Style
Remodeling a small bathroom can be a rewarding challenge. With limited space, every design choice counts, and the right decisions can transform a cramped, outdated bathroom into a modern, efficient, and visually appealing space. Here’s how to remodel a small bathroom, incorporating space-saving ideas like a walk-in shower, bypass or barn doors, and niches for storage.
1. Assessing Your Space and Needs
Before diving into the remodel, it’s crucial to assess your space and understand your needs. Small bathrooms often suffer from poor layout and inadequate storage, which can make them feel even smaller. Start by measuring the space and considering the existing layout. Are there elements that can’t be moved, like plumbing? What are your must-haves? Prioritize functionality, but don’t forget about aesthetics.
Tip: American Home Remodeling can help you make the most of the space, but there are also plenty of online tools and apps to help you visualize your new bathroom.
2. Choose a Walk-In Shower Over a Tub
For small bathrooms, a walk-in shower is a game-changer. Tubs take up a lot of space, and if you don’t take baths regularly, it might be better to replace it with a sleek walk-in shower. Not only does this save space, but it also creates a more open and modern look.
Walk-in showers are available in various designs, from frameless glass enclosures to more private, partially enclosed options. The key is to choose a design that makes the room feel bigger. Frameless glass is particularly effective at creating the illusion of space because it allows the eye to travel further without interruption.
Tip: Consider using a premium composite or SENTREL in light colors or a white pattern in the shower, and extend it around the entire bathroom for a seamless, continuous look!
3. Install Bypass or Barn Doors to Save Space
Traditional swing doors can eat up a lot of space in a small bathroom. A great alternative is to install bypass or barn doors. Bypass and Barn doors both slide along a track and are perfect for shower enclosures.
Bypass doors are particularly useful for shower enclosures because they don’t require the clearance space that hinged doors do. This allows you to place other bathroom elements closer to the shower without worrying about door swing.
Barn doors, on the other hand, add a touch of rustic charm and are perfect if you want to make a statement. They’re functional, stylish, and ideal for small bathrooms where every square inch matters.
Tip: Barn doors tend to take up less visual space than bypass doors which may help make the bathroom feel bigger!
4. Incorporate Niches in the Shower for Storage
Storage is often a major issue in small bathrooms. Cluttered countertops and shower floors can make the space feel chaotic and even smaller. To combat this, incorporate niches in your shower design.
Shower niches are recessed shelves built into the wall, providing a perfect spot for storing shampoo, soap, and other essentials without taking up floor space. They are customizable and can be as simple or elaborate as you like. SENTREL offers a 17″ x 17″ niche and a 17″ x 26″ niche in all SENTREL colors that will look beautiful with your premium composite shower and are the perfect size for all of your needs. If you choose to use tile, a niche can run the entire length of a wall, or it can be a small square or rectangular shelf. You can also add accent tiles to make the niche a design feature.
Tip: By placing niches at various heights, you can accommodate users of different heights and keep your shower floor clear, making the entire bathroom feel more spacious.
5. Maximize Vertical Space
In a small bathroom, vertical space is your friend. Don’t let your walls go to waste—use them for storage, decoration, or both. Install tall cabinets or shelving units that reach up to the ceiling. This not only provides additional storage but also draws the eye upward, making the room feel taller.
Wall-mounted vanities are another excellent choice for small bathrooms. By raising the vanity off the floor, you create a sense of space and make cleaning easier. You can also add floating shelves above the toilet or next to the vanity for additional storage without cluttering the floor.
Tip: Opt for open shelving or glass-fronted cabinets to keep the space from feeling too closed off. Display only your most attractive and frequently used items, and store the rest in concealed spaces.
6. Light It Right
Lighting plays a crucial role in how a small bathroom feels. Natural light is best, so if you have a window, make the most of it. If not, make sure your artificial lighting is bright and well-distributed. Recessed ceiling lights, wall sconces, and vanity lights can all help to brighten the space.
A large mirror can also reflect light and make the bathroom feel larger. Consider a mirror that extends across the entire wall above the vanity or a mirror with built-in LED lights for a modern touch.
Tip: If architecture allows, consider a frosted glass window in your shower to bring in natural light without compromising privacy.
7. Choose Light Colors and Simple Patterns
When it comes to color schemes, light and neutral colors are your best bet for making a small bathroom feel larger. White, soft grays, and pastels can make the space feel airy and open. Simple patterns, light acrylics, or large-format tiles can also help to create a more spacious feel.
Avoid busy patterns and dark colors that can make the room feel closed in. If you want to add a pop of color or personality, do it with accessories like towels, rugs, or artwork that can be easily changed.
Tip: Consider using dark towels and fixtures to accent a light room!
Conclusion
Remodeling a small bathroom doesn’t mean you have to compromise on style or functionality. By making smart design choices—like opting for a walk-in shower, installing bypass or barn doors, incorporating niches for storage, and maximizing vertical space—you can create a bathroom that feels larger, looks modern, and meets all your needs. With the right approach, your small bathroom can become one of the most beautiful and functional rooms in your home.
Got an idea for your perfect remodel in mind? Schedule your FREE in-home design consultation with one of our experts. During your consultation, your Designer will take exact measurements and guide you through a selection of materials and products. Once you’ve decided which design elements will work for your bathroom, you’ll receive a project quote. This quote is redeemable for up to a year, that way you can proceed when you’re ready. No high pressure sales tactics here! Interested in learning more? Feel free to call our office at (888) 940-9995.
