20 Tips for Making a Small Bathroom Look Bigger

Is your small bathroom feeling cramped and confined? Don’t worry; there are clever ways to make it appear larger and more inviting. In this article, we’ll explore some tips and tricks of the trade to create the illusion of space in your compact bathroom.

1. Lighten Up the Colour Scheme

The colour palette you choose plays a significant role in making your bathroom feel more spacious. Opt for light and neutral colours like soft pastels, whites, and light greys. These shades reflect light and open up the space, making it feel airy and bright.

2. Use Mirrors Strategically

Mirrors are your best friend when it comes to visually expanding a small bathroom. Place a large mirror on one wall or use mirrored tiles to create the illusion of depth. Mirrors reflect light and make the room feel larger than it actually is.

3. Keep It Clutter-Free

A cluttered bathroom feels smaller, so keep things tidy and organised. Install shelves or cabinets to store toiletries and towels. Consider wall-mounted storage to free up floor space. The less clutter you have, the more spacious the room will feel.

4. Choose a Floating Vanity

A floating vanity is a sleek and modern choice for a small bathroom. It creates the illusion of more floor space because you can see more of the floor beneath it. Plus, it adds a touch of elegance to the room.

5. Opt for a Glass Shower Enclosure

If possible, choose a glass shower enclosure instead of a shower curtain or opaque doors. Glass allows you to see through to the back of the shower, giving the impression of a larger area. It also allows light to flow freely.

6. Use Vertical Space

Don’t forget to make the most of your vertical space. Install tall cabinets or shelves that reach the ceiling to maximise storage without taking up valuable floor space. This draws the eye upward, making the room feel taller.

7. Select the Right Lighting

Proper lighting can make a small bathroom feel more spacious. Install bright, evenly distributed lighting fixtures to eliminate shadows. Consider adding a skylight or a well-placed window to bring in natural light.

8. Minimise Patterns

Avoid overwhelming patterns or busy wallpaper in a small bathroom. They can make the space feel chaotic and cramped. Instead, choose simple, subtle patterns or solid colours for a more open and serene atmosphere.

9. Install a Pocket Door

In tight spaces, a traditional swinging door can be a hindrance. Opt for a pocket door that slides into the wall when open. This not only saves space but also adds a modern touch to your bathroom.

10. Go for a Frameless Shower

Frameless shower enclosures create a seamless and open look. Without bulky frames, your line of sight isn’t interrupted, making the bathroom appear more spacious.

11. Consider a Wall-Hung Toilet

Wall-hung toilets are not only stylish but also space-saving. By mounting the toilet on the wall, you free up valuable floor space, giving the illusion of a larger bathroom. Plus, the empty space beneath the toilet is easier to clean, adding to the overall cleanliness of the room.

12. Use Large Format Tiles

Opt for larger tiles on both the floor and walls. Large format tiles have fewer grout lines, which can visually expand the space. Additionally, using the same tiles on both the floor and walls creates a seamless look that tricks the eye into perceiving a larger area.

13. Incorporate Curved Shapes

Incorporating curves into your bathroom design can soften the edges and make the space feel more open. Consider a curved vanity or bathtub to break up the straight lines and add a touch of elegance.

14. Install Recessed Shelving or Niches

Recessed shelving or niches in the shower area not only provide storage but also create depth. These built-in features add visual interest and make the walls appear less flat, enhancing the perception of space.

15. Use Transparent or Lucite Furniture

If you have space for a chair or a stool in your bathroom, choose transparent or lucite furniture. These pieces are see-through and virtually disappear, making the room feel less cluttered.

16. Apply a High Gloss Finish

Consider a high-gloss finish for bathroom surfaces, such as cabinets or countertops. Glossy surfaces reflect light more effectively, making the space brighter and appear larger.

17. Opt for Open Shelving

Open shelving, as opposed to closed cabinets, can give your bathroom an open and airy feel. Display neatly folded towels and decorative items to add a touch of personality while keeping the space visually uncluttered.

18. Use Frameless Mirrors with Beveled Edges

Frameless mirrors with bevelled edges add a touch of sophistication to your bathroom while enhancing the illusion of space. The bevelled edges catch and reflect light beautifully.

19. Choose a Monochromatic Colour Scheme

A monochromatic colour scheme, where you stick to variations of a single colour, creates a cohesive and visually expansive look. Combine different shades and textures of the same colour to add depth without overwhelming the space.

20. Install Horizontal Lines

Incorporate horizontal lines into your bathroom design. This can be achieved through horizontal tiles or a horizontal stripe of paint. Horizontal lines give the perception of width, making the room feel wider.

In conclusion, making a small bathroom feel bigger is all about creating optical illusions and maximising space. By using light colours, mirrors, clever storage solutions, and thoughtful design choices, you can transform your compact bathroom into a welcoming and spacious oasis.