Despite the fact that bathrooms are undoubtedly a key component of the home, they are often not allocated the square footage they deserve. We’d say that’s one of the biggest bathroom fails out there. Whether it’s a temporary apartment or your forever home, there’s a good chance your cramped bathroom isn’t living up to its full potential. The good news is that with a little creativity, you can transform your small space into a functional bathroom oasis. Here are five ways to make your small bathroom look bigger.
1. Colour Scheme
When it comes to colour in your small bathroom, experts agree that you have two options. The first and more popular option is to commit to a white or offwhite colour scheme. Painting your walls a light colour can make your room look both brighter and more spacious, especially when paired with other white and grey accents. Consistent colour will create continuity in the room, contributing to the appearance of open space.
Conversely, many designers suggest using this small space to experiment with colour and bold patterns. Accent walls, unique tiles, and fun wallpaper will all add visual interest to the room. While this trick might not make your space look bigger, it will distract from its limited size. Whatever your decision, don’t forget also have your ceiling painted. Painting the ceiling the same colour as your walls also helps create the illusion of more space.
The best part about having a small bathroom? The fact that a painter and tile installation specialist can have this portion of the project wrapped up in just a couple of days, leaving you with a brand new look in no time at all.
2. Strategic Storage
One of the worst things about a small bathroom is the lack of storage. Between towels and toiletries, your bathroom has to be able to hold and hide a wide variety of products. Because conventional storage options – namely a large vanity – aren’t an option for most small bathrooms, many homeowners choose to invest in customized storage solutions.
A handyman or cabinetry expert can create shelving for all the room’s available nooks and crannies. Consider having shelves installed above and next to the toilet, along the corners of the room, built into your shower, or above your vanity to free up counter space. One tip designers keep repeating is to embrace all the vertical space you can find, and the best way to do so is with custom wall units.
3. Fixtures and Faucets
In the case of a powder room, the fixture that likely takes up the most room will be your vanity. Luckily, vanities now come in a variety of styles and shapes perfect for unconventional spaces. Sinks are built slimmer and longer to fit into narrower countertops. A plumber can not only retrofit wall mounted faucets to maximize counter space but also set up a wall-hung toilet with the tank built into the wall. All of these options will maximize your available space.
For many people, the most important feature in a full bathroom is the shower. The shower helps you wake up in the morning and destress after a long day, meaning you’ll want to consult with a remodelling expert to determine the best option for your space.
One trick is to have a glass installation expert put in a glass panel instead of relying on a shower curtain. This not only takes up less room physically than a shower curtain but it will also create continuity in the space. Similarly, if you’re taking on a more intensive renovation, opt for a built-in curbless shower. Not only do these options take up minimal room, but they can also be extremely aesthetically pleasing.
4. Lighting
Lighting is not only vital for creating ambience, but it also has a huge impact on the perceived size of a room. If you’re lucky enough to have a window in your small bathroom, use mirrors to maximize the amount of natural light in the space. Alternatively, if your room has high ceilings, have an electrician install pendant lights above the vanity. These features will lead the eye upwards, drawing your attention towards the open space above. Overall, even without natural light or high ceilings, having an electrician install a couple of extra pot lights can make everything appear brighter, cleaner, and above all, roomier.
Hopefully, with these tips, you’ll no longer dread your morning routine or feel embarrassed when guests ask to use the bathroom. Connect with a bathroom remodelling specialist now and you’ll soon discover how a minor small bathroom renovation project can do wonders for both the aesthetic and function of your space.
Article Updated June 2022.
