A bathroom is one of the most used rooms in a house, which is why it is important to make it livable and comfortable. A small bathroom can make it difficult to move around from the shower to the toilet or the sink, and it can make it hard to find storage space. Without the spaces to store bathroom items, the space can quickly become cluttered and messy. While it can be challenging to know how to maximize space in a small bathroom, there are many ways to make the room feel bigger and more open. This blog will give you several ideas on how to maximize space in a small bathroom within a budget.
Ways to Maximize Space in a Small Bathroom
1. Space-Saving Layout Design
The layout design in small bathrooms are very important to helping it feel less cramped and small. The layout can make all the difference between stumbling over things and squeezing your way to other areas of the room, versus being able to move comfortably and find things easily. Here are some space-saving layout designs to maximize space in a small bathroom:
- Corner Sink or Vanity: Utilize the corners of the bathroom by installing a corner sink or vanity, which takes up less space than traditional designs.
- Pocket or Sliding Doors: Opt for pocket doors or sliding doors instead of swing doors to save space that would otherwise be required for door clearance.
- Compact Towel Racks and Hooks: Install towel racks or hooks on the back of the door to hang towels to save space and avoid using floor space.
- Tall and Narrow Storage Units: Utilize tall and narrow storage units, such as tall cabinets or ladder shelves, to maximize storage capacity while minimizing floor space usage.
2. Clever Storage Solutions
Another challenge beyond layout design for small bathrooms is the problem of finding storage solutions. In order to free up space in the bathroom, you will have to find effective storage solutions that will maximize the space. Here are a couple ideas on how to incorporate more effective storage in your bathroom:
- Built-in Shelving: Built-in shelving and niches offer a sleek and space-efficient solution for storing toiletries, linens, and decorative items without protruding into the room. These recessed storage features can be incorporated into shower walls, above bathtubs, or alongside vanity mirrors to maximize vertical space utilization.
- Over-the-Toilet Storage Cabinets: Utilizing the space above the toilet is a practical way to add storage without sacrificing floor space. Over-the-toilet storage cabinets or shelves come in various designs, including wall-mounted cabinets, ladder shelves, and floating shelves. These vertical storage solutions provide a convenient spot to store extra towels, toiletries, and decorative items while keeping them within arm’s reach.
- Under-Sink Organizers: Installing under-sink organizers, such as pull-out drawers or baskets, makes use of the often under-utilized space beneath the sink for storing cleaning supplies, extra toiletries, or towels.
3. Lighting and Mirrors for Illusion of Space
An important aspect of a bathroom that can have an effect on how spacious it feels is lighting and mirrors. Using large mirrors helps reflect light and visually expand the space. It is especially useful to place the mirror so that it reflects the window and gives the illusion that there are more windows in the room. Strategic placement of lighting fixtures can also brighten up the room and make it feel bigger. You can opt for brighter white lights to lift the mood, rather than darker, warmer lights.
4. Plumbing Considerations for Small Bathrooms
Small bathrooms present unique challenges when it comes to plumbing due to limited space and layout constraints. Some of the common challenges include the following:
- Limited space for plumbing features
- Accessibility and maneuverability
- Ventilation and drainage
To overcome the challenges posed by plumbing in small bathrooms, innovative space-saving plumbing fixtures are available:
- Wall-mounted toilets and sinks to free up floor space
- Compact yet efficient shower and bath designs
- Concealed plumbing to minimize visual clutter
By addressing plumbing considerations, you can optimize the functionality and aesthetics of your small bathroom while maximizing available space and minimizing installation challenges.
Choose S&B Plumbing for Plumbing Needs
Whether you’re in the process of building your home or you want a bathroom remodel, S&B Plumbing is here to help. We can execute your plans to free up space in your bathroom and make it feel bigger. We also provide plumbing repairs including faucets, garbage disposal, and toilet repairs. Contact us and get your appointment scheduled today.
5. Finishing Touches and Decor
While the design layout and storage space are important factors to consider with small bathrooms, the aesthetics and decor can make a difference, as well. Light paint colors and colors of towels or decor can instantly brighten the room and make it feel bigger. Keeping decor to a minimum can also help it feel less cluttered. Simple decor like a small plant or artwork can take the attention away from the small space and focus it on the particular item. Adding your own personal touches takes a cramped bathroom and makes it an enjoyable space.
